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It Works Two Ways, May 28
1 Samuel 14:36-46
With what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure
ye mete, it shall be measured to you again.
Matthew 7:2
.
Saul could not but feel that his son was preferred before him, both by the
people and by the Lord. Jonathan’s deliverance was a severe reproof to the king’s
rashness. He felt a presentiment that his curses would return upon his own head.
He did not longer continue the war with the Philistines, but returned to his home,
moody and dissatisfied.
Those who are most ready to excuse or justify themselves in sin are often
most severe in judging and condemning others. Many, like Saul, bring upon
themselves the displeasure of God, but they reject counsel and despise reproof.
Even when convinced that the Lord is not with them, they refuse to see in
themselves the cause of their trouble. They cherish a proud, boastful spirit, while
they indulge in cruel judgment or severe rebuke of others who are better than
they....
Often those who are seeking to exalt themselves are brought into positions
where their true character is revealed. So it was in the case of Saul. His own
course convinced the people that kingly honor and authority were dearer to him
than justice, mercy, or benevolence. Thus the people were led to see their error
in rejecting the government that God had given them. They had exchanged the
pious prophet, whose prayers had brought down blessings, for a king who in his
blind zeal had prayed for a curse upon them.
Had not the men of Israel interposed to save the life of Jonathan, their
deliverer would have perished by the king’s decree. With what misgivings must
that people afterward have followed Saul’s guidance! How bitter the thought that
he had been placed upon the throne by their own act! The Lord bears long with
the waywardness of men, and to all He grants opportunity to see and forsake
their sins; but while He may seem to prosper those who disregard His will and
despise His warnings, He will, in His own time, surely make manifest their
folly
[155]
58
Ibid., 625, 626
.
159