Saul’s battle history

Today’s passage serves as a summary of Saul’s reign. (1) After becoming king, Saul engaged in battles with surrounding enemies. These included battles to the north with the kings of Zobah in the region north of Damascus, to the east with the Ammonites and Moabites beyond the Jordan, to the south with the Edomites in the wilderness, and to the west with the Philistines on the coastal plains. Of these, the only enemy Saul failed to completely conquer were the Philistines. The reason was his own foolish decisions. (2) The battle with the Amalekites, a nomadic people, is distinguished from the fights with other nations. The reason for this distinction becomes clear in the next chapter. In the battle with the Amalekites, Saul commits a critical error that leads to God stripping him of his kingship.

Saul’s personal connections

(1) Three of Saul’s sons are mentioned here. A fourth son, not listed here, is Esh-Baal, also known as Ish-Bosheth (ref. 2 Sam. 2:8). This fourth son is the one who becomes Saul’s successor. (2) Two of Saul’s daughters are named: Merab and Michal, both of whom have connections with David. (3) Saul’s wife is Ahinoam, and his cousin Abner became the general. (4) Saul was always prepared for battle, searching for and recruiting brave warriors. David’s brothers were also soldiers recruited into his army. Since becoming king, Saul engaged in battles after battles. Battle especially fierce was against the Philistines. Even those who reach the pinnacle of glory eventually face an end. Saul’s death was not in a state that could be described as glorious. A life not centered on God is a wretched life. Those who are always seeking higher success and or glory fail to learn the joy of living in the present. That was Saul’s life. Those who walk with God not only have hope for the future but also know how to enjoy the present time. Are you living today with joy? What can we learn from Saul, who sought glory, but could not enjoy the present time?