Saul, the Jeep, and Me

1 Samuel is a great book; I find myself wanting to hurry up and find out what’s next. In today’s reading of 1 Samuel 28, we find Saul terrified as the Philistine army closes in.

Saul asks God what he should do, but God doesn’t answer. Saul takes matters into his own hands, disguises himself (because he’s outlawed mediums), and seeks out a medium, a witch. He gets her to call up Samuel. She does, and is scared when she learns who Saul really is.

Samuel comes up from the ground and gives Saul the bad news.

‘The Lord has done this to you today because you refused to carry out his fierce anger against the Amalekites. What’s more, the Lord will hand you and the army of Israel over to the Philistines tomorrow, and you and your sons will be here with me. The Lord will bring down the entire army of Israel in defeat.” ‘
1 Samuel 28:18-19

Throughout 1 Samuel, we learn that Saul’s pride and fear led to horrible choices. He refuses to repent and wants to go his own way. He thought he was in control. I wish I could say I was different from Saul, but I don’t know how many times pride and fear have driven my choices.

I blew it yesterday; an older fella came up to me while I was refueling the jeep. We talked about his wife that recently died and a variety of topics; I was kind and listened to him. And I had a distinct prompt, a heavenly nudge to ask the fella if I could pray for him. But I didn’t. I had the chance, but fear or pride got in the way—another missed opportunity to share the goodness of Christ. I want, and I pray, that the Holy Spirit guides my thoughts, words, and actions. But I didn’t take action and had to ask forgiveness for my inaction. I’m thankful for the love, forgiveness, and grace of our Lord Jesus. Hopefully, next time I won’t blow it.

Lord, give me the ability to obey.

We need to humble ourselves and submit to the Lordship of Christ daily. Oh, how we need to obey. We need the Holy Spirit to guide us and God’s wisdom to make better choices. And look what the verse of the day is: James 1:5

‘If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking. ‘
James 1:5