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Trusting God in the Darkest of Times

1 Samuel 28-31 & Psalm 18

As Saul faces the Philistine army, he desperately seeks guidance from the Lord, but God is silent. Instead of repenting, Saul turns to a medium at Endor to summon the spirit of Samuel. Samuel rebukes Saul, reminding him that God has rejected him because of his disobedience. This tragic chapter highlights the dangers of rejecting God’s word and seeking answers outside of Him. When we refuse to listen to the Lord in times of peace, we may find Him silent in times of crisis. Saul’s life warns us that desperation without true repentance leads only to greater darkness.

David, having sought refuge with the Philistines, is about to march into battle against Israel. However, God providentially intervenes when the Philistine commanders refuse to let him fight. Though David had aligned himself with Israel’s enemy, God spares him from an act that could have jeopardized his future kingship. This chapter reminds us that God’s sovereignty extends even to our missteps. Even when we find ourselves in compromising situations, God’s grace can redirect our path for His purposes.

Upon returning to Ziklag, David and his men find their city burned and their families taken captive. In deep distress, David turns to the Lord for strength instead of falling into despair. God directs him to pursue the enemy, and He grants David complete victory, restoring everything that was lost. This chapter teaches us the power of seeking God in our lowest moments. Instead of reacting in panic or self-pity, David strengthens himself in the Lord—an example of unwavering faith in God's ability to restore and redeem.

Saul’s life ends in tragic defeat on Mount Gilboa. The Philistines kill his sons, and rather than be captured, Saul takes his own life. His death marks the end of a reign that began with promise but ended in failure due to his disobedience. This chapter is a sobering reminder that rejecting God’s commands has lasting consequences. While David’s story is marked by repentance and restoration, Saul’s is marked by pride, fear, and despair. It challenges us to remain faithful to God and to trust His ways over our own.

Psalm 18 is David’s triumphant song of thanksgiving after God delivers him from his enemies, including Saul. He praises God as his rock, fortress, and deliverer, recounting how the Lord answered him in distress. The psalm paints a powerful picture of God’s faithfulness and mighty salvation. It reminds us that no matter how fierce the battle, God is our refuge and victory. When we trust in Him, He rescues, strengthens, and exalts those who walk in righteousness.

These chapters contrast two men—Saul and David. Saul, consumed by fear and disobedience, seeks guidance from the wrong places and faces a tragic end. David, though he stumbles, continually turns back to God, finding strength, restoration, and ultimate victory. Psalm 18 reminds us that God is our deliverer, the One who rescues and upholds those who trust in Him. No matter the trials we face, God remains our refuge, and those who seek Him will find strength and salvation.

 

Reflection Questions:

  • How does Saul’s decision to consult a medium reflect the consequences of rejecting God’s voice?
  • In what ways do we sometimes seek guidance outside of God instead of turning to His word and prayer?
  • How did David’s response to crisis in 1 Samuel 30 differ from Saul’s response to crisis in 1 Samuel 28 and 31?
  • What does Psalm 18 teach us about God’s character and His role as our deliverer?
  • How can we, like David, encourage ourselves in the Lord during times of distress?