“Now the Philistines fought against Israel; the Israelites fled before them, and many fell dead on Mount Gilboa. 2 The Philistines were in hot pursuit of Saul and his sons, and they killed his sons Jonathan,Abinadab and Malki-Shua. 3 The fighting grew fierce around Saul, and when the archers overtook him, they wounded him critically. 4 Saul said to his armor-bearer, “Draw your sword and run me through, or these uncircumcised fellows will come and run me through and abuse me.” But his armor-bearer was terrified and would not do it; so Saul took his own sword and fell on it. 5 When the armor-bearer saw that Saul was dead, he too fell on his sword and died with him. 6 So Saul and his three sons and his armor-bearer and all his men died together that same day.” 1 Samuel 31.1-6
It is always significant when a great leader dies. Saul was not necessarily a great leader, but he was the first king of Israel. His rebellion and waywardness from the Lord resulted in him losing favor, the Spirit of God, and the opportunity for his sons to reign on the throne after his death.
In contrast, David had just won a mighty battle. Saul and his sons were being pursued by their enemies. The Lord was not with them as He was with David and his men, who consulted God before their battle. The comparison between the two leaders is stark—one is holy and righteous, obeying God’s commands; the other is self-absorbed, self-reliant, and disobedient to the leading and laws of the Lord. Even though Saul’s son Jonathan was a close friend of David and godly in his own right, Saul’s decisions overshadowed his entire family.
When the Philistines were about to overtake Saul, his sons had already been killed. He asked his armor-bearer to kill him so he would not be captured by the enemy. When the armor-bearer refused, Saul committed suicide by falling on his own sword. What a terrible way to die! It is shameful that Israel’s first king would come to such an end.
God has good plans for those who obey and do what is right. Those who turn away to sin—and Lord knows I have my own share of failings and temptations—will face consequences for their actions. But if we follow in the footsteps of Jesus, loving God and loving our neighbor, reflecting the light of God, and sharing His Good News, we will reap the benefits of abundant life today.
The choice is clear: do we obey God or give in to our own desires? Our ending can either be like Saul’s, or it can be a glorious reflection of a loving and faithful God. How will you choose?
“O Lord, during this time away, it is a blessing to sit, reflect, and walk with You. Thank You for Your power and love. Even when I am weak, Your strength sustains me. Come now, Holy Spirit, find Your way into my heart. Cleanse me from sin, and secure my hope and future in heaven. Call me to greater love and obedience. For you are good and your love endures forever.” Amen