“Faith With Evidence Part I”

 “Also in time past, when Saul was king over us, thou wast he that leddest out and broughtest in Israel: and the LORD said to thee, Thou shalt feed my people Israel, and thou shalt be a captain over Israel.” (2 Samuel 5:2)

Background

David has brought the tribes of Israel to follow him as King. As we look back to Saul’s incessant need to kill David, we see the difference in Faith.

The Beginning

The failure in Israel was to replace God with a King. They were, replacing God with what they saw in the world around them. God was displeased with this idea, and he told them so. Even after telling them the consequence of a King, God allowed them to do as they saw fit. This does not mean God said I agree, far from it, he will let us destroy ourselves. (1 Samuel 8)

For Saul, his son Jonathan had taken the lead in the war on the Philistines. Jonathan through his courage and faith that God will be with him. As Jonathan and his armor bearer set out on a mission to show up in the middle of the Philistine garrison; Jonathan literally plows the Philistines under. He scares them so much, the Philistines start to see an Israeli behind every bush. So much so that the Philistines begin to kill each other, then run for their lives. Saul was sitting under a pomegranate tree. He wasn’t thinking. Saul called for the Priest, not to seek God’s commands, but to seek what Saul wanted to do. When the going got tough, Saul just sat around. Saul did not have faith. (1 Samuel 14)

Stay Tuned…

“Things Are Looking Up”

 “Then came all the tribes of Israel to David unto Hebron, and spake, saying, Behold, we are thy bone and thy flesh.” (2 Samuel 5:1)

Background

David was aware that he had been anointed by Samuel to be King of Israel. “Then Samuel took the horn of oil, and anointed him in the midst of his brethren: and the Spirit of the LORD came upon David from that day forward. So Samuel rose up, and went to Ramah.” (1 Samuel 16:13)

From this point till now David followed the directions God provided to him. David could have killed Saul, but David knew that was God’s job. David could have killed Nabal, but God, through Abigail, again tells David that is God’s job.

With the death of Saul and Jonathan, David continues to wait patiently for God. God delivers Israel to David.

Faith

Faith is a central tenet of Christianity. Unfortunately, it is sometimes not well defined.

For Example: There are people who will handle rattle snakes as a show of faith. It isn’t a show a faith, it is a temptation (from a human perspective) of God. They are trying to show how they are the intercessor for God. Note: If a rattle snake bites you, you will not die in most cases.

There is an argument among Atheists and “Christian’s in Name Only” that say “Faith is belief without evidence”. Nothing could be further from the truth. Faith is belief with evidence.

The entire Bible is full of evidence of what was, and points to what will be. There are many who will argue your Faith, that is why you need to build the evidence of your Faith.

From Genesis to Revelations you just have to look.

Stay Tuned…

“Evil Reaffirms Christianity”

We all sin and come short of the glory of God.

“Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life.”(Proverbs 4:23)

I have spent a great deal of prayer before bringing this to light. I’m sure many have listened to the videos or podcasts about the Ravi Zacharias scandal. I took my time to read the accusations from many other people. The Ravi Zacharias scandal is true. What you as a Christian can take away from this is in the Frank Turek podcast. Listen to the entire thing.

https://youtu.be/oCka2ANeWAU

“Murder of Ishbosheth”

 “Ishbosheth Saul’s son was forty years old when he began to reign over Israel, and reigned two years. But the house of Judah followed David.” (2 Samuel 2:10)

Background

Abner had grown to be the military leader of King Saul. With the death of Saul and his son’s that fought with him, there was only Ishbosheth left of Saul’s son’s. Ishbosheth was far from a warrior. A 40 year old who couldn’t be bothered to go to war along side his father and brothers, but he could accept being named King. Being King, Ishbosheth was not required to listen to Abner, Ishbosheth was too lazy and cowardly to fight.

Why Murder?

The Murder of Ishbosheth is premeditated. The Murders are Baanah and Rechab. Both Baanah and Rechab are Benjamanites from Saul’s tribe, as was Ishbosheth. When a power vacuum exists someone is always waiting to fill the void.

Ishbosheth should have been in the field with his warriors, or in discussions with David. Instead, he lounges in his bed enjoying the lavish life of a King. Abner is dead, there is no more protection for Ishbosheth. The remaining line of Saul’s Kingship is only Ishbosheth and Mephibosheth.

Mephibosheth, is Jonathan’s son. “And Jonathan, Saul’s son, had a son that was lame of his feet. He was five years old when the tidings came of Saul and Jonathan out of Jezreel, and his nurse took him up, and fled: and it came to pass, as she made haste to flee, that he fell, and became lame. And his name was Mephibosheth.” (2 Samuel 4:4)

Mephibosheth is only about 7 years old at this point, and lame. He is far from being able to lead a tribe. With Ishbosheth as the only adult leader, eliminating him will leave a hole that Baanah and Rechab hope to be able to fill.

The Murder

Baanah and Rechab go into Ishbosheth’s bed room in the middle of the day and stab him to death. They do not try to hide the murder, instead they escape with the head of Ishbosheth. They take the head to prove to David that they had done the deed.

What they Expected

“And they brought the head of Ishbosheth unto David to Hebron, and said to the king, Behold the head of Ishbosheth the son of Saul thine enemy, which sought thy life; and the LORD hath avenged my lord the king this day of Saul, and of his seed.” (2 Samuel 4:8)

They were expecting a reward and probably a promotion from David.

What they Received

“9And David answered Rechab and Baanah his brother, the sons of Rimmon the Beerothite, and said unto them, As the LORD liveth, who hath redeemed my soul out of all adversity,

10When one told me, saying, Behold, Saul is dead, thinking to have brought good tidings, I took hold of him, and slew him in Ziklag, who thought that I would have given him a reward for his tidings:

11How much more, when wicked men have slain a righteous person in his own house upon his bed? shall I not therefore now require his blood of your hand, and take you away from the earth?

12And David commanded his young men, and they slew them, and cut off their hands and their feet, and hanged them up over the pool in Hebron. But they took the head of Ishbosheth, and buried it in the sepulchre of Abner in Hebron.” (2 Samuel 4:9-12)

Although Ishbosheth may not be the most intelligent, or even possess leadership skills he is still righteous in the eyes of David. God decides when a life is taken. In this case, the life was not taken in war, it was taken in peace by greed. David had them killed and their greed put on display for all of Hebron to see.

Stay Tuned…

“Assassins in Hebron”

 “And Abner said unto David, I will arise and go, and will gather all Israel unto my lord the king, that they may make a league with thee, and that thou mayest reign over all that thine heart desireth. And David sent Abner away; and he went in peace.” (2 Samuel 3:21)

Background

Abner has abdicated his control over Israel with the blessings of the Elders of Israel and by joining in league with David has all but guaranteed David’s crown. It is a peaceful transition. Sort of.

Joab

“And, behold, the servants of David and Joab came from pursuing a troop, and brought in a great spoil with them: but Abner was not with David in Hebron; for he had sent him away, and he was gone in peace.” (2 Samuel 3:22)

The gossips of Hebron are quick to tell Joab of Abner’s meeting with David. Joab is unhappy that he was not there for the meeting, and he tells David so.

“24 Then Joab came to the king, and said, What hast thou done? behold, Abner came unto thee; why is it that thou hast sent him away, and he is quite gone?

25 Thou knowest Abner the son of Ner, that he came to deceive thee, and to know thy going out and thy coming in, and to know all that thou doest.” (2 Samuel 3:24-25)

Joab is certainly not the type of person that would trust Abner, especially since Abner had killed Joab’s brother Asahel. Joab’s anger gets the best of him.

“26And when Joab was come out from David, he sent messengers after Abner, which brought him again from the well of Sirah: but David knew it not.

27And when Abner was returned to Hebron, Joab took him aside in the gate to speak with him quietly, and smote him there under the fifth rib, that he died, for the blood of Asahel his brother.” (2 Samuel 3:26-27)

David had felt the same sort of anger when he was confronted by the man Nabal. Had it not been for Abigail David may have killed him in anger, but he didn’t. David let God dispense vengeance. Joab had vengeance on his mind and he ignored God. Patience is one of the issues we all face. When we strike out at someone without God’s permission, we are going to face the consequence.

“The words of his mouth were smoother than butter, but war was in his heart: his words were softer than oil, yet were they drawn swords.” (Psalms 55:21)

Joab and his family will pay.

Stay Tuned…

“Meanwhile Back in Hebron”

 Ishbosheth and Abner are arguing about who is in charge. Meanwhile Back in Hebron, David and his house is busy having babies..and waiting.

Messages

“And Abner sent messengers to David on his behalf, saying, Whose is the land? saying also, Make thy league with me, and, behold, my hand shall be with thee, to bring about all Israel unto thee.” (2 Samuel 3:12)

Abner knew that things in the house of Saul were in shambles. Abner begins to plot his own escape by joining with David.

“13And he said, Well; I will make a league with thee: but one thing I require of thee, that is, Thou shalt not see my face, except thou first bring Michal Saul’s daughter, when thou comest to see my face.

14And David sent messengers to Ishbosheth Saul’s son, saying, Deliver me my wife Michal, which I espoused to me for an hundred foreskins of the Philistines.” (2 Samuel 3:13-14)

David responds to Abner setting the terms “bring Michal Saul’s daughter”. You remember her, “Wherefore David arose and went, he and his men, and slew of the Philistines two hundred men; and David brought their foreskins, and they gave them in full tale to the king, that he might be the king’s son in law. And Saul gave him Michal his daughter to wife.” (1 Samuel 18:27)

Michal was David’s first wife and she had worked hard to keep her father from killing David. After David had escaped, Saul gave Michal, David’s wife, to Phalti the son of Laish. (1 Samuel 25:44) David wants her back.

David sends the same message to Ishbosheth, “And David sent messengers to Ishbosheth Saul’s son, saying, Deliver me my wife Michal, which I espoused to me for an hundred foreskins of the Philistines.” (2 Samuel 3:14)

Ishbosheth sends Michal with her present husband following and crying about how he is losing his wife, but Abner meets them and tells her husband to go back, alone. It is easy to see here that Ishbosheth thought he was involved in a league between himself and David, this is not so.

“17And Abner had communication with the elders of Israel, saying, Ye sought for David in times past to be king over you:

18Now then do it: for the LORD hath spoken of David, saying, By the hand of my servant David I will save my people Israel out of the hand of the Philistines, and out of the hand of all their enemies.

19And Abner also spake in the ears of Benjamin: and Abner went also to speak in the ears of David in Hebron all that seemed good to Israel, and that seemed good to the whole house of Benjamin.

20So Abner came to David to Hebron, and twenty men with him. And David made Abner and the men that were with him a feast.” (2 Samuel 3:17-20)

Abner is in effect, replacing the leadership of Saul’s house and has control over the elders of Israel. With that control, Abner realizes the common people of Israel will follow where ever the elders lead them.

David is now the King of Israel.

Stay Tuned…

“The Changing Tide”

 Changing tides are generally predictable in coastal areas. Depending on where you are they are also not easily visible. In other areas you can easily see it. This applies to life. Changes in our life are often not easily perceived, sometimes it is readily seen and felt.

For King David, the changing tides of his life have been a roller coaster of changing circumstances. He learned the lessons slowly and quickly. Now we see him going from an inconsequential little boy, to a much more important figure in Israel.

The Struggle

“Now there was long war between the house of Saul and the house of David: but David waxed stronger and stronger, and the house of Saul waxed weaker and weaker.” (2 Samuel 3:1)

If we think about the house of David we can see that they are not just growing in population of kin, but in families that are willing and happy to follow David. They trust David because he is trusting God. His faith is becoming infectious among Israel.

The house of Saul has gone in the opposite direction. The leadership, Saul, Jonathan, and Saul’s other son’s had been killed in the war with the Philistines. The only remaining leadership was Ishbosheth and Abner. Breaking it down further, Ishbosheth was a puppet in Saul’s house, the real leader was Abner.

The Division in Saul’s House.

Leadership

In every organization there are two types of leaders, the Formal Leader, and the Informal Leader. The Formal Leader, whether it is a CEO, Church Pastor, or the owner of a Hot Dog Stand; their authority may come from the Board of Directors, Elders, or from the ownership of their business. Their is a hierarchy of power and control within the Formal Leadership.

The Informal Leader is a completely different creature. They achieve their authority through personal relationships, by achieving trust, and exemplifying capability. People, including Formal Leaders will follow an Informal Leader.

Ishbosheth is the Formal Leader in the house of Saul and Israel. Ishbosheth’s authority is from the succession from his father Saul. Abner is both a Formal and Informal Leader. Abner’s authority comes from Ishbosheth, but Abner uses his Informal Leadership role to take control of Saul’s house.

The Accusation

Ishbosheth is afraid of Abner. Abner is physically stronger, in the eyes of Saul’s followers he has demonstrated his leadership, and maintains political control. Ishbosheth assumes he can not physically take control from Abner, but he has a plan to politically damage Abner’s control.

“And Saul had a concubine, whose name was Rizpah, the daughter of Aiah: and Ishbosheth said to Abner, Wherefore hast thou gone in unto my father’s concubine?” (2 Samuel 3:7)

There is the accusation, Abner, according to Ishbosheth has slept with Saul’s concubine. Ishbosheth assumes that this is Abner’s violation of a moral law. We have to define the relationship between Rizpah and Saul to understand the connection to Ishbosheth and Abner.

The idea of a concubine is not uncommon. The best explanation can be found HERE. The thought here is that Rizpah is the property of Saul and by inheritance is now the property of Ishbosheth. The accusation is Abner has violated Ishbosheth’s property.

Abner, neither affirms, nor denies any involvement. What we don’t have is any statement from Rizpah.

Abner does respond to Ishbosheth. “Then was Abner very wroth for the words of Ishbosheth, and said, Am I a dog’s head, which against Judah do shew kindness this day unto the house of Saul thy father, to his brethren, and to his friends, and have not delivered thee into the hand of David, that thou chargest me to day with a fault concerning this woman?” (1 Samuel 3:8)

Whether the accusation is true or not, does not matter in this case. Ishbosheth and Abner are both prisoners of their own ambition. Abner, clings to his ambition and looks for another route.

Stay Tuned…

“Asahel”

 Asahel, in Hebrew is עֲשָׂה־אֵ֖ל, it means “God has Made”.

Background

At the end of the contest at the Pool of Gibeon, the contest turned into a full battle. Abner leading Israel and Joab leading David’s servants.

“And there was a very sore battle that day; and Abner was beaten, and the men of Israel, before the servants of David.” (2 Samuel 2:17)

The Chase

Abner is on the run. Hot on his heels is Asahel. Asahel is the nephew of David. “And there were three sons of Zeruiah there, Joab, and Abishai, and Asahel: and Asahel was as light of foot as a wild roe.” (2 Samuel 2:18) Asahel is faster than Abner, but Abner was a more experienced warrior.

Asahel was locked on Abner like a heat seeking missile.

“And Asahel pursued after Abner; and in going he turned not to the right hand nor to the left from following Abner.” (2 Samuel 2:19)

Abner sees Asahel following him. Abner knows who he is, but asks him “Then Abner looked behind him, and said, Art thou Asahel? And he answered, I am.” (2 Samuel 2:20)

Abner now knows who his pursuer is. Not only is Asahel David’s nephew, he is also Joab’s nephew. Abner does not want to be responsible for Asahel’s injury or death. Abner warns Asahel to attack one of the younger men.

“And Abner said to him, Turn thee aside to thy right hand or to thy left, and lay thee hold on one of the young men, and take thee his armour. But Asahel would not turn aside from following of him.” (2 Samuel 2:21)

Although Asahel is fast, he hasn’t thought this chase to its conclusion. Abner once again tells him to stop the chase, but Asahel refuses. Then Abner stops and rams the butt end of his spear through Asahel.

“Howbeit he refused to turn aside: wherefore Abner with the hinder end of the spear smote him under the fifth rib, that the spear came out behind him; and he fell down there, and died in the same place: and it came to pass, that as many as came to the place where Asahel fell down and died stood still.” (2 Samuel 2:23)

Stay tuned…

“The Pool of Gibeon”

 “And Joab the son of Zeruiah, and the servants of David, went out, and met together by the pool of Gibeon: and they sat down, the one on the one side of the pool, and the other on the other side of the pool.” (2 Samuel 2:13)

Background

“But Abner the son of Ner, captain of Saul’s host, took Ishbosheth the son of Saul, and brought him over to Mahanaim;” (2 Samuel 2:8)

Abner, the military leader of Saul’s army, anointed Ishbosheth as King, then took him far enough away from David’s army to buy time to reequip and prepare the army for war.

David is in Hebron as commanded by God. David is the King of Judah, the captain of his military force is Joab. David’s army waits for guidance from God.

The Meeting at the Pool of Gibeon

Abner had chosen the Pool of Gibeon as the place of battle. Gibeon was controlled by the tribe of Benjamin where Saul had support. This was foretold at Jacob’s deathbed in Egypt, “Benjamin shall ravin as a wolf: in the morning he shall devour the prey, and at night he shall divide the spoil.” (Genesis 49:27) Abner had picked the place and invited Joab to meet there.

Joab eagerly agreed. “And Joab the son of Zeruiah, and the servants of David, went out, and met together by the pool of Gibeon: and they sat down, the one on the one side of the pool, and the other on the other side of the pool.” (2 Samuel 2:13)

12 Vs 12

Abner suggests that 12 of his men will “play” a game with 12 of David’s men. It is one on one combat, more of a sport than a real battle. “And Abner said to Joab, Let the young men now arise, and play before us. And Joab said, Let them arise.” (2 Samuel 2:14)

What happens is more of a mass suicide.

“15Then there arose and went over by number twelve of Benjamin, which pertained to Ishbosheth the son of Saul, and twelve of the servants of David.

16And they caught every one his fellow by the head, and thrust his sword in his fellow’s side; so they fell down together: wherefore that place was called Helkathhazzurim, which is in Gibeon.” (2 Samuel 2:15-16)

A very bloody battle that ended in a draw.

Conclusion

This is not the end of conflict within Israel. The battle at the Pond of Gibeon is just the beginning. But, it is certainly a wasteful situation. Ishbosheth’s general Abner had caused the battle through his aggression. David’s general Joab certainly did not withdraw. If we listen to the ancient historian Josephus (Which I will discuss later) it may have resulted in an agreed group destruction.

The battle will continue.

Stay tuned…

“Ishbosheth”

 Ish-bosheth is a Hebrew name meaning “Man of Shame”.

Two Kings

Saul and his son’s were killed in battle with the Philistines. A leadership vacuum has been created for Israel. We know that Saul had been anointed by God to be the first king, but this did not pass on to his children, or other family members. It was when God anointed David to be king that a succession had been established. David did not immediately become king, God had a plan that was still in progresss.

Ishbosheth, was Saul’s only remaining son. He was not a child, he was a 40 year old man. The question is, why wasn’t he present in the battle with his father? Using a military term, was he more interested in being “in the rear with the gear”, or perhaps more interested is staying in the comfort of King Saul’s palace?

Although a King is a King, responsible for economic, political, and military matters. There are others who operate under a King and often take control, but not responsibility. For Ishbosheth, this comes in the form of Abner. Abner was Saul’s military commander. In the court of Saul, Abner was the second in command of Israel. As with all the other Kingdoms around Israel, this problem has existed into the current world. Court intrigue is always a problem.

The difference between King Ishbosheth and King David is God. David knows he was already anointed to replace Saul as the King of Israel, but he had the patience and faith to do what God had told him. For now, David is the King of the tribe of Judah, and others from other tribes come to follow him.

“10Ishbosheth Saul’s son was forty years old when he began to reign over Israel, and reigned two years. But the house of Judah followed David.

11And the time that David was king in Hebron over the house of Judah was seven years and six months.”

Things will change.

Stay Tuned…

“Achar David”

 “And it came to pass after this, that David enquired of the LORD, saying, Shall I go up into any of the cities of Judah? And the LORD said unto him, Go up. And David said, Whither shall I go up? And he said, Unto Hebron.” (2 Samuel 2:1)

Background

Saul and Jonathon had been killed leading Israel. Samuel had anointed Saul as the first King of Israel. Samuel had also anointed David to be Saul’s successor. The Kingdoms surrounding Israel had a succession that stayed within a family group. If the King dies, a Queen, or Prince would assume control of the Kingdom. There was no family connection between Saul and David.

Where to Go

David’s question about where he should go was not open-ended, but more directed, “Shall I go up into any of the cities of Judah?” David knew he had been anointed by Samuel as King of all Israel, he was not in a hurry to take that position. David is looking to God for direction.

God tells David to “Go up” into Judah, and David asked further, “Whither shall I go up?”. God replied, “Unto Hebron.”

David took God at his word. He packed up his family and followers to Hebron and settled his followers in the cities surrounding Hebron. The people of Hebron anointed him King of Judah.

Jabeshgilead

The first time we hear about Jabeshgilead is during the time of the Judges when Jephthah delivered Gilead from the Ammonites. The area of Gilead had been under constant pressure from the Ammonites. With Israel wanting a King, the countries around Israel realize there is unrest among the Tribes of Israel. Saul was anointed King of Israel. Saul’s first battle was with the Ammonites, and God delivered the Ammonites into Saul’s hand.

When Saul died, the people of Jabeshgilead buried Saul.

“5And David sent messengers unto the men of Jabeshgilead, and said unto them, Blessed be ye of the LORD, that ye have shewed this kindness unto your lord, even unto Saul, and have buried him.

6And now the LORD shew kindness and truth unto you: and I also will requite you this kindness, because ye have done this thing.

7Therefore now let your hands be strengthened, and be ye valiant: for your master Saul is dead, and also the house of Judah have anointed me king over them.” (2 Samuel 2:5-7)

Stay Tuned…

“David’s Lament”

 “And David lamented with this lamentation over Saul and over Jonathan his son:” (2 Samuel 1:17)

Introduction

A lament is a cry of extreme sorry. A lamentation is a poem or song, in the modern world the Laments of the Irish and Scottish are some of my favorites. David is mourning the death of God’s anointed king for Israel. David, of course, realized the evil of Saul; David also saw the protection of Saul was because God had selected Saul for a reason.

The Following is the David’s Lament for Saul and Jonathan.

David’s Lament

18(Also he bade them teach the children of Judah the use of the bow: behold, it is written in the book of Jasher.)

19The beauty of Israel is slain upon thy high places: how are the mighty fallen!

20Tell it not in Gath, publish it not in the streets of Askelon; lest the daughters of the Philistines rejoice, lest the daughters of the uncircumcised triumph.

21Ye mountains of Gilboa, let there be no dew, neither let there be rain, upon you, nor fields of offerings: for there the shield of the mighty is vilely cast away, the shield of Saul, as though he had not been anointed with oil.

22From the blood of the slain, from the fat of the mighty, the bow of Jonathan turned not back, and the sword of Saul returned not empty.

23Saul and Jonathan were lovely and pleasant in their lives, and in their death they were not divided: they were swifter than eagles, they were stronger than lions.

24Ye daughters of Israel, weep over Saul, who clothed you in scarlet, with other delights, who put on ornaments of gold upon your apparel.

25How are the mighty fallen in the midst of the battle! O Jonathan, thou wast slain in thine high places.

26I am distressed for thee, my brother Jonathan: very pleasant hast thou been unto me: thy love to me was wonderful, passing the love of women.

27How are the mighty fallen, and the weapons of war perished! (2 Samuel 1:18-27)

“The Messenger”

 “Now it came to pass after the death of Saul, when David was returned from the slaughter of the Amalekites, and David had abode two days in Ziklag;” (2 Samuel 1:1)

Background

David had returned to Ziklag. He had returned the kidnapped people and their stuff, as well as, a great deal more. God had once again provided for David.

The Messenger

While still in Ziklag a man came to David, who’s clothes were torn, and he was covered in dirt.

“And David said unto him, From whence comest thou? And he said unto him, Out of the camp of Israel am I escaped.” (2 Samuel 1:3)

Of course David wanted to know how the battle between Saul and the Philistines had gone. The messenger told David that he had “by chance” upon mount Gilboa, and that he had seen Saul leaning on his spear. There were chariots and horsemen after Saul.

The messenger continues. When Saul saw me he called me and asked who I was. I told Saul I am an Alalekite. And Saul asked me to kill him because he was in anguish. So I killed him, because I was sure he would die. I then took his crown and his bracelet and brought them to you.

“Then David took hold on his clothes, and rent them; and likewise all the men that were with him:

And they mourned, and wept, and fasted until even, for Saul, and for Jonathan his son, and for the people of the LORD, and for the house of Israel; because they were fallen by the sword.” (2 Samuel 1:11-12)

David asked the messenger, “Why were you not afraid to kill the LORD’s anointed? Then David had the messenger killed.

“And David said unto him, Thy blood be upon thy head; for thy mouth hath testified against thee, saying, I have slain the LORD’S anointed.”

Stay Tuned…

The End of Saul

 “Now the Philistines fought against Israel: and the men of Israel fled from before the Philistines, and fell down slain in mount Gilboa.” (1 Samuel 31:1)

Background

Samuel had become old and made his son’s Judges for the people. Sadly, Samuel’s son’s were greedy and only worried about themselves. The people recognized the evil in Samuel’s son’s, the people asked for a king. (1 Samuel 8:1-5)

Samuel was displeased with the idea of a king. Samuel takes the problem to God. God, through Samuel warned the people of the dangers of a king. The people ignored the warning. They were more of the world, wanting a king like everyone else had. (1 Samuel 8:11-18)

That is the way of people, they look all over the world for what will make them happy, and ignore God right in front of them.

God gave them Saul. At first things were looking pretty good. Saul had formed an army and the people were safe. That is until Saul began to fear for his own life and took matters himself and did not heed God. This begins the fall of Saul.

He becomes so fearful and paranoid that he doesn’t trust his most powerful warriors, David and Jonathan. He has wasted so much energy chasing David that he lost sight of the peril outside his own gates. He now knew God had turned his back on him.

Saul is Killed.

As David is returning from saving his kidnapped family, Saul is facing the army of the Philistines. The battle is a Custer/Indian result. Saul falls on his sword. There are many people today who would rather fall on their sword, typically at the wrong time, than continue to resist evil. Saul and two of his son’s are killed in battle, the army of Israel is decimated.

Stay Tuned…

“Balance”

 Background

We find David and 400 men have defeated the entire invading army of Amalekites. He killed everyone save 400 men running away on Camels.

“18And David recovered all that the Amalekites had carried away: and David rescued his two wives.

19And there was nothing lacking to them, neither small nor great, neither sons nor daughters, neither spoil, nor any thing that they had taken to them: David recovered all.

20And David took all the flocks and the herds, which they drave before those other cattle, and said, This is David’s spoil.” (1 Samuel 30:18-20)

David not only rescued all that belonged to him and his army, he brought back more.

This was not David’s doing and he knew it, it was God’s promise fulfilled. David had been losing his balance from the first time Saul threw a spear at him. Every time David fell out of balance God led him back. The problems David has faced come back in the middle of victory.

The Brook

David and his 400 arrive at the brook where 200 of his men had stopped, because they were “faint”. If took the original 600 to move at 25 miles per day for three days, then with no resupply at Ziklag they had to move quickly to rescue the kidnapped families. To be physically “faint” is one thing, to be spiritually “faint” would be something else. It is possible they stopped because they no longer wanted to follow David? We don’t know.

“Then answered all the wicked men and men of Belial, of those that went with David, and said, Because they went not with us, we will not give them ought of the spoil that we have recovered, save to every man his wife and his children, that they may lead them away, and depart.” (1 Samuel 30:22)

The greed of man is manifest.

David replies, “23Then said David, Ye shall not do so, my brethren, with that which the LORD hath given us, who hath preserved us, and delivered the company that came against us into our hand.

24For who will hearken unto you in this matter? but as his part is that goeth down to the battle, so shall his part be that tarrieth by the stuff: they shall part alike.” (1 Samuel 30:23-24)

Leaving 200 behind at the brook was part of God’s plan, which is two fold. Had David pressed on and ordered the 200 to stay with him, his army would have moved slower carrying the faint and supplies with him. The men being left at the brook also shows how God forgives us, no matter how slow we are.

David makes his command to his army a statute, “And it was so from that day forward, that he made it a statute and an ordinance for Israel unto this day.” (1 Samuel 30:25)

David now tours Judah and shares the spoils with them. When God gives to us, we are to give to others.

Stay Tuned…

“The Chase”

 “Then David and the people that were with him lifted up their voice and wept, until they had no more power to weep.” (1 Samuel 30:4)

BACKGROUND

When we first met David he was full of himself. Cute little shepherd boy tending his father’s sheep. He killed a lion. He killed a giant. He played the harp. He killed tens of thousands. He ducked Saul’s spear. He played a mean harp..but I said that already. David followed God. David made a poor choice when he fled to the Philistines to escape from Saul. Now David faces the consequences.

Sadness

David’s men were in debt, they had lost stature in Israel, now they had lost their families and possessions. All of the hope that had put in David was gone. Their sadness turned to anger.

“And David was greatly distressed; for the people spake of stoning him, because the soul of all the people was grieved, every man for his sons and for his daughters: but David encouraged himself in the LORD his God.” (1 Samuel 30:6)

David’s sadness would certainly have turned to anger as well. However, he made a much better choice by turning to God for direction.

“And David enquired at the LORD, saying, Shall I pursue after this troop? shall I overtake them? And he answered him, Pursue: for thou shalt surely overtake them, and without fail recover all.” (1 Samuel 30:8)

The Egyptian

David departed Ziklag in pursuit of the Amalekites and took his army of 600 with him. It had taken 3 days to arrive at Ziklag entirely by foot. They traveled 25 miles per day to get there. They left Ziklag with only the food they had carried.

When David and his army arrive at a brook, 200 of his men were so tired they were not able to cross a small obstacle. That is what stops many of us in the world. So often the smallest obstacle becomes an excuse to stop following God and just sit.

David continues on with his army now reduced to 400 men, not by battle, but by their weakness. David does not tarry to admonish the 200, he keeps on going.

After crossing the brook, David’s men found an Egyptian in a field. David could have coerced the Egyptian with torture and abuse, which is certainly something many with David would have wanted, but David took a different approach.

David showed the Egyptian kindness.

“11And they found an Egyptian in the field, and brought him to David, and gave him bread, and he did eat; and they made him drink water;

12And they gave him a piece of a cake of figs, and two clusters of raisins: and when he had eaten, his spirit came again to him: for he had eaten no bread, nor drunk any water, three days and three nights.” (1 Samuel 30:11-12)

David asks the Egyptian if he knew where the kidnappers had gone. The Egyptian promises to tell David, if David will not harm him, or return him to his master. David agrees. The Egyptian takes David to exactly where the kidnappers are.

David had inspired trust between the Egyptians and himself based on the kindness David had shown.

Stay Tuned…

“Rescue Me!”

 “Now the Philistines gathered together all their armies to Aphek: and the Israelites pitched by a fountain which is in Jezreel.” (1 Samuel 29:1)

BACKGROUND

Saul, King of Israel and the Philistines are now forming for battle. Military formations at that time began with the main body of the army coming first and the King holding the rear position.

As the Princes of the Philistines arrived they were concerned about Hebrew’s being among the King’s bodyguard. We know that David was an important addition to Achish’s kingdom. The fact that David has been running for over 7 years has now left him stuck between Saul and Achish.

David had lied to Achish about his intentions. Although David had killed the inhabitants of Jewish towns, these inhabitants were not friends of Israel. By killing all of the residents, there was no one left to appeal to the Philistines.

With David throughout this ordeal, God was still with him, and had a plan for David’s future. This is God telling us that even through our own ordeals he is still with us.

Go Home David

The Philistine Princes were incensed that their King Achish had allowed David to live in their land, and now, serve as the Kings Bodyguard, Achish had to send David away from the battlefield back to his home in Ziklag.

David and his men rose early in the morning bound toward Ziklag.

David Arrives At Ziklag

When David and his 600 man army had left Ziklag they left their families behind with no guard. Since Ziklag is about 75 miles behind the lines, David possibly felt that it was a safe bet. When David returns a different image is before him.

Ziklag is devastated. The town is burned and the families have been kidnapped. No one was killed, but the Amalekites had burned the town and taken the families away. The Amalekites are the same people God had told Saul to kill them all, now they are invading the land that had been Judah’s.

God Provides a Rescue

Although David was still looking toward God, he has made decisions that are pushing him further from God. Leaving his own people behind to face the Philistines, and seeking comfort in the land of the Philistines, David’s lack of faith has put him in a dangerous situation.

God took David out of the service of the Philistines by having them banish David from fighting in the upcoming battle. It was a rescue. God will provide much more.

Stay Tuned….

“The Witch of Endor”

“And it came to pass in those days, that the Philistines gathered their armies together for warfare, to fight with Israel. And Achish said unto David, Know thou assuredly, that thou shalt go out with me to battle, thou and thy men.” (1 Samuel 28:1)

Background

In 1 Samuel 27, we learn of the weakness of David’s faith. Although, David was wise to find a place of safety for his army and family, his weakness was to not ask God what he should do.

On the other hand, God was with David, even in the land of the Philistines. The Philistines were evil and worshiped any God they felt like. Achish, the King of Gath, was happy to have David in his kingdom. Achish was aware that David had killed tens of thousands of Philistines, while Saul had only killed thousands. Achish wants a warrior like David. Thus begins the politics between Saul, King Achish, and David.

Conflict

“1 And it came to pass in those days, that the Philistines gathered their armies together for warfare, to fight with Israel. And Achish said unto David, Know thou assuredly, that thou shalt go out with me to battle, thou and thy men. 2 And David said to Achish, Surely thou shalt know what thy servant can do. And Achish said to David, Therefore will I make thee keeper of mine head for ever.” (1 Samuel 28:1-2)

Achish has accepted David as his advisor. David responds truthfully, but not completely. David’s response is partial in that he says he is a servant to Achish, but he never says I will always be your servant. David holds his alliance closely toward himself to God. This is where our alliance should always be.

Saul’s Problem

“3 Now Samuel was dead, and all Israel had lamented him, and buried him in Ramah, even in his own city. And Saul had put away those that had familiar spirits, and the wizards, out of the land. 4 And the Philistines gathered themselves together, and came and pitched in Shunem: and Saul gathered all Israel together, and they pitched in Gilboa. 5 And when Saul saw the host of the Philistines, he was afraid, and his heart greatly trembled. 6 And when Saul enquired of the LORD, the LORD answered him not, neither by dreams, nor by Urim, nor by prophets.” (1 Samuel 28:3-6)

Saul is completely alone. Saul prayed to God. God did not answer. Samuel was dead and could not advise Saul. The priests of Israel had been massacred by Saul and they were not around to advise him. David had been chased out of Israel, so he can’t advise Saul. Saul is the only person responsible for what he does. Saul needs a scapegoat. So he turns to the Witch of Endor.

The Witch of Endor

“Then said Saul unto his servants, Seek me a woman that hath a familiar spirit, that I may go to her, and enquire of her. And his servants said to him, Behold, there is a woman that hath a familiar spirit at Endor.” (1 Samuel 28:7)

We do not know much of her past history, but we do know Saul had killed Witches according to the Law of Moses, “18 Thou shalt not suffer a witch to live.” (Exodus 22:18) The Witch of Endor is known to practice Satanic rites to spirits known and unknown.

Now Saul disguised himself and two of his servants to seek the advice of the witch. The Witch of Endor wanted an assurance that the disguised visitor would not harm her. Saul promises to not harm her, he wants her to bring from the dead someone he wishes to speak to. Saul is no longer asking God, he is begging Satan for advice. Satan can only be at once place at a time. Satan seeks us to seek him. So Satan now works through the Witch of Endor, and Saul.

Saul wants the Witch of Endor to bring the Spirit of Samuel back.

The Spirit of Samuel Speaks

“11 Then said the woman, Whom shall I bring up unto thee? And he said, Bring me up Samuel.” (1 Samuel 28:11)

When the witch sees Samuel she speaks aloud “12 And when the woman saw Samuel, she cried with a loud voice: and the woman spake to Saul, saying, Why hast thou deceived me? for thou art Saul.” (1 Samuel 28:12)

With this statement Saul is convinced of her ability to bring back Samuel. Saul was wanting things to be his way. The Witch had seen the spirit of Samuel come up from the Earth. That is not how a prophet like Samuel would have appeared.

“21 Who knoweth the spirit of man that goeth upward, and the spirit of the beast that goeth downward to the earth?” (Ecclesiastes 3:21)

It is not the Spirit of Samuel, it is an evil spirit of Satan to deceive Saul.

“15And Samuel said to Saul, Why hast thou disquieted me, to bring me up? And Saul answered, I am sore distressed; for the Philistines make war against me, and God is departed from me, and answereth me no more, neither by prophets, nor by dreams: therefore I have called thee, that thou mayest make known unto me what I shall do.

16Then said Samuel, Wherefore then dost thou ask of me, seeing the LORD is departed from thee, and is become thine enemy?

17And the LORD hath done to him, as he spake by me: for the LORD hath rent the kingdom out of thine hand, and given it to thy neighbour, even to David:

18Because thou obeyedst not the voice of the LORD, nor executedst his fierce wrath upon Amalek, therefore hath the LORD done this thing unto thee this day.

19Moreover the LORD will also deliver Israel with thee into the hand of the Philistines: and to morrow shalt thou and thy sons be with me: the LORD also shall deliver the host of Israel into the hand of the Philistines.

20Then Saul fell straightway all along on the earth, and was sore afraid, because of the words of Samuel: and there was no strength in him; for he had eaten no bread all the day, nor all the night.” (1 Samuel 28 15:20)

Saul was terrified by the experience. So much so he didn’t even eat. His doom was at hand.

Stay Tuned…

Admonition

 Background

“And David said in his heart, I shall now perish one day by the hand of Saul: there is nothing better for me than that I should speedily escape into the land of the Philistines; and Saul shall despair of me, to seek me any more in any coast of Israel: so shall I escape out of his hand.”

God, through the lessons he taught David, has been teaching us at the same time. The battle with Goliath, the encounters with Saul, the escape to the priests, the escape to the Philistines. All of this was growing David from a shepherd boy to a leader of Israel. Yet, he still has much to learn, and so do we.

Patience

As people we lack patience and so did David. It was through David’s lack of faith (and our’s) that he retreated to the safety of the Philistines. David has retreated with his army and entire family to Gath. Remember Gath was the city that Goliath had come from. Now David finds himself before Achish, the King of Gath.

Intrigue

Saul was now relieved that David had deserted Israel to safety in the lands of the Philistines. Saul will assume that David is not a problem.

Achish, is happy to see David in his country, and is expecting David to be under his control.

“10 And Achish said, Whither have ye made a road to day? And David said, Against the south of Judah, and against the south of the Jerahmeelites, and against the south of the Kenites. 11 And David saved neither man nor woman alive, to bring tidings to Gath, saying, Lest they should tell on us, saying, So did David, and so will be his manner all the while he dwelleth in the country of the Philistines. 12 And Achish believed David, saying, He hath made his people Israel utterly to abhor him; therefore he shall be my servant for ever.” (1 Samuel 26:10-12)

David had asked for any city other than the capital of Gath. It was Achish which gave David a city far from Gath, right up against Israel. The city was now under David’s control with both military and religious control of God. David was free to worship God and keep his men in close relations to God.

In summary, Saul was happy, Achish was happy, and David felt secure.

Stay Tuned…

“Sneaking”

 “And the Ziphites came unto Saul to Gibeah, saying, Doth not David hide himself in the hill of Hachilah, which is before Jeshimon?” (1 Samuel 26:1)

David Knows!

David knows that Saul will continue to chase him with the intent of killing David. David decides to sneak down to where Saul is.

“Then answered David and said to Ahimelech the Hittite, and to Abishai the son of Zeruiah, brother to Joab, saying, Who will go down with me to Saul to the camp? And Abishai said, I will go down with thee.” (1 Samuel 26:6)

Sneaking is Hard!

I was lucky enough, depending on how you define lucky, to be chosen to go through a school taught by Israelis, American, and other foreign military instructors. The school was about how to sneak into a defended location. Some of the ideas was on how to get information and sometimes pick up an enemy for questioning.

It would take from 12 to 48 hours, or more depending on many variables. During that time there is no eating, or drinking. Evacuating human waste was avoided at all times. If you smell bad you might as well blow a whistle.

David on Target!

David and Abishai were right in the middle of Saul’s encampment. They are both within a whisper of Saul. Abishai is willing to kill Saul in the midst of Saul’s guards, but David disagrees.

“And David said to Abishai, Destroy him not: for who can stretch forth his hand against the LORD’S anointed, and be guiltless?” (1 Samuel 26:9)

David remembers the words of Abigail, and it stopped David’s anger. Instead of killing Saul, David had Abishai take Saul’s spear and water vessel.

It is the second time David shows Saul how close he came to being killed. Saul was only saved by the grace of God.

“Then Saul said to David, Blessed be thou, my son David: thou shalt both do great things, and also shalt still prevail. So David went on his way, and Saul returned to his place.” (1 Samuel 26:25)

Stay Tuned…