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Saul Pursues David

1 Samuel 21-24 and Psalm 44

David is alone and on the run. He ends up in Nob and Ahimelek the priest is frightened to see David appear by himself. He gives David food and the sword of Goliath.

But the priest answered David, “I don’t have any ordinary bread on hand; however, there is some consecrated bread here—provided the men have kept themselves from women.” 1 Samuel 21:4

David makes up a story about being sent on a secret mission; Ahimelek has no reason to doubt the story, but Doeg the Edomite is there listening and will prove to be a deadly servant of Saul shortly.

Now one of Saul’s servants was there that day, detained before the Lord; he was Doeg the Edomite, Saul’s chief shepherd. 1 Samuel 21:7

Still alone, David goes to Achish where he is recognized by the men there. The second act is to appear insane:

David took these words to heart and was very much afraid of Achish king of Gath. So he pretended to be insane in their presence; and while he was in their hands he acted like a madman, making marks on the doors of the gate and letting saliva run down his beard. 1 Samuel 21:12-13

It must have been a good acting job because the king wanted nothing to do with yet another madman! David continues to hide.

Remarkably, David’s family finds out out his hiding place and they gather around him:

When his brothers and his father’s household heard about it, they went down to him there. All those who were in distress or in debt or discontented gathered around him, and he became their commander. About four hundred men were with him. 1 Samuel 22:1-2

This is now much different than Joseph’s story as alluded to in an earlier post. There is no bitterness here. Perhaps Saul’s motivation and actions are apparent to the people, but he is there king, so there is little they can do about it. David and his relatively small band of men continue to hide.

Saul is openly complaining that his men are protecting David or at least passively resisting by not earnestly looking for David. Doeg the Edomite chimes in and reports he has seen David in Nob. Saul orders his men to kill the priests, but they refuse.

Doeg the Edomite turned and struck them down. That day he killed eighty-five men who wore the linen ephod. 1 Samuel 22:18

One son escaped and told David what had happened.

Then David said to Abiathar, “That day, when Doeg the Edomite was there, I knew he would be sure to tell Saul. I am responsible for the death of your whole family. Stay with me; don’t be afraid. The man who wants to kill you is trying to kill me too. You will be safe with me.” 1 Samuel 22:22-23

David and his men hear about some Philistine advances at Keilah, so he asks the Lord for guidance. After receiving assurance, David and his forces chase them away, delivering Keilah. Saul, of course, here’s about this and prepares to march on Keilah. Given the horrible consequence at Nob, David asks God and is told Keilah will be attacked, so David leaves and spares them twice, once by the Philistines and once by Saul’s forces.

David’s band is now up to 600 men. Jonathan learns about his hideout and meets David. Once again these brothers make a covenant then depart ways. 1 Samuel 23:18

The Ziphites are sucking up to Saul, assuring him they will call David out if they see him. Saul blesses the Ziphites and continues to chase David. At one point they were on opposite sides of a mountain when a messenger tells Saul that the Philistines have invaded somewhere, so Saul breaks off the pursuit of David in favor of defending the Israelites. This is rather remarkable.

Chapter 24 provides the first account of David sparing Saul when he we vulnerable. Saul goes into a cave to relieve himself (David’s men are in the depths of the cave). Some of his men see the opportunity and encourage David to strike!

He said to his men, “The Lord forbid that I should do such a thing to my master, the Lord’s anointed, or lay my hand on him; for he is the anointed of the Lord.” With these words David sharply rebuked his men and did not allow them to attack Saul. And Saul left the cave and went his way.1 Samuel 24:6-7

After Saul leaves, and probably from a good, safe distance, David calls out to Saul to let him know he was within his grasp, “some urged me to kill you, but I spared you” 1 Samuel 24:10.

May the Lord judge between you and me. And may the Lord avenge the wrongs you have done to me, but my hand will not touch you. 1 Samuel 24:12

Even Saul is humbled (momentarily) by David’s honorable actions. Lord, teach me these ways of David when the battles rage in my life. I’m sure they will never be as important or great, but in the small things, may I show this kind of great wisdom.

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Saul’s Jealousy, Jonathan and David

1 Samuel 18-20

David is now coming into his own. Jonathan, Saul’s son and steady warrior, befriends David and essentially adopts him as his brother. This should be good news:

Whatever mission Saul sent him on, David was so successful that Saul gave him a high rank in the army. This pleased all the troops, and Saul’s officers as well. 1 Samuel 18:5

But the praise of David goes over the top and Saul becomes jealous, to put it mildly. Whatever character flaws that were hidden deep within Saul are now being forced out for all to see.

The next day an evil [harmful] spirit from God came forcefully on Saul. He was prophesying in his house, while David was playing the lyre, as he usually did. Saul had a spear in his hand and he hurled it, saying to himself, “I’ll pin David to the wall.” But David eluded him twice. 1 Samuel 18:10-11

Looking back at chapter 16, we gain some perspective on “as he usually did,”

Whenever the spirit from God came on Saul, David would take up his lyre and play. Then relief would come to Saul; he would feel better, and the evil spirit would leave him. 1 Samuel 16:23

David was in Saul’s service to soothe the tormenting spirit that God allowed. I’ve read lots of commentaries on this subject, but it’s hard to understand why this is allowed to happen–it’s hard to wrap my mind around. Actually, it’s impossible because, wait for it, I’m not God! I certainly get that! Lord help me how to respond to those who do not know you, who would use verses like this to fuel the flame of their denial of you. Much like Judas, Saul is tormented by a demon that is undefined and leaves us wanting more. Difficult.

Saul devises a plan to show his appreciation for David’s advanced fighting skills: he sends him out to battle more and more often! Surely the Philistines will kill David in battle and relieve Saul of his rival! The Lord is with David and he wins battle after battle.

Saul offers his oldest daughter Merab to David in marriage, but David refuses because of his lowly state (really?).  Next, Saul provides another opportunity to marry Michal if David can deliver the foreskins of 100 Philistines for his dowery. Ouch! Saul’s plan is to get David killed in battle (again), but David sees this challenge as simple, plus it seems he has eyes for Michal, so he goes out and kills 200 and delivers the foreskins as required.

When Saul realized that the Lord was with David and that his daughter Michal loved David, Saul became still more afraid of him, and he remained his enemy the rest of his days. 1 Samuel 18:28-29

David’s fame continued to spread–Saul’s anger continued to grow. A bad formula for sure.

Chapter 19 begins with a direct word from Saul to his servants to kill David. Jonathan talks tells David to hide while he talks to his father to find out what he actually said. Saul assures Jonathan,

Saul listened to Jonathan and took this oath: “As surely as the Lord lives, David will not be put to death.” 1 Samuel 19:6

Once again David is successful in battle. Once again Saul tries to pin David to a wall with a spear! David escapes with the help of his wife, Michal, but Saul tries again and again to capture and kill David. Crazy stuff! David finds Samuel and tells him what’s happening. When Saul sends his men there, they all just start prophesying. When Saul eventually goes there himself, the Spirit is so strong that he begins prophesying,

He stripped off his garments, and he too prophesied in Samuel’s presence. He lay naked all that day and all that night. 1 Samuel 19:24

Jonathan’s Covenant

David and Jonathan meet and devise a plan to see if Saul’s intentions have changed. Jonathan makes a covenant with David to seal the deal and the plan is set in motion. The New Moon festival begins and David’s absence is noticed on the second day. Saul asks Jonathan and the scripted response is given. Saul is enraged!

Saul’s anger flared up at Jonathan and he said to him, “You son of a perverse and rebellious woman! Don’t I know that you have sided with the son of Jesse to your own shame and to the shame of the mother who bore you? As long as the son of Jesse lives on this earth, neither you nor your kingdom will be established. Now send someone to bring him to me, for he must die!” 1 Samuel 20:30-31

Somehow I’m pretty sure the Bible translators softened verse 30 a bit! Jonathan is so upset he is unable to eat at the feast. He goes and tells David. They weep together and depart ways, David in hiding, Jonathan to his royal responsibilities.

 

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David Anointed, Defeats Goliath

1 Samuel 16-17 and Psalm 43

Chapter 16 has a great start:

How long will you mourn for Saul, since I have rejected him as king over Israel? Fill your horn with oil and be on your way 1 Samuel 16:1

Samuel was moping about, so God shakes him up and sends him on a mission. Samuel is concerned that Saul will kill him, so the plan is to take a heifer to make a sacrifice, but the real objective is to meet Jesse.

When Samuel arrives at Bethlehem the people start to panic. He assures them he comes in peace and takes Jesse with him to offer a sacrifice. Samuel saw Eliab and was impressed with his size and stature. The Lord was not so moved!

But the Lord said to Samuel, “Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.” 1 Samuel 16:7

I’m grateful the Lord looks at the heart! Samuel has Jesse call each of his sons until they get to the last one, the least one: David.

So Samuel took the horn of oil and anointed him in the presence of his brothers, and from that day on the Spirit of the Lord came powerfully upon David. Samuel then went to Ramah.1 Samuel 16:13

“In the presence of his brothers…” reminds me of Joseph and makes me wonder if they remembered the story. It had to be one of the favorite stories to tell until it came to be their story.  Samuel departs and David returns to the sheep.

Goliath

In the last few chapters we see how this dance was set up. The Israelites are trembling because of the massive Philistines army, that army is sent into confusion by Jonathan’s brave tactical strike, then they regroup and the Israelites begin to fear again. It’s a very tense time. Both sides are afraid to a great extent. The Philistines enlist their giant. In modern times, size has little to do with fighting ability–weapons have changed all of that. But in ancient times (not that I’m that old!) it seems like a man the size of Goliath with the strength and agility, along with military training, could clear a swath of Israelites with a single sweeping blow. Also recall, the Israelites have few weapons of any consequence. The Philistine leaders decide this is the time to make their stand, so the dance begins.

Saul and all the Israelites were dismayed and terrified.1 Samuel 17:11

David

The older brothers were following Saul, members of the army, while David was back tending sheep. Jesse sends David to take some food to his brothers. When David hears the taunts of Goliath, he asks,

“What will be done for the man who kills this Philistine and removes this disgrace from Israel? Who is this uncircumcised Philistine that he should defy the armies of the living God?” 1 Samuel 17:26

Eliab, the oldest brother hears David and calls him out:

I know how conceited you are and how wicked your heart is; you came down only to watch the battle. 1 Samuel 17:28

Now it really does sound like Jacob’s sons in Genesis 37, but the situation is much different. The armies are poised at each other, a single catalytic interaction is all that’s need to set off an explosion. Eliab is infuriated! Don’t poke the bear! Stop trying to agitate people baby brother!!

David gets an audience with Saul, but since he’s young, Saul essentially tells him to go away and let the grown-ups handle these matters. David, however, has lived with the power of the Lord within him and done some mighty acts in the wilderness where he explains how he has killed a lion and a bear–Goliath will be no different. Saul is convinced!

Saul’s men outfit David in armor and accoutrements of a soldier, but David takes them off explaining that he is not used to them and will be unable to fight. The physical aspect of taking on unfamiliar armor makes sense, but I wonder if this is also a metaphor. David needs nothing from Saul. It seems it would be better if David has no help from Saul at all, nothing that Saul can turn around and suggest that he helped in the battle. No. This is God with David against Goliath.

David and Goliath

Armed with a sling and five stones, David approaches Goliath. The taunting begins. First Goliath has a mouth full of curses from his gods, then David provides his rebuttal,

“You come against me with sword and spear and javelin, but I come against you in the name of the Lord Almighty, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied. This day the Lord will deliver you into my hands, and I’ll strike you down and cut off your head. This very day I will give the carcasses of the Philistine army to the birds and the wild animals, and the whole world will know that there is a God in Israel. All those gathered here will know that it is not by sword or spear that the Lord saves; for the battle is the Lord’s, and he will give all of you into our hands.” 1 Samuel 17:45-47

I didn’t want to include that much text in this blog, but it’s difficult to decide what to take out. The comparison of David’s words versus Goliath’s is significant. The bolded text shows how David gives all the honor to God while Goliath claims his personal victory by his own strength. Yes, “I’ll strike you down and cut off your head” is pretty personal, but it is surrounded by statements of honor and glory to God, not David.

David’s sling and stone skills would have won gold in the Olympics. He knocks Goliath to the ground, then decapitates him with his own oversized sword. The fuse ignited, the men of Israel pursued the fleeing Philistines.

The battle is always the Lord’s whether we recognize it or not. God help us to remember!

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Saul’s Foolishness; Saul’s Impulsive Oath and Rejection

1 Samuel 12-15

Samuel addresses the people as Saul begins to rule as king. He summarizes the history of the Israelites and exonerates himself with full support of the people. He is now old and gray and has served faithfully his entire life. What an example.

But be sure to fear the Lord and serve him faithfully with all your heart; consider what great things he has done for you. Yet if you persist in doing evil, both you and your king will perish.” 1 Samuel 12:24-25

Chapter 13 begins with Jonathan attacking a Philistine outpost and Saul tooting his horn. All this seems to have done is stir up the Philistines so they assemble a massive army. Saul’s contingent is not nearly enough, so he calls for help, but the people are clearly frightened.

Saul’s Legacy Begins

Saul knew he had to do something, his credibility was on the line, not to mention the lives of Israel.Saul couldn’t text Samuel, he couldn’t send and email or make a call. He had to wait, but he didn’t know if it would be an hour or a month. Saul is probably thinking, Samuel is traveling about the land doing what he does, so who knows when he will arrive. The people are seriously afraid. He gets impatient and decides to make himself priest and offer sacrifices to please the Lord. Samuel arrives immediately after this decision and confronts Saul,

“You have done a foolish thing,” Samuel said. “You have not kept the command the Lord your God gave you; if you had, he would have established your kingdom over Israel for all time. But now your kingdom will not endure; the Lord has sought out a man after his own heart and appointed him ruler of his people, because you have not kept the Lord’s command.” 1 Samuel 13:13-14

You would think this blunder early on in his career as king would serve as a solid course correction, but we know the rest of the story of Saul and that is certainly not the case. The challenge for leaders of leaders is to know when to call out the next generation. The requirement of the next generation is to listen to the old and gray leaders that have gone before–NOT because they are old and gray, we all become old and gray, but with a discerning ear that hears the voice of experience.

Moses made a remarkable blunder in striking the rock (twice), but took the rebuke well and led the people while mentoring Joshua. It was possible for Saul to learn from that example–they knew the history. However, it appears that he didn’t catch on.

Samuel departs and Saul’s “army” dwindles down to 600 men. Not a good sign. Even worse, they have few weapons, “So on the day of the battle not a soldier with Saul and Jonathan had a sword or spear in his hand; only Saul and his son Jonathan had them.” 1 Samuel 13:22

The Philistine tactic was to send out raiding parties to provoke the Israelites. The strategy was working well, so Jonathan talks to his armor bearer and devises a plan to attack an outpost.

If they say to us, ‘Wait there until we come to you,’ we will stay where we are and not go up to them. But if they say, ‘Come up to us,’ we will climb up, because that will be our sign that the Lord has given them into our hands.” 1 Samuel 14:9-10

The Philistines arrogantly invite Jonathan to their whipping party, but discover Jonathan is a fighter and they lose 20 men in half an acre (like my front yard!). God was with Jonathan and the Philistines panic: a panic sent by God 1 Samuel 14:15.

Jonathan Eats Honey

Saul apparently came up with this clever idea that no soldier should eat before evening, so his army was losing energy. Jonathan didn’t hear this crazy command and has some honey to give him a boost of energy. The men let him know about Saul’s edict. Instead of doing what was logical, we see a trial and verdict where Jonathan is guilty. However, Jonathan’s men stand with him so he is spared that day. It seems pursuing the Philistines is off the agenda, so they settle for maintaining their boundaries.

Chapter 15 is an important chapter for leaders to read and understand, especially those of large and growing organizations. Saul was given clear instructions from the Lord, but he heard what he wanted to hear and though he had great success, his ego got the best of him. Instead of destroying all of the Amalikites, he captured the king and kept the best cattle. Samuel hears about this and confronts Saul. Saul is in complete denial, but Samuel is on point:

“Does the Lord delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as much as in obeying the Lord?
To obey is better than sacrifice, and to heed is better than the fat of rams.
For rebellion is like the sin of divination, and arrogance like the evil of idolatry.
Because you have rejected the word of the Lord, he has rejected you as king.” 1 Samuel 15:22-23

Saul admits he has sinned and begs Samuel for forgiveness, to stay with him, but Samuel has had enough! As he leaves, Saul grabs his robe and tears it at them hem. This becomes a metaphor for Israel being torn from Saul’s hands.

The chapter ends with Samuel taking charge and executing the captured king of the Amalikites, something apparently Saul was not able to do.

Samuel leaves Saul as the problems are just beginning.

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Samuel Anoints Saul

1 Samuel 9-11 and Psalm 42

The random thought popped into my head this morning: I wonder if there is some irony in God choosing Saul in 1 Samuel and Saul in Acts. Hmmm. Perhaps the reason for the name change. Interesting.

Saul was tall and handsome. The idea that we put people on a pedestal in our modern days is no different than that of our ancestors so many years ago.

Saul and his servant were on a mission: looking for donkeys. Somehow the animals were lost and his job was to find them. He ends up in the town where Samuel is preparing to bless the sacrifice as he makes his rounds.

The meet some women (1 Samuel 9:11) who inform Saul and his servant that Samuel is just about to bless the food. It’s interesting that this one verse is injected to enhance the story; memorable because it’s 9:11.

God spoke to Samuel earlier and told him a man from Benjamin would show himself about this time and here comes Saul. Saul doesn’t know Samuel and asks simply, for directions to the seer. Samuel lets him know, “I am the seer” (1 Samuel 9:19).

Samuel invites the humble Saul to the meal and sets him at the head of the table. The next morning the conversation continues and Samuel tells Saul how his day is about to unfold by giving details such as your donkeys have been returned, your father is concerned about you, two men will greet you here, you will meet a person carrying 3 goats here, etc. Crazy stuff!

Saul will meet a procession of prophets prophesying (reminds me of the Twelve Days of Christmas):

The Spirit of the Lord will come powerfully upon you, and you will prophesy with them; and you will be changed into a different person. Once these signs are fulfilled, do whatever your hand finds to do, for God is with you. 1 Samuel 10:6-7

It was as Samuel said, “God changed Saul’s heart” (1 Samuel 10:9).

Saul returns prophesying and the people immediately recognize the change. Saul’s uncle asked Samuel about his whereabouts, but Saul left out the part about Samuel anointing him and the trivial detail about kingship (!).

Saul in Hiding

Samuel creates an event to announce the Lord’s decision to give Israel a king. He goes through all the tribes before coming to the lowly tribe of Benjamin, then to the small clan of Kish. When he got to Saul’s clan, he asked for Saul,

So they inquired further of the Lord, “Has the man come here yet?” And the Lord said, “Yes, he has hidden himself among the supplies.” 1 Samuel 10:22

And so the kings begin in Israel.

Saul also went to his home in Gibeah, accompanied by valiant men whose hearts God had touched. But some scoundrels said, “How can this fellow save us?” They despised him and brought him no gifts. But Saul kept silent. 1 Samuel 10:26-27

Yes, there are always scoundrels.

Chapter 11 provides Saul’s crowning moment. The Israelites were threatened by the Ammonites and Saul came to the rescue.

The next day Saul separated his men into three divisions; during the last watch of the night they broke into the camp of the Ammonites and slaughtered them until the heat of the day. Those who survived were scattered, so that no two of them were left together. 1 Samuel 11:11

There was great celebration! Some suggested they kill the scoundrels that doubted Saul, but he wisely rejected their advice.

There they sacrificed fellowship offerings before the Lord, and Saul and all the Israelites held a great celebration. 1 Samuel 11:15

Good start. Too bad it doesn’t end as well!

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Request for a King

1 Samuel 7-8 and Psalm 41

Samuel becomes the leader for Israel; they listened to his advice and rid themselves of the idols that filled their homes.

On that day they fasted and there they confessed, “We have sinned against the Lord.” Now Samuel was serving as leader of Israel at Mizpah. 1 Samuel 7:6

The Philistines heard the Israelites were gathered together they devised a plan to attack them. From a military perspective this makes good sense, but not when God is involved! (ok, that sounds a bit weird…God is always involved). Anyway, they attack the Israelites, but God threw them into confusion and the Israelites chased them away, killing many as they fled.

Then Samuel took a stone and set it up between Mizpah and Shen. He named it Ebenezer, saying, “Thus far the Lord has helped us.” 1 Samuel 7:12

And so we understand the verse in the old hymn Come Thou Fount, “Here I lay my Ebenezer, hither by thy help I come.”

Samuel was a good and effective leader for Israel, but some bad news:

But his sons did not follow his ways. They turned aside after dishonest gain and accepted bribes and perverted justice. 1 Samuel 8:3

More than bad news, this is sad. As a father, it makes me sad to read about children wandering far from their father’s ways. Surely Joel and Abijah saw the favor with which the Lord looked upon Samuel, let alone all of Israel. Yet somehow, in their minds, they wandered.

Give Us A King!

The Israelites know Samuel’s sons can’t be heirs, they are simply not worthy. Since Samuel is getting old, they approach him and ask him to appoint a king. Samuel asks God for advice and he tells Samuel to give the people what they ask for with a warning to ensure they fully understand. A king means taxes and much more. It changes their organizational structure for sure, but it reveals their inability to trust fully in the Lord.

Samuel warns the people, gives them a long list of problems they can expect by having a king rule over them, but the people insist.

We want a king over us. Then we will be like all the other nations, with a king to lead us and to go out before us and fight our battles. 1 Samuel 8:19-20

“Then we will be like all other nations…” Exactly what God was teaching them NOT to become. The narrative of the Old Testament to this point has been about making Israel God’s people, set apart from the rest, distinctively different. The Israelites keep resisting–they want to fit into society, to be like those around them.

We are set apart.

It’s not that we are special in and of ourselves, but as Paul tells us,

Now if we are children, then we are heirs—heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory. Romans 8:17

We are the children of God. We don’t need an earthly king, but the Israelites have chosen a path that will take them on a new journey in a very different wilderness.

And so we begin to see kings of Israel.

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The Ark Captured; the Ark Returned

1 Samuel 3-6 and Psalm 40

Many, Lord my God,
are the wonders you have done,
the things you planned for us.
None can compare with you;
were I to speak and tell of your deeds,
they would be too many to declare.
Psalm 40:5

Psalm 40 is personal. It is profound. It is written by King David, a man after God’s own heart. It speaks to me today and truly captures my present circumstance:

I desire to do your will, my God;
your law is within my heart.
Psalm 40:8

I will make this into something that involves wood and a scrollsaw to serve as a reminder each and every day. It is my #1 desire, to do the will of God. Lord speak to me each day, open my ears to hear each whisper.

The reading in Chapter 3 begins in an interesting way, “In those days the word of the Lord was rare; there were not many visions.” I certainly can relate in my impatient, microwave mentality as I constantly pray for the Lord to provide a vision!

The Lord calls Samuel in an audible voice, though it takes Eli a few times to figure that out. The imagery is poetic.

The Lord came and stood there, calling as at the other times, “Samuel! Samuel!” Then Samuel said, “Speak, for your servant is listening.” 1 Samuel 3:10

The Lord tells Samuel he will “carry out” his vengeance on Eli’s family, namely the incredulous Hophni and Phinehas, for their scandalous behavior. Eli encourages Samuel to tell him what the Lord said, not to hold back. He could probably sense Samuel’s reluctance, so he pried it out of him. Eli knew. Sad.

The Ark Captured

The Israelites were camped at Ebenezer and set to fight the Philistines. When defeat entered their camp, the elders called for the Ark to assure them of victory. The Philistines were scared, but rallied behind the call to action, “Be strong, Philistines! Be men, or you will be subject to the Hebrews, as they have been to you. Be men, and fight!” (1 Samuel 4:9) They were and they did, including running off with the Ark.

During the battle 30,000 foot soldiers died plus Hophni and Phinehas. But the day was not yet done. A messenger ran back to tell Eli the horrible news.

When he mentioned the ark of God, Eli fell backward off his chair by the side of the gate. His neck was broken and he died, for he was an old man, and he was heavy. He had led Israel forty years. 1 Samuel 4:18

The Philistines took the Ark and place by their god Dagon. The next morning, Dagon was face-planted, so they put Dagon back upright only to find it face-planted and without head and hands. The wizards of the Philistines quickly figured out having the Ark in the same place was a bad idea. They moved it from Ashod to Gath to Ekron. Everywhere they moved it there was trouble so they devised a plan to return the Ark.

The Ark Returned

Basically, the Philistines hitched up “two cows that have calved and have never been yoked” (1 Samuel 6:7) and put them on autopilot set for an Israelite village along with some gold and stuff to appease the Israelite’s God (in their minds). So the Ark was returned. Unfortunately, some curious Israelites looked inside the Ark and died for their transgressions, some 70 people.

Eli and much of his family is dead; now Samuel begins his loyal leadership.

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Samuel’s Birth

1 Samuel 1-2

Another Ephramite story, this time we read about Elkanah and Hannah. Elkanah truly loved Hannah. Even though she was barren, he gave her extra portions of food and spoke kindly to her, “Why are you downhearted? Don’t I mean more to you than ten sons?” (1 Samuel 1:8).

One day, in Hannah’s misery, she began to pray to the Lord silently, weeping bitterly. Eli (the chief priest) saw her lips moving and assumed she was drunk! “Eli thought she was drunk and said to her, ‘How long are you going to stay drunk? Put away your wine.'” (1 Samuel 1:13-14). She assured Eli she was not drunk and he blessed her, assuring Hannah that her prayers would be answered. In short order, Hannah became pregnant.

She named him Samuel, saying, “Because I asked the Lord for him.” 1 Samuel 1:20

Hannah fulfilled her promise to the Lord after he was weaned, very young. She gave “him to the Lord for all the days of his life, and no razor will ever be used on his head” (1 Samuel 1:11).

I prayed for this child, and the Lord has granted me what I asked of him. So now I give him to the Lord. For his whole life he will be given over to the Lord.” And he worshiped the Lord there.1 Samuel 1:27-28

Hannah’s Prayer. The first half of chapter 2 contains Hannah’s prayer. 1 Samuel 2:1-11 Later on, she would have 3 more sons and 2 daughters. Truly blessed!

Eli’s Wicked Sons. The narrative takes a sudden change in verse 12: “Eli’s sons were scoundrels; they had no regard for the Lord.” It’s interesting to know that the “preacher’s kids” are not honorable like the preacher. Depressing as well. Eli rebuked them, but they ignored him as a stereotypical teenager in modern times. “His sons, however, did not listen to their father’s rebuke, for it was the Lord’s will to put them to death.” (1 Samuel 2:25)

But now the Lord declares: ‘Far be it from me! Those who honor me I will honor, but those who despise me will be disdained. 1 Samuel 2:30

The wickedness of the sons cannot be ignored by God. The promise is this: And what happens to your two sons, Hophni and Phinehas, will be a sign to you—they will both die on the same day.” (1 Samuel 2:34)

Samuel begins.

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Ruth

Ruth 1-4

The story of Ruth takes place “in the days when the judges ruled.” The exact dates are not known, so I must conclude this isn’t central to the theme; rather, just understanding this was during the time of the judges provides all the context needed. Having just read Judges, I would say these were difficult times for the Israelites. Ruth provides an example of tragedy and triumph on a personal level.

Famine drives Elimelek and Naomi and their two sons to Moab to find food. While there, all the men die and Naomi is left with her daughters-in-law, Orpah and Ruth. Naomi hears that the Lord was providing for Israelites, so she made plans to return to Judah and tells her in-laws to go back to their people. Orpah concedes, but Ruth hangs on.

But Ruth replied, “Don’t urge me to leave you or to turn back from you. Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God. Where you die I will die, and there I will be buried. May the Lord deal with me, be it ever so severely, if even death separates you and me.” Ruth 1:16-17

Naomi and Ruth arrive in Bethlehem as the harvest was beginning. Naomi is bitter, but no doubt happy to be home. Ruth makes plans to glean from the harvest to support them. This turns out to be a wonderful blessing as she gleans in Boaz’s field, a man from Elimelek’s clan. Boaz notices Ruth and instructs his people to treat her well. There’s no indication of lustful desire or love at first sight. It may be that Boaz was really a man of integrity, one who knew the backstory of Naomi and had compassion, even sympathy for Ruth. Boaz approaches Ruth and tells her to glean with the other women, have water when she’s thirsty, etc. Ruth knows this is special treatment and asks, “Why have I found such favor in your eyes that you notice me–a foreigner?” (Ruth 2:10).

Boaz replied, “I’ve been told all about what you have done for your mother-in-law since the death of your husband—how you left your father and mother and your homeland and came to live with a people you did not know before. Ruth 2:11

Boaz treats Ruth with great kindness, an example for us all to consider. He has nothing to gain by taking in Ruth. No particular honor, no prize or reward. He is however earning eternal rewards by inviting this foreigner into the fold.

Ruth goes home with a bundle from the harvest and Naomi is overjoyed (my term). It turns out that Boaz is a guardian-redeemer, a position in the family for those “responsible for protecting the interests of needy members of the extended family” (NIV Study Bible notes).  Naomi has hope.

In Chapter 3 Naomi develops a plan for Ruth, a plan to secure Ruth’s future as a reward for her dedication. She gives Ruth specific instructions about lying down next to Boaz, what to do and when.

And now, my daughter, don’t be afraid. I will do for you all you ask. All the people of my town know that you are a woman of noble character. Ruth 3:11

Boaz is really impressed with Ruth and is making plans to invoke his guardian-redeemer wildcard, but there’s a catch: he’s not the closest relative [dramatic music plays, Ruth’s expression is one of confusion] (what a great drama!). Ruth returns after the night with more barley and tells Naomi about the evening.

Chapter 4: Cunning Boaz.

Boaz gathers ten elders and the next-in-line guardian-redeemer for a meeting. He begins by explaining Naomi is selling some land and the next-in-line guardian-redeemer has the first right to make the purchase. He jumps on the offer, but Boaz adds some more information.

Then Boaz said, “On the day you buy the land from Naomi, you also acquire Ruth the Moabite, the dead man’s widow, in order to maintain the name of the dead with his property. Ruth 4:5

Whoa Boaz…deal’s off…you buy the land and the foreigner with it! Part of me thinks this is all a formality, the other redeemer knew about Ruth, that she was gleaning in Boaz’s fields, etc. Not that this dilutes the story, perhaps even strengthens it by showing men of honor during difficult times.

We are witnesses. May the Lord make the woman who is coming into your home like Rachel and Leah, who together built up the family of Israel. Ruth 4:11

Boaz has a wife and they have a son, a name that is familiar in a lineage that bears the name Jesus.

The women living there said, “Naomi has a son!” And they named him Obed. He was the father of Jesse, the father of David. Ruth 4:17

The book of Ruth is such a wonderful relief from the dreadful stories in Judges. Here we see men and women of honor acting and behaving in a manner worthy of study. Jesus challenges us all to be kind to those in need (e.g., Matthew 25). Lord help me learn from the men of Ruth. Thank you for providing this story in between Judges and Kings!

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Micah and the Levite; Benjamites Attacked, Given Wives

Judges 17-21

Micah’s Idols (Chapter 17)

“In those days Israel had no king; everyone did as they saw fit.” Judges 17:6

Micah recovers silver for his mother (a LOT of silver), so she sees fit to have an idol created for Micah (along with other household gods). It seems Micah has some recollection about setting up a shrine, installing a priest, etc., so he appoints one of his sons as priest. Voila! He’s in business! Even better, a Levite was passing through, so Micah hired him to be the priest, “Now I know that the Lord will be good to me, since this Levite has become my priest.” (Judges 17:13)

The Danites Settle in Laish (Chapter 18)

The Danites were looking for a place to settle, so they sent 5 men out to “spy out the land” and find a suitable area. They stumbled upon Micah and his priest, so they asked for God’s favor. The priest said, “sure!” (ok, that shouldn’t be in quotes). The spies went home, provided their report and mustered 600 men to capture the land. The Danites force, along with the spies, returned to Micah’s house, took the idols and promoted the priest to be a tribal priest (rather than just one family). “The priest was very pleased” (Judges 18:20). Micah confronted them as they departed with his stuff and priest, but they looked fierce, so he “turned around and went back home.” The Danites attacked and burned down Laish, then rebuilt and renamed the town Dan.

A Levite and His Concubine (Chapter 19)

This is a sad story, like many, that begins with unfaithfulness and ends in a Sodom and Gomorrah like episode where the lewd men of Gibeah (Benjamites) rape and kill the Levite’s concubine. The Levite cuts her into 12 pieces and sends a message to each of the tribes.

Such a thing has never been seen or done, not since the day the Israelites came up out of Egypt. Just imagine! We must do something! So speak up! Judges 19:30

No kidding, something must be done! What does it take to wake you from your slumber? From complacency? This kind of story MUST raise your blood pressure. Like many stories in modern times, do we react when we hear these?

The Israelites Punish the Benjamites (Chapter 20)

Israel (sans Benjamin) gathered to attack Gibeah. Thousands attacked, thousands died. Ultimately, Gibeah was destroyed to avenge the rape and murder of the concubine. Thousands. Bloodshed doesn’t create happiness.

Wives for the Benjamites (Chapter 21)

The Israelites grieved for the tribe of Benjamin, “Today one tribe is cut off from Israel,” they said. “How can we provide wives for those who are left, since we have taken an other by the Lord not to give them any of our daughters in marriage?” Judges 21:7

The leaders come up with a couple of plans to secure virgins for the Benjamites and thus keep the tribe alive. First they killed every man and non-virgin in Jabesh Gilead and gave the virgins to the tribe. When that wasn’t enough, they devised a scheme to ambush virgins and haul them away. I’m just going to leave that alone. The last words in Judges capture the sentiment well:

In those days Israel had no king; everyone did as they saw fit. Judges 21:25

 

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