SAMUEL: War Again

Life is a battle whether you are a Christian or not, with people and things battling for supremacy in our hearts. The only question is who or what will win the war for the throne? Spirit-filled David is a threat to spirit-less Saul who makes four more attempts on David’s life. The first is thwarted by Jonathon, the second by David’s quick feet, the third with Michal’s help, and finally the Spirit intervenes supernaturally at Naioth. The chapter ends with Saul stripped naked, prophesying, and he’s clearly unfit to be king. Saul’s murderous actions are a response to the threat God poses to his throne. Saul’s rejection of David (God’s anointed) is in reality a rejection of God Himself. Saul wants control and nothing will stand in his way. Just like Saul, God is a threat to my throne. Our hearts are idol-factories, and self-worship is at the core. We want to sit on the throne of our own hearts and lives, and God’s dominion is a threat. When we reject God for salvation, or reject his will, purposes, and commands, we are no different than Saul, and will stop at nothing to retain control. The only antidote is surrender and submission to God, who’s throne cannot be thwarted anyway.