April 9 – Reading 99

APRIL 9 – Reading 99

by Chris Rainey | April 9

“THERE IS A WAY”
(1 Samuel 27:1-12; 1 Chronicles 12:1-7; 1 Samuel 28:1-25; Psalm 7:1-17)

Moreover, the Lord will give Israel also with you into the hand of the Philistines, and tomorrow you and your sons shall be with me. – 1 Samuel 28:19a

Some people live tragic lives because of the repeated bad choices they make. King Saul is one such person. In the biblical narrative of 1 Samuel 28, we find a compelling account that centers around the complex interplay between a prophet’s unwavering principles and a witch’s unexpected compassion. King Saul, burdened by the looming threat of the Philistine army and his own spiritual isolation, finds himself in a state of profound desperation. His repeated disobedience to divine guidance has created a chasm between him and God, culminating in his initiation of the tragic massacre of 85 priests (1 Samuel 22). 

Next, the death of the prophet Samuel, who had been a source of divine wisdom to Saul but had become estranged from him due to the king’s repeated transgressions, further deepened Saul’s sense of abandonment. Cut off from all channels of spiritual truth, Saul then made a desperate decision. Disguising himself, he sought a medium, the witch of Endor, hoping to glean insights about the impending battle. This act is a stark contradiction of Saul’s own decree that had banished mediums from the land, highlighting the extent of his desperation and the depths to which he has fallen. Things were about to break real bad for Saul. 

In an account that points to our continued existence after death, the medium is able to call up Samuel from the dead, but the news is not good for Saul. He finds out he and his sons will die the next day in battle. The man who once had the spirit come on him in power (1 Samuel 10:10) and change him now falls on the ground in terror, his fate sealed. Though he was shown kindness by the medium, the prophet’s words will prevail. There was a way that seemed right to Saul, but in the end it was the way of death.

Application
When facing uncertainty, we can seek guidance through scripture, prayer, and the faith community rather than resorting to forbidden practices or ignoring God’s commands.

Reflection
Saul’s desperation led him to disobey God by seeking out a medium. How can we avoid making similar choices when we feel abandoned or isolated? How can we ensure that we are always seeking God’s guidance, even in difficult times?

Closing Prayer…
Heavenly Father, we come before you, acknowledging our own weaknesses and the temptations that lead us away from your divine guidance. In moments of desperation and isolation, help us to remember your faithfulness and to seek solace in your Word, prayer, and the community of believers. Protect us from the allure of forbidden practices and grant us the wisdom to discern your will in all circumstances. May our lives be a testament to your steadfast love and unwavering truth, even in the face of adversity. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.