1Chronicles 10:1 – 23:32
Overview
Today’s reading introduces us to King Saul & King David as written after the exile. It begins with Saul who has just taken his life as he is being defeated by the enemy. The narrative quickly moves to king David and the rest of the reading is devoted to King David, son of Jesse. There are many passages that are repeated from our previous readings but again, this is because the account in Chronicles is written after the exile. While the stories are repeated, the accounts have some differences in detail because of the pre & post exile perspective. A good example of this is 1Chronicles 20 where it is revealed that David made extensive preparations for the temple before his death. He saved up construction materials including wood, stone, bronze, gold and silver to be used for the temple. David told the leaders and Solomon to begin construction. This detail was not mentioned in Kings but is included in Chronicles.
Scripture – 1Chronicles 10:13-14
13 Saul died because he was unfaithful to the LORD; he did not keep the word of the LORD and even consulted a medium for guidance, 14 and did not inquire of the LORD. So the LORD put him to death and turned the kingdom over to David son of Jesse.
Observation
Saul Consults The Witch of Endor
Saul, the first appointed King of Israel by God, missed out on many wonderful opportunities because he didn’t seek out the Lord. Saul was unfaithful to God and did not follow his law. Instead of praying to the Lord and asking what he should do when important decision were to be made, Saul looked to other people for guidance. At one point, he went to someone who serves as an intermediary between the living and the dead to find his answers. Saul did not consult God. Because of his unfaithfulness, Saul’s life was met with many unnecessary challenges and sorrow. Ultimately, his life was cut short by God.
Application
When we have problems or need advice, our first source of shelter and guidance should be our Heavenly Father and His Word. Relationships, job responsibilities, personal obligations and our health sometimes seems to be crashing down around us. God wants us to seek him out and rest in Him. He can provide that reassurance and give us the strength we need to deal with these stresses. His Word from the bible can also give us the advice we need for many of our daily concerns. When we seek others for advice and help, without including God, we are missing out on God’s blessing and his rich counsel.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you that you have made a way for us to have fellowship with you. I pray that we include you in all of our decisions and seek your guidance in our daily life.
