WE ARE NOT LEFT TO WONDER

August 25 - 1 Chronicles 10-14

So Saul died for his unfaithfulness which he had committed against the LORD, because he did not keep the word of the LORD, and also because he consulted a medium for guidance. 14 But he did not inquire of the LORD; therefore He killed him, and turned the kingdom over to David the son of Jesse. (1 Chronicles 10:13-14)

One of the blessings of reading Scripture is that God often removes all uncertainty concerning the reasons behind His actions. While people frequently speculate about why events occur, the Bible sometimes provides a clear divine explanation. Such is the case with the death of King Saul. We are not left to wonder.

The closing verses of 1 Chronicles 10 explain exactly why Saul's reign ended in tragedy. His downfall was not the result of bad luck, military weakness, or political circumstances. It was the consequence of deliberate spiritual disobedience. The inspired writer identifies three specific sins that led to Saul’s demise.

First, Saul was unfaithful to the Lord. God had chosen him to lead Israel, but Saul repeatedly placed his own desires above God's commands. He disobeyed the Lord's instructions, excused his actions, and refused genuine repentance. Leadership is a sacred trust, and Saul violated that trust.

Second, he did not keep the Word of the Lord. God's commands are never mere suggestions to be considered. Saul had received clear instructions through the prophet Samuel, yet he chose partial obedience. Throughout Scripture, partial obedience is revealed to be disobedience. God's blessing rests upon those who hear His Word and faithfully obey it.

Third, Saul consulted a medium instead of seeking God. In one of the darkest moments of his life, Saul turned to forbidden spiritual practices for guidance. Rather than humbling himself before the Lord in repentance and prayer, he sought answers from a source God had expressly condemned. His actions demonstrated a heart that had drifted far from dependence upon the Lord.

The Bible includes a heartbreaking statement: "But he did not inquire of the LORD." Saul wanted guidance, but not from God. He desired answers without submission. This is a warning for every believer. Many seek advice from friends, culture, emotions, or worldly philosophies while neglecting the One who alone possesses perfect wisdom.

In contrast, David, who would become Israel's next king, repeatedly sought the Lord's direction. Though David was not a perfect man, his life was characterized by repentance and dependence upon God. The difference between Saul and David was not sinlessness but the direction of their hearts.

This passage reminds us that God is both gracious and just. He patiently calls His people to obedience, yet persistent rebellion carries serious consequences. We are not left to wonder why Saul fell, because God has plainly told us.

Likewise, we are not left to wonder how we should live. God's Word calls us to faithfulness, obedience, and continual dependence upon Him. Rather than seeking guidance from the wisdom of the world, believers are invited to seek the Lord through His Word, prayer, and the leading of His Spirit. Those who inquire of the Lord will never seek Him in vain.