By Many or By Few

The passage begins in the second year of Saul’s reign. The Philistines were oppressing the Israelites, so the Israelites waged war against them; however the Philistines came against them with a large army and surrounded them. Before the battle, Saul had made offerings to the Lord that only the high priest Samuel was suppose to offer. Samuel rebuked Saul for his disobedience, but Saul blamed others for his sin. He was unrepentant and refused to admit his own sin. He was not looking to God so he hid because he did not feel safe. He felt he was cast out of God’s protection and he saw God as his enemy, not his protector. If you find yourself in this place, repent and return to the Lord! Saul then turned to false religion. His son, Jonathan, however, had a confidence in the Lord and was dependent on Him. Jonathan and his armorbearer knew that there is no limitation with the Lord. His armorbearer bore witness to Jonathan’s vision and calling of the Lord. Likewise, we too can encourage those around us and our spiritual leaders by sharing in the vision. Jonathan followed the providence of God and took hints and direction from God. God will guide us as we trust in Him. We must learn to discern what God is doing, even in the smallest details, and not rely on our own understanding. God uses every detail to direct our steps. Jonathan obeyed God’s guidance, and he was confident that the Lord would deliver Israel, by many or by few. Only Jonathan and his armorbearer came to the Philistines, but they all fell before him, and his armorbearer killed them. Their faith inspired the others to join the battle. Fear was replaced by faith, because they knew that nothing restrains the Lord. Click here to listen: By Many or By Few