Low Spots

Saul groaned to his armor bearer, “Take your sword and kill me before these pagan Philistines come to run me through and taunt and torture me.” [1 Samuel 31.4]

This is an interesting passage because concurrent with this event, David was also experiencing difficulties (Ziklag had been looted and burned). Both men were facing defeat.

Saul's response and David's response differed however in that David sought the LORD and was given new direction for moving forward. Saul, on the other hand, did not seek the LORD, succumbed to his circumstances, and took his own life. Saul's ending was rather non-glorious. David recovered from his 'low spot' and was victorious.

What's the lesson here? I think it is found in David asking God what to do. David's heart was tender toward God and so he sought God. Saul's heart was hard and he did not seek God.

Father, help me, in the low spots of my life to seek You. May I be found repentant for my transgressions and receptive of Your mercy and grace so that Your glory might be seen in and through me.