Can you imagine what Saul must have been thinking when he realized his son, Jonathan was missing? In our last reading, we were probably scratching our heads thinking that Jonathan had lost his marbles. Either that or he was just bored and out for a little excitement. But now Saul was the one wondering what in the world his son had done!
It does us good to remember the time and culture where these events took place. We have gotten spoiled with many comforts and conveniences. We need to remember that the army didn’t have weapons because of the Philistine’s ban on blacksmiths. Looking at these events through an almost primitive lens can help us to understand better what was happening.
The result of Jonathan’s surprise visit on the Philistines, together with God’s provision has caused terrible confusion among the Philistines. It had to be a sight to behold. The Philistines were killing each other, so the fact the Israelites had no swords didn’t much matter.
The real hero was God. “So the Lord saved Israel that day, and the battle continued to rage even beyond Beth-aven.”
I can just imagine the conversation that ensued between Saul and Jonathan the next time they were face to face. Something like “What were you thinking?” comes to mind for me. Thankfully for Jonathan, his impulsiveness turned out okay. God used it just fine.
Can you look back over your life and see times that you acted quickly or spontaneously? Perhaps you were “lucky,” too, to have avoided a disastrous result. Maybe it wasn’t “luck” at all but God rescuing you.
I can certainly think of times in my life where I was clearly living outside of God’s perfect will for me. And yet, through it all God was able to make sense of my mess. He was able to teach me things that I may not otherwise have learned.
I’ve been asked to share my story on a podcast tomorrow. The title of my talk will be, “God Never Wastes A Hurt.” I am confident I am not alone when I can see how God has used my mess to be a beautiful Plan B. I would love to hear your stories. You can reach out and share them in our private Facebook group. Join “Reflections, Devos on the Go.”
Let’s pray …
Lord, thank you for loving me no matter what. Forgive me for those times when I fall into sinful behaviors that are not pleasing to you. Thank you that you have cleaned up my messes and set me on your path once again. Show me what it is you have for me this day. Equip me and move me. Help me to learn from each life circumstance and situation. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
