Have you ever stopped to think about or notice the similarities between Saul and David?
[1 and 2 Samuel]
Both were chosen by God to be King of Israel.
Both stood out in a crowd…though for different reasons.
Both were called and Anointed by God’s judge Samuel.
Both listened to God.
Both disobeyed God.
Both continued to communicate with God after they fell.
And still...
One was given complete grace and called “a man after God’s own heart”…while the other was cursed by God and utterly abandoned.
One spared the lives of people he had set out to kill, and was cursed… while the other committed both adultery and murder, yet was blessed.
Doesn’t seem quite fair does it?
Why would God favor one who showed mercy to his enemies over another who would kill to hide the truth? Why would he forgive murder, and turn his back on compassion?
The answer is simple...it all boils down to how they responded to God.
Saul chose to listen to God, BUT acted out fear. He lived his life concerned with how others viewed him and his leadership….afraid of “not being liked or respected by others.” His choices were made based on earthly standards and societal views.
David chose to listen to God THEN acted out of respect. He made mistakes in his life, and knew that God was to be obeyed in spite of how others would view him. His choices ultimately led him to repent of his sin and show remorse for what he had done.
What about you? How do you respond to God…BUT or THEN?
Does Christ view you more as a David or a Saul?
Now that you know, what are you going to do about it?
