1. The tragic death of King Saul (1-12)

Saul was Israel's first king. He looked impressive (1Sa 10:23). We look at outward appearances, but the Lord looks at the heart (1Sa 16:7). Saul and his sons died in battle against the Philistines. Their bodies were displayed at a pagan temple. But valiant men of Jabesh Gilead retrieved their bodies and gave them a proper burial, since Saul had once rescued them (1Sa 11).

2. Because of his unfaithfulness to God (13-14)

Saul was unfaithful to God in two ways: (1) He didn’t keep God’s word. His disobedience was taken as rebellion and arrogance (1Sa 15:22-23). (2) He consulted a fortune teller, rather than praying to God (1Sa 28). So God put him to death and turned the kingdom over to David.


Application: Lord, forgive my rebellion and arrogance. Help me to keep your word rather than following my own ideas and feelings. I come to you in prayer.
One Word: Keep God’s word and pray to God