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1 Samuel 14

Good Morning “Those Who Act in Faith, not Haste.”  Today we are in 1 Samuel 14.

This chapter opens with Saul getting comfy as the king.  He’s content to chill, surrounded by 600 men.  With them was the High Priest.  Jonathan, his son, is not content to languish but understands God has promised to give the Philistines into the hands of Israel.

Jonathan decides in faith to go it alone.  This was no easy task.  There was a great gap between Jonathan and the Philistine Garrison.  Cliffs flanked both sides.  The Hebrew names of these rocks are roughly equivalent to “Slippery” (Bozez) and “Thorny” (Seneh).  

What would cause Jonathan to think he could cross, let alone conquer the Philistines alone?  Unlike his father, he believed!  He did not however possess an arrogant faith that purposed to “know” what God would do.  He was humble.  He understood, “I believe this is Gods promise; but acknowledge I may be ignorant to His timing and will in this moment.” Check out his statement.  ”Jonathan said to his young armor-bearer, “Come, let’s go over to the outpost of those uncircumcised men. Perhaps the Lord will act in our behalf. Nothing can hinder the Lord from saving, whether by many or by few.”“
‭‭1 Samuel‬ ‭14‬:‭6‬ ‭NIV‬‬.

The use of “perhaps” here is not a demonstration of lack of faith, but rather a humble acknowledgement that He is God and we are not!  True faith is contagious!  Inspiring!  His Armor Bearer is immediately on board!  

Once Saul recognizes there is conquering being done, he wants in on the glory, making rash decisions and oaths once again.  When he recognizes that the battle victory has little to do with him he even makes an oath that no one is to eat till after the battle.  His men are famished - so this hinders them.  It’s as if he is seeking to turn the battle just enough so that it’s a closer fight - so he can get the glory.  

I’m out of room here.  You’ll have to read if you haven’t already and put the rest of the pieces together.  Two examples here.  One good, one bad.  Jonathon gives us an example of incredible faith.  Saul is more about the show.

Love you all!  Dig in!