Scripture Reading: 1 Samuel 9:1-2, 1 Samuel 9:17-19, 1 Samuel 9:26-27, 1 Samuel 10:1-10, 1 Samuel 10:17-24, 1 Samuel 15:1-29, 1 Samuel 15:34-35
Too often I hear news of leaders, in the church or outside, misusing their positions of authority. Every time, I want to ask, “How did it get to this point? What could have prevented this?” In some cases, investigative news stories or podcasts emerge that give a fuller picture of the story. While details vary, one element is always present: self-deception. Leaders deceive themselves into thinking what they are doing is not wrong or is excusable, and others deceive themselves into thinking the leader’s conduct is justified. When we deceive ourselves, we really are saying that we don’t want to know the whole truth because it might threaten what is really important to us.
The story of Saul, the first king of Israel, is a story of self-deception. Even though the people of Israel had rejected God and requested a king like the surrounding nations, God was gracious and gave them a ruler who could have been a different kind of king—one who depended on God for guidance and security. Saul is described as a physically impressive man, one willing to follow the word of God as given to him by the prophet Samuel. However, Saul did not turn out to be that kind of king. His hearing was always a little selective—sometimes following Samuel’s instructions and sometimes bending the rules to fit what he thought was best.
Saul’s double-mindedness and double-speak came to a head in 1 Samuel 15. While he attacked the Amalekites, he did not fully destroy them as God had commanded. Saul then deceived himself into believing that he had done what was required, greeting Samuel with the words, “I have carried out the LORD’s instructions” (1Samuel 15:13). When confronted with evidence that he in fact did not do as God has said, Saul deflected blame (v.15). Samuel asked, “Although you once considered yourself unimportant, haven’t you become the leader of the tribes of Israel?” (v.17). Saul had forgotten God’s anointing and made himself big, still insisting, “But I did obey the LORD!” (v. 20). Samuel didn’t buy it, responding, “to obey is better than sacrifice” (v. 22). And most condemning of all, God rejected Saul as king.
I think Saul’s story is a warning to all of us. How do we deceive ourselves into believing that God is interested in success on the world’s terms? Are a well-spoken and physically attractive leader, a growing church or business, or money pouring in sure signs of His favor? Over time, Saul became more like the kings of the nations, often paying lip service to the worship of God then turning to act out of his own self-interest. And like Saul, some of these may actually be monuments we’ve erected to ourselves.
We can deceive ourselves into looking to outward appearances for salvation from perceived enemies. We can also deceive ourselves into believing we are serving God while we build monuments that will not last. God, save us from self-deception and humbly return us to You.
Written by Elliot Ritzema
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75 thoughts on "Saul"
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Father, thank You for this reading. please save us from ourselves and transform our hearts and minds to reflect the image of Jesus Christ in Jesus name I pray Amen
Ouch… do I bend the rules too because of what I think is best? That’s pretty convicting.
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This account so much reminds me of Aaron and the golden calf and also Adam & Eve in the garden after the fall.
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God knows. God sees.
This devotion sure hits home with the current state or our country.
Amen Stephanie Zimmer
Did anyone else do a dig on that part about “regretting” making Saul King?” I found several commentaries that explained it and helped my surprise of how an “all-knowing God does something he will regret.
Rhonda J- what did you find?? I was intrigued by this as well!
I listened to the podcast this morning and Mike Edmonson said even though God is all knowing and doesn’t make mistakes, He was deeply heartbroken over the suffering of his people and their pain.
Yes me too.
Happy Friday shes. Work has been so busy for me so i have not been here daily. Since one of our team members is away for vacay the next three weeks and another person sadly quit. I would appreciate your prayers that things could be manageable. Today I was so glad to read the devotional- what wisdom and the addressing of relatable issues. I want to share another poem (thank you for your encouragement on my last one.. that helps me so much to get out of my shyness)
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SAUL (the cost of the crown)
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God called a man, both tall and strong,
To lead His people, right their wrong.
From tribe of Benjamin came Saul,
Anointed king to heed God’s call.
With oil and word, the charge was plain:
To honor God, not seek his gain.
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A time soon came, God’s voice was heard:
“Strike Amalek, obey My word.
Destroy it all—no spoil, no beast,
No king, no herd, not even least.
For long ago they sinned in hate,
Now justice comes—don’t hesitate.”
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But Saul looked out and saw the “gold”
The bleating lambs, the cattle bold,
He spared the best, and Agag too,
Even claimed, “It’s for God that I do.
These perfect sheep, these oxen fine
We’ll sacrifice, make altars shine.”
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Yet God saw through the painted speech,
And sent His prophet forth to teach.
God’s voice thundered, stern and cold,
Through Samuel’s lips the judgment told.
So, Samuel wept as decision came,
As heaven’s voice withdrew Saul’s name.
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O soul that walks the narrow road,
Heed well the burden and the load.
Don’t dress disobedience in grace,
Don’t please the people and lose your place.
Not all who lift their hands in praise
Have walked in truth or kept His ways.
But those who bend to God’s command,
Shall surely in His promise stand.
Obedience—this God desires,
And hearts that trust, and wills aligned.
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Obedience is the gate to peace,
The path where storms and struggles cease.
To trust is not to understand,
But place your life in better hands.
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So walk by faith, not sight or scheme,
And trust the One whose thoughts redeem.
Let every choice be heaven’s call,
And you will never, ever fall.
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Have a blessed weekend sisters. Hugs and love to you all.
Beautiful poem. You have a lovely way with words.♥️♥️♥️
I love the poem, perfect! And you my friend, I thought you must be busy with work! Praying for God to sustain you, and even give you reprieve for family and rest.
Mercy this is incredible ! Thank you for sharing
Beautiful! So far, I’ve screenshot both your poems.
Wow, Mercy this is an amazing poem. I love it. You have some real talent for writing.
Thank you for sharing your gift with us, dear Mercy! You are so talented! Praying for your work situation, precious sister! ❤️
Mercy,you are very gifted for poetry! What a beautiful, emotional, and challenging summary of our Scripture passages. Thanks so much for taking the time to write this and share it with us! I pray for your work situation also and for some respite this weekend. Love and hugs! ❤
Saul falls prey to the exact same temptations that afflict so many of our leaders: pride and fear of the people. So many “leaders” are only in it for the power or monuments to themselves, even if they started with purer motives; and fear of the people or of not getting re-elected/losing power and position destroys any courage they might once have had to do the right thing. It’s sad, really. But we also fall into the same temptation if we aren’t very careful. I had to fire my son’s caregiver this week, and it was SO HARD! We had talked at length about her responsibilities and what needed to change for her to stay on the job, but she got so hostile and abusive when I held to my boundaries. We had been friends for years, and her turning on me has been so very painful. Trying to maintain a professional distance and act with dignity when she is running around badmouthing me and doing herself more harm than good is so painful to watch. I really feel like I can identify with Samuel in this passage. It just didn’t have to end this way, but I can’t control anyone but myself. But I am grateful to know that God understands my pain because he, too, has endured rejection by those he loves.
Praying for you, this is a difficult situation.
Just this week I’ve read through 1 Samuel 8-17. We have been watching the Amazon series – “David”, I wanted to refresh my memory of the Biblical account and compare it to the shows content. FYI, I’d say 90% (or more) is fiction loosely weaved into the Biblical facts.
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Saul began well but did not end well. He let pride infiltrate his kingship and sadly believed the lies of Satan.
“To obey is better than sacrifice…” period. If we do not obey completely, then it is not obedience at all.
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My desire is that I will end well. Following God, obeying Him in everything and trusting that His way and His reasons are perfect. I desire my life to be an example of Christ and that when I stand before Him I will hear, “well done thou good and faithful servant”.
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Father God, May I never lose sight, may I stay on the path, may I obey You in all I do and say – completely. This is my prayer for myself and all of my SRT sisters. In Jesus Name.
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To Him be the glory.
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Happy Friday She’s – it’s the weekend! Enjoy!
Today my older daughter graduates from high school. She’s at the early morning rehearsal as I write this. May I ask for a prayer for all the young adults this time of year, as they make their next steps? For the believers to continue making their relationship with Jesus No. 1. And for the unbelievers like my girl, to meet Him in a real way, and meet other Christ-followers in this next momentous stage of life…
Saul repeatedly referred to God as “the Lord your God” when talking to Samuel; not “OUR God.” He also had not made faith and trust in God his own, like some of our children.
What a milestone Lisa! Congratulations as you see your girl graduate. I remember it so well! It goes fast and then college goes even faster it seems. So many pull away from the faith they grew up with as a time for independence. And unfortunately the teachings are strong today against Christianity. BUT GOD..he promises if we raise them up in Him, he will bring them home. I am trusting in that for my own nieces and nephews, and even my own son that is questionable, or perhaps Luke warm. I have a friend that is adamant for praying for our college campuses. There is a great move in that age group right now!! Praise God! I too went way astray in those years, but when the blows strike…We/they will remember who to turn to!!
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Praying for your daughter and all the other graduates! ❤️
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Praying for your sweet request. What a heart you have for the young generations, they need our prayers of blessings and covering so so much.
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Such a great devo! Yes self deception, blaming others for our sin, and not obeying God! Grant me the humility to repent when You, Lord, reveal my sin not blaming others!
Blaming others is always our clue that the problem is with us. Justification of my actions is one as well!
This was so good! I love when the Lord shows me something about what I have been doing! His correction is so much better than the enemy’s condemnation!
Praying for all! Praying God will just send you a sweet sense of His living presence today!
Prayers requested for baby Levi, Tammy, and my daughter’s father-in-law who is struggling after loss of his sweet wife.
Yes, good Cheryl. Reveal my sin Lord, to quickly repent. Blaming others and justification- a clue the problem is us.
Only because of your love and forgiveness is my heart clean and my hands are pure. May I be useful in your hands, Jesus.
May I know the love of the Father, the incredible friendship of Jesus, and the power and fun of the Holy Spirit as I live in abiding steps with you because of your great love for me.
Amen ❤️
“God, save us from our self-deception and return us to you.”
Amen. Anyone can fall into self-deception if not staying focused on the word if truth. Obedience is better than sacrifice. Glory to God who is keep us on the straight and narrow.
I think today’s devotion could apply to Samson as well. Self-deception is a powerful thing to make us become a legend in our own mind. I like how the author of the devotional used this a cautionary story. It creates an idol of “me”.
Did Saul ever have a relationship with G-d or did he just depend on Samuel’s faith? I wonder about this.
” So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don’t fall!” 1 Corinthians 10:12.
Yes! A legend in my own mind. Grant me humility Lord. The idol of me. And if I think I can’t fall…! Be diligent. Stand firm.
Hello She’s, it’s been awhile.
Related with this reading so much. I was once Saul, under self deception…in a place that I thought was good. God thankfully pulled me out. The process has been painful and definitely working throught it now. But now seeing who God really is, vs how God was presented to me through a leader that I thought was healthy has been life changing. So thankful that God loves us enough to not leave us in darkness. <3
So good to see you Lexi B!! You HAVE been missed. I am so glad you were brought to truth and light, and you are here now.
❤️ hi sweet friend, how are you doing? Lifting you up in prayers for God’s revelation to shine and direct your thoughts, heart intentions.
Welcome back, dear Lexi! ❤️
I was anxious to dig into “Saul” this morning! I love this study of people of the OT. The reading of Saul as king and going to battle with the Amalekites, keeping the spoils, and the confrontation of Samuel afterwards is played out well in the new series of Prime “House of David!”
We too, follow after God- then, can’t seem to help our fleshy desires to keep some prizes for ourselves. Money, nice houses and cars, stuff. Or accolades and honor, and gratification. We are prideful and full of wants that lead to destruction if we do not keep our eyes on the real prize. Running our race to win. We need Jesus. Is is our compos, our rock, the cornerstone. He is our anchor. And how can we change? The Holy Spirit power in us, working to produce the fruits in us. They shall know them/us by the fruit..!
It is a long road, this trail of life. We will fall, have many injuries and scars, detours and dead ends. We may even get crushed by falling trees or attacked by vicious animals, stung by wasp or annoyed by mosquitoes buzzing and nipping. BUT GOD, he sees, knows, hears, is there.
We will prevail with Him!
Lord keep me on your path, a lamp at my feet, a light to see. Let me hold your hand, and when I fall, Jesus pick me up. Let me be tender to the Spirit, yielding my flesh. Produce in me a pliable heart that years for you, that desires and hungers for you. Give me eyes to see and ears to hear oh Lord. I want to seek you with my everything, you being the center of my world. I surrender my will to yours, again and again. Thank you Jesus, Amen.
I like the Prime show: House of David! Well done!
I agree with you, “can’t seem to help our fleshly desires to keep some prizes for ourselves.”
May I add an AMEN! ❤️
His Word is the lamp to our feet. Amen.
“We can also deceive ourselves into believing we are serving God while we build monuments that will not last. God, save us from self-deception and humbly return us to You.”
It is easy for me(us) to get caught up in our own mindset, easily distracted and I think ofter times so subtley – it’s not intentional. But I have forged ahead and not fully sought out the Lord. It leaves us in a place of compromise or no turning back which does not end well and is certainly not what the Lord has planned or intended.
Heavenly Father, forgive when I press on without listening or seeking you. Keep my heart united with yours, my eyes fixed on you and ears that hear what you are saying. Lead me Lord, in all ways. Amen
Good morning Shes. I just did the “Hannah” day so a little behind.
Update on work situation: the man who was acting maliciously towards me was hired back against everyone in unison saying “don’t” – my boss def let his emotions get to him. I had a long convo with the wife and told her most of what has gone on when they aren’t around. She heard me and sees a fuller picture now. I am literally just praying and believing God to walk me through all this cuz there really else I can do in my own wisdom.
I pray fot you ladies that you are well and cared for in your local communities. May God continue to guide us and keep us in His Word. ❤️
Lord,thank you for being present for Michelle.I ask that you secure her work enviroment and give her peace in her work and protection from this work bully. Lord, our work enviroments need to be free of anxiety .Lord, remember Michelle and move on her behalf in a way that only You can do. In the name of Jesus.”
I can relate to this. With much prayer G-d showed up and intervened in a hostile work enviroment. I was bathed in a lot of prayer from the She’s and my church
Amen. ♥️♥️♥️
Thank you, Tanya!!! ❤️ i know prayer really works, which is why I share :)
Amen. Prayers Michelle. It’s great that you got to talk to the wife and ya’ll are close. Maybe she will talk some sense into her husband. Still praying they will see Jesus in you.
Stand strong. Sometimes God puts us in the path of a very difficult person as a mirror to reflect Him, the things from Him that this person can refuse to face. I was asking God for many years why He would allow me repeatedly around people who would drain my energy and misunderstand my intentions. But then it’s only for a season. Sometimes we are sent in their path, not for OUR comfort but for their awakening. Your presence alone could be the confrontation, the conviction, a reflection of something they want to avoid, or they refuse to deal with.. a pure heart, the willingness to forgive, a strong spirit, (the light), and this can really challenge them, and sometimes they will fight against this reflection. Hugs and prayers dear Michelle. Your presence in their life is an opportunity for them to change, to grow, to break free from the toxic patterns that have kept them trapped for so long. Girl, be strong and be courageous. God will help you through! We are behind you in prayers ❤️❤️❤️
That is so powerful to think about and remember! Also, makes it easier for us to not fall into the trap the devil would love for us! We must say…NOT TODAY Satan!
Michelle, I know that must have been a huge disappointment for you, but I remember that you kind of expected that to happen. I, too, am thankful you finally had a chance to confide in the wife and pray their eyes will truly see things as they are- no blinders. Agreeing with the prayers here by our sisters and for your protection. Love you, little sis- sending hugs for strength. ❤
Happy Friday sweet She’s! Sigh… So glad it’s Friday and ready to rest. I’m tired.
“to obey is better than sacrifice” (v.22) This verse was used ALOT at church I once belonged to many, many years ago. I was at a vulnerable state and I tend (with my personality) to believe everyone and often give people the benefit of the doubt. But in this case and this particular church, I felt I was taken advantage of and experienced church hurt, but I keep in mind that we (me) are fallen people with flaws and all. While this church was a stepping stone landing me where I currently serve, it helped me to “guard” my heart. I actually wrote this particular church down (including the pastor) on my inventory when going through a step-study with celebrate recovery, helping me to forgive and allow God to bring justice as He’s much better at than me.
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Obedience over sacrifice ❤️
Yes, Shes, such a sad ending to a triumphant life story.
Saul thought he was committing just a teensy-weensy twist on God’s command.
The first ever and never again king of God’s people. The strikingly tall and morally short.
Misconstruing the Word of the Lord.
Forfeiting the kingship.
Breaking Solomon’s heart.
Well put
Forgive my pride and disobedience. Change my heart to hear and obey. In Jesus name, Amen
God help us to obey and obey fully. No selective hearing or doing right after the fact. Humbly following Your every Word!
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The last sentence in the devo says it all, “God, save us from self-deception and humbly return us to You.”
Lord, help me keep my eyes on You, today and always. When my attention drifts and I am impressed by people or things that elevate pride, greed, envy and other sins, or think too much of myself (no humble bragging!), please guide me to refocus on You.
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Coming to mind, Oh How He Loves You and Me (Kurt Kaiser, 1975)
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SHARON JERSEY GIRL- praying for the Lord’s guidance for your church ❤️
CEE GEE – beautiful song, no matter the season ❤️
SUSAN BURLEY- thank you for sharing your prayer ❤️
TAYLOR – praying for your niece. Praying for inner strength and strengthened faith in God in ending of the relationship. You are not alone in struggling to stand firm on a decision you know is right – joining other sisters in admitting having that same difficulty in my younger years. And satan is relentless. The sins and temptations have changed as I’ve aged but he is always working to draw us away from our one true God. Let’s cling tightly to the Lord, little sister ❤️
KIMBERLY ❤️
MERCY ❤️
Yes Searching that sentence caught my attention as well. Also, 1 Samuel 15:21 where Saul blamed the people for not killing Agag and taking the sheep and other spoils caught my attention. So similar to Adam blaming Eve for eating the apple. How often do we deflect the blame to not take ownership of our own sin?
Yes, Searching.
Deception.
Deflection.
Damned.
Praying for all
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I know I can very easily fall into self-deception or self-righteousness, justifying my actions as ok when I know it is not what God has asked me to do. Yet I march on, trampling underfoot the grace and mercy I have in Jesus.
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“Does the Lord take pleasure in burnt offerings and sacrifices
as much as in obeying the Lord?
Look: to obey is better than sacrifice,
to pay attention is better than the fat of rams” (1 Sam. 15:22).
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SHARON JERSEY GIRL – I’m sorry that your church is struggling. May the Lord give your husband and the leaders wisdom in shepherding thesheep you have been intrusted with.
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TAYLOR HITE – prayers for your niece to have a full recovery and the stint to do its job.
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Hope you have a blessed day ❤️
❤️ amen
Yes, Kelly.
Of God, or of self.
Like you said, Kelly, “Yet I march on, trampling underfoot the grace and mercy I have in Jesus.”
Reminding me how opposite that is to an old hymn called: “I’m tramping trying to make heaven my home”!
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