Saul was actually hiding and looked like a coward when he was named king (1 Samuel 9:22).  There were those who didn’t believe that Saul should be king.  They hated him and didn’t show him the respect due to a king (1 Samuel 9:27).  After he won the battle in Jabesh, he credited the win to God. Saul didn’t become arrogant or self-praising.  We all know of those in prominent positions of power in the government, celebrities or sports figures who praise themselves for their fame or accomplishment instead of praising God for their abilities. Saul showed humility which I really respect in a person in authority.  Some of the people wanted to kill those who hated and disrespected Saul.  However, Saul showed mercy to them.  Samuel reaffirmed Saul as king, praised God and they all celebrated.

 

The mercy Saul showed his enemies is the same mercy that God shows us.  God is patient with us too. He wants us to repent, trust him and understand that he knows what is best for us.  Who else would know what is best for us than the one who created us?  The theme of disobedience, repentance and forgiveness is found throughout the Old Testament.  God’s patience reminds me that even when I mess up, He still loves me and will take me back.  He knows my heart and even though I don’t do, say or act as I should, He still loves me.  We all have been in bad situations that we probably have caused by ignoring God in some way. We can’t see the light at the end of the tunnel and wonder if God really does love us. We can’t seem to do anything to turn the corner or change the situation for the better.  We only have to remember that God does love us and if we ask for his mercy He will grant it. He wants all of us for Himself and will not stop knocking on our door until we let Him in.

 

Your fellow traveler,

 

Rhonda