Lessons from the life of King Saul

Google Maps is a much sought-after app that has become the go-to app while traveling.  It offers directions; the best part is you do not have to take your eyes off the road to see the map.  It speaks out and says much ahead of time whether you have to turn left or right.  If you obey that voice, you will reach your destination!  It is so wonderful to have such a traveling companion!  I was reminded of the verse in Isaiah 30:21 while thinking of the Google App.  The Lord speaks and directs those willing to listen: "Your ears shall hear a word behind you, saying, 'This is the way, walk in it,' whenever you turn to the right hand or whenever you turn to the left."  Saul had the honor of reigning as the first king of the united kingdom of Israel.  God sent His Word through Samuel to direct him.  Initially, Saul was humble, obedient, and respectful of God and His prophet Samuel.  But when success came, he became proud and refused to listen to God and obey Him, which led to his fall!

We can learn many lessons from the life of King Saul, of things we should never do!  Samuel had asked Saul to wait for him, but Saul was impatient and offered a burnt offering, which was the duty of Priests.  Saul worried more about what men thought about him than what God told him to do.  No wonder Solomon later wrote, "The fear of man brings a snare" (Prov. 29:25).  God honors the man who fears Him more than men and takes responsibility for his sin.  Saul disobeyed God in the matter of Amalekites, too, and blamed the people for failing to do what he knew God had commanded.  Saul let the green-eyed monster of jealousy devour his heart.  Instead of rejoicing when David brought victory for Israel, Saul tried to kill David.  Saul allowed his jealousy to consume him entirely and cloud all his decisions.  Saul attacked and killed the servants of the Lord because they had helped David (1 Sam. 22). God honors the man who honors His servants! 

My friend, let us learn our lessons from Saul.  God has given us the indwelling Holy Spirit to counsel and direct us.  If we can be still in God's Presence, our hearts can hear the prompting of the Holy Spirit.  Let our prayer today be, "Teach me your way, LORD, that I may rely on your faithfulness; give me an undivided heart, that I may fear your name" (Psalm 86:11).

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