Day 133

1 Samuel 14:1-52; John 7:31-53; Psalm 109:1-31; Proverbs 15:5-7

IN TODAY’S READING from 1 Samuel, Saul’s son Jonathan covertly confronted a Philistine outpost, which successfully caused panic throughout the entire Philistine encampment, and the Philistines began attacking one another. When Saul saw what was happening, he made his men vow that they would not eat until they had taken vengeance on their enemies. Without nourishment, the men exhausted themselves, but Jonathan hadn’t heard or taken this vow. He later learned of it, but not before eating from a honeycomb.

“‘My father has made trouble for us all!’ Jonathan exclaimed. ‘A command like that only hurts us. See how refreshed I am now that I have eaten this little bit of honey’” (1 Samuel 14:29). Meanwhile, Israel’s men circled back to the battlefield and ravenously began to kill and consume the livestock, due to hunger and exhaustion.

Saul wanted to chase the Philistines into the night and press the victory forward, but a priest suggested they consult with God on the matter. God had nothing to say.

“Something’s wrong!” Saul exclaimed. “I want all my army commanders to come here. We must find out what sin was committed today. I vow by the name of the LORD who rescued Israel that the sinner will surely die, even if it is my own son Jonathan!” (1 Samuel 14:38-39).

Lots were drawn, and Jonathan was chosen as the offender.

“‘Tell me what you have done,’ Saul demanded of Jonathan.

“‘I tasted a little honey,’ Jonathan admitted. ‘It was only a little bit on the end of my stick. Does that deserve death?’”

“‘Yes, Jonathan,’ Saul said, ‘you must die! May God strike me and even kill me if you do not die for this’” (1 Samuel 14:43-44).

Obviously, Saul’s reaction was incredibly harsh —especially with his own son, the prince of Israel and heir to the throne. But once again, we saw Saul’s fear and insecurity navigate him into a drastic situation. However, the people would have nothing to do with it:

“Jonathan has won this great victory for Israel. Should he die? Far from it! As surely as the LORD lives, not one hair on his head will be touched, for God helped him do a great deed today” (1 Samuel 14:45).

Saul wanted to look the part of a strong and decisive leader, but he was plagued by deep issues of insecurity. This clouded his judgment and brought about what he greatly feared —humiliation before his people. His insecurity nearly cost Jonathan his life.

Has this been your story at times? Have you put yourself in situations where the only way was the wrong way, and you’ve had to face drastic consequences or humiliation because of bravado, pride, and insecurity? Invite God to speak about insecurity and the fear of others today. These must be rooted out of our lives if we seek clarity and wholeness.

PRAYER:

Help me, O LORD my God! Save me because of your unfailing love. Let them see that this is your doing, that you yourself have done it, LORD. Then let them curse me if they like, but you will bless me!