Day 103 - April 13, 2025

1 Samuel 13-14 Reflection:

Although Saul's reign was told to be very short, his son Johnathan was devout to God and he knew if he walked by faith even with a tiny army he could overcome the Philistines in their camp. From the start the Hebrews were hiding in mountain caves, and cisterns, and burrows, anywhere the Philistines were not but Johnathan turned this cowardice into strategy and the Philistines were sent into a panic, even more confusion ensued when Saul ordered the Ark of God to be brought up. As their enemies were scattered in fear and panic, other tribes joined in the battle. This was a great war leading to all of the Israelites joining in unity against one enemy and they were success in conquering them. The Lord honored this and the enemy was delivered into Israel's hand. Once again peace reigned. From what I gather Saul ordered a fast after this victory and threatened his people if they didn't abide in it. Unfortunately Johnathan didn't get the memo and chaos followed because the people panicked and started slaughtering and eating animals without sacrificing and were eating them with their blood which was sinful against God to not separate the two. I have heard that it was a ritual in witchcraft to just eat animals raw with their blood. Saul wasn't a very good king if he couldn't maintain order. The people were sinning against God again, confused and scared.