Jonathan's Victory. I Samuel 14

 

I Samuel 14 – Jonathan’s Victory

 

Saul should not have taken the ark to the battlefield. In the days of Samuel, the children of Israel used the ark, thinking it would help them win their battles. Apparently, Saul had the same reason. Despite his reasons, Jonathan’s strategy had won the battle. God saved Israel that day.

Jonathan did not know about his father’s strange order that no man was to eat until the battle was won. Jonathan gained the victory and Saul took the credit for it. He was not willing to give credit to his son. His “modesty” was gone, and his jealousy was revealed.

It was a foolish command that Saul had given. The men were weary. They had fought a battle and won. They needed something to eat. Saul said, “I will not let anyone eat anything until I am avenged of my enemies.”

He built an altar to the Lord and offered sacrifices. He asked counsel of God, “shall I go down after the Philistines?” But God did not answer him that day.

The army stood silently. They knew the victory was Jonathan’s. And now Saul said, “the reason God did not answer me was because someone did not obey me and broke the oath.” Jonathan had tasted the honey and the army kept silent because Saul was the king.

Saul believed Jonathan was guilty. Which he was, but Saul had said, “cursed be the man that eats any food this day.” Saul would destroy his son if he stood in his way. Saul wanted all the glory for himself. Because Jonathan’s life was at stake, the army no longer kept silent. They said, “Shall Jonathan die who has wrought this great salvation in Israel? God forbid, if one hair of his head shall fall to the ground; for he has wrought with God this day.” So, the people rescued Jonathan.

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

J. Vernon McGee Commentary and Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.