sad prophetic reality

Thus Saul died, and his three sons, and his armor-bearer, and all his men, on the same day together.
1 Samuel 31:6

God had told Saul that his kingdom would end and that not one of his sons would survive to take the throne of Israel. And in one decisive battle, the Philistine army brings about all that God said would happen. Saul began so innocently, but ran from God so much. It only seemed in his most desperate moments that he considered what God said to him.

Sad stories are found in scripture. Human life has its sad and its dark moments. And Saul's story is consumed by Saul's own selfishness. It literally drove him insane. He was given over to uncontrollable rage and introspective depression. His impatience with God was a hallmark of his life. And it led him to lead Israel inconsistently at best.

Saul started so humble, but somehow, in the throes of the leadership crucible, emerged a very self-centered and self-focused man. His death epitomizes this. Rather than die at the hands of the Philistines, he falls on his own sword. He wanted control so much, and the only thing he got to control in the end was his own painful demise.

Of course, all of this points to the next step in Israel's history, which is the Davidic kingdom. And God has already been working to bring David, the prophesied king, to the place God has for him. The sad prophetic reality will be placed by a strong prophetic leader... in time... in God's providence.


- Prepare your minds for action.
1 Peter 1:13