3.24 1 Samuel 27-31

Kristen Van Bueren

3.24.2020

1 Samuel 27-31

These chapters highlight the spectrum of highs and lows during this new time in Israel’s history. After David spared King Saul’s life – for the second time – David knows deep down that Saul will never stop pursuing him. So David flees to live amongst the Philistines, but while out fighting battles, all of David’s wives and children – as well as those of his fighting men – were captured and carried off by foreign nations. His men wanted to put him to death, but David remained faithful to God, fought and recovered all his family and his men’s as well. Meanwhile, Saul is tormented by the fact that God has withdrawn his favor. He uses a medium to conjure up the spirit of the deceased prophet Samuel, who reminds Saul that he is experiencing all his anguish/suffering because of his disobedience of God. And then Samuel tells Saul of his impending death – and the death of his sons.

A key verse that stood out to me from this reading was

1 Samuel 30:6 “And David was greatly distressed, for the people spoke of stoning him, because all the people were bitter in soul, each for his sons and daughters. But David strengthened himself in the LORD his God.” 

The reason this stood out to me because when it seemed like all was lost and even his closest friends were turning on him, David was able to find his strength and comfort in God alone. This is especially impactful during this unique time of uncertainty that we live in.

How will I “Go With God” as a result of this reading? It may seem obvious, but I want to grow so much more in inquiring of the Lord before I make any decision – significant ones of course – but also the mundane ones. Not only that, but during this time that we as humanity are facing amidst the coronavirus – like David – I want to desperately find my source of strength and comfort during these uncertain times in God alone. 

Where do I see Jesus in this reading? Undoubtedly, Jesus felt hard pressed – like all was lost and everyone he loved and invested in was turning their backs on him – those whom he tried to serve were screaming for his crucifixion. And in the garden – when he could have given up and called it quits – Jesus strengthened himself in his Father.