1 Chronicles _10

Scripture - What stood out?

 

1 Chronicles 10:13-14 13 So Saul died for his transgression which he committed against the Lord, even against the word of the Lord, which he kept not, and also for asking counsel of one that had a familiar spirit, to inquire of it; 14 And enquired not of the Lord: therefore he slew him, and turned the kingdom unto David the son of Jesse.

 

Observation - What does it say?

 

The chronicler gives a factual step by step account of how Saul and his sons die. The chapter then ends, with this juicy morsel that gives a very straightforward analysis of Saul’s death.

 

Understanding - What does it mean?

 

Saul died because he sinned against the Lord. He did not keep God’s word and even sought the counsel of a different spirit.

 

I am the first to admit I have a soft spot for King Saul. He had such an amazing beginning, didn’t he? He was called and anointed by God through the prophet Samuel. He was even given step by step instructions by God on how to achieve success during some of the most trying moments of his life. 

 

But for Saul, God’s word wasn’t enough.

 

He chose not to trust God.

 

And his penalty was death. 

 

Life Application - How can I apply this to my life today?

 

King Saul reminds me of me. Do you sometimes hear God calling you - follow Me. Listen to Me. And you don’t. I didn’t for many years. King Saul died because he chose not to listen to God. Just like I haven’t. He died because he couldn’t trust God.

 

Just like I couldn’t.

 

The penalty of sin is death and I know I am no better than King Saul. And so in this moment I am grateful to Jesus. I am grateful to the Father. And I am grateful to the Holy Spirit.

 

When You speak, may I listen. When You instruct, may I obey. And when You call, may I follow.I love you Lord. In the name of Jesus do I pray. Amen.

 

-Kenneth Lee