Sunday, March 20, 2011

1 Sam 14
Saul's son, Jonathan, left the Israelite camp to meet the Philistine army. He had only his armor bearer along with him, yet he was full of faith in God's provision, saying " nothing can hinder the Lord, for He can win a battle whether he has many warriors or only a few". With God's help, Jonathan bravely fought the Philistines and their army began to panic with fear and it was reported to Saul that the Philistine army was melting away in every direction. Saul's men joined the battle and found the Philistines in confusion and killing each other. They recognized that the Lord had delivered Israel that day. But, the Israelites were faint and weary since Saul had directed them to take an oath not to eat anything all day. The Israelite army consequently was so hungry that evening that they broke God's command not to eat meat that still contained blood. Also, since Jonathan didn't know about Saul's oath, he had eaten during the day and therefore Saul ordered his execution. The Israelite people rescued Jonathan from Saul, saying " he was used of God to do a mighty miracle today", saving Israel from defeat by the Philisitines.