Saul began his reign as a good king. He was humble because he was insecure. During the early days of his reign he listened to Samuel and accepted direction from the prophet. Then, as Samuel had foretold, Saul’s focus changed from God to himself. After a victory over the Amalekites—an occasion when he did not obey God—Saul built a monument to himself. (I Sam. 15:12)
God spoke to His prophet Samuel about the event and told Samuel that He regretted making Saul king: he has turned back from following Me. . . . (v. 11 NKJV)
Samuel felt the weight, and sought God all through the night. (v. 11) The next day he confronted Saul with God’s message.
If Saul had repented—and maintained a repentant heart—he could have remained king. But he did not. Instead, he blamed others. But the people. . . . he said. (v. 21)
At that point a devastated Samuel responded with a hard word: Because you have rejected the word of the Lord, He also has rejected you from being king. (vs. 22,23) Saul lost his kingdom because he refused to repent. Samuel anointed David to replace him.
Originally published September 28, 1990.
Picture: Greater Twin City area, 2009. Photo by Solveig.
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