I Samuel 15

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I Samuel 15:34-35, Then Samuel left for Ramah, but Saul went up to his home in Gibeah of Saul. Until the day Samuel died, he did not go to see Saul again, though Samuel mourned for him. And the Lord regretted that he had made Saul king over Israel.

What a sad chapter.  Saul has come completely unhinged.  He gives lip service to serving God but really does what he wants. 

God had tasked Saul and his army to destroy the Amalekites for their violent treatment of the Israelites as they made their way into the promised land.  God’s instructions were very clear: kill all of them.  But Saul decides to save the best of the livestock and keep the Amalekite king as a prisoner.  When confronted by Samuel the prophet, Saul actually lies about the situation.  When caught, he begins to back-pedal, saying he took the best of the animals to sacrifice to the Lord.  He is almost flippant, totally not acknowledging the severity of disobedience.  It’s obvious, the power of kingship has gone to his head.  Saul wants to do what he wants to do when he wants to do it.  He has forgotten where he came from and who got him there.  He has forgotten his place in the world.  Saul is not above God.

As a result of Saul’s arrogance, his disobedience, and his lack of repentance, Samuel knows he must separate from Saul.  He can no longer be connected with this man.  This grieved Samuel, as he had served with Saul for years.  And Saul’s behavior grieved God.

I’ve been reflecting about this – are there times when we think we are above God?  Are there times when we think we know better?  I’m not saying I have a good answer or even an example, but it’s worth spending some time in prayer about this. 

Lord, Help us remember our place in this world.  You are God and we are not.  May we remember that we belong to you.  Help us grow in trust of the one true King.  In Your Name, Amen.