Well, well, here we see that history does repeat itself. Saul is still mad at David, so David and Jonathan (who happens to be Saul's eldest son) stage their own version of the "one if by land, two if by sea" scenario. I really recommend that you read the entire chapter to get the full effect. You can do that, here.
Welcome to 1 Samuel 20, everyone!
Scripture:
"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 and bring him tome, for he must die." ~1 Samuel 20:30-31
Observation:
Well, that's a way to reply to your eldest son! Jonathan had seen early on that his father's dynasty wouldn't last, not even long enough for Jonathan to wear Israel's crown. Even as early as Goliath, Jonathan had become best friends with David. They could talk about anything, and trust each other with their lives.
In 1 Samuel 20, David hides behind a big rock during an important celebration. Normally, David would sit next to the king, but this time he was missing...two days in a row. When Saul asks where David was, Jonathan lies and tells his dad that David has gone to visit his family in Bethlehem.
Of course, as you know, Saul just about explodes, almost pinning Jonathan to the wall with his spear. Jonathan quickly makes his exit, and then puts into motion his version of "one if by land, two if by sea". No, it didn't involve horses, lanterns, or churches. But it did involve arrows, boys, and tears! Since I don't want to spoil the story for you, I won't finish it.....but please read the rest here--it's fascinating!
Application:
Even in just the little portion of the chapter that I discussed, I do think that there is an important to be learned.
Saul was focusing on personal glory, and that's what made him make all these rash acts, such as throwing his spear to kill two great guys! Saul knew that Samuel had said that the kingdom wasn't his any more, that God had given it to somebody better. All Saul thought about was himself, and obliterating any possible kings.
Do we focus more on personal glory, or serving and helping others? I don't think any of us would do what Saul did, but if we continue on our self-exalting path, that is where we will end up. Instead of focusing on me! me! me!, how about we focus more on serving and helping others? I know it is hard. It's certainly not natural to us self-centered humans. But if we ask God for help in this area, he will give it.
Prayer:
Dear God, help me to become more like you by serving and helping others. I truly don't want to become like Saul, but I know that's where I'll end up if you don't help me. Please help me to become more and more like you each day. In Jesus' name, Amen.
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