1 Samuel 28 -- Saul's Decline Begins

As the Philistines prepared to fight the Israelites, David's host, Achish, informed him that he'd have to first with the Philistines against his own people.  David cryptically answered, "Then you will see for yourself what your servant can do!"

In the other army, Saul was trying to seek counsel from God, but no answers were forthcoming.  He'd sought the Lord through dreams but none came.  He had no prophet as David did, and David also had a priest with the ephod.  "No matter what means Saul tried, he received no answer from God.  But during most of his life, he didn't want God's will because he wanted to do things his own way.  Is it any wonder that at the end of Saul's career, God deserted him?" my commentary asked.

Saul had expelled all of the spiritists but now decided that he needed one to contact Samuel.  He disguised himself and visited a witch in Endor.  She called up Samuel.  "Samuel did appear, but she was shocked when it happened ... Her surprised loud cry was evidence that Samuel's sudden appearing was something she didn't expect ... Samuel announced that David was the neighbor who would inherit the kingdom.  But the direst news of all was that the next day Saul and his sons would be slain in battle ..."

Saul had been fasting as he tried to contact God, and now he was too weak to travel.  He finally agreed to eat what she had prepared.  "Saul was unprepared to lead, unprepared to fight, and unprepared to die," my commentary concluded.

Father, if I ever stop trying to seek Your face, please get my attention before I end up like Saul.  I want to finish well, remaining in Your will!

Your Brother In Christ,
Gary Ford