There’s something within the human condition that seems to enjoy seeing others fail, especially if those who fail were previously successful. For instance, we might celebrate seeing a top sports team fall from their lofty perch after a long period of success. About time too, and other phrases come to mind.
So it is when we read about Saul—the man chosen as king over Israel and anointed by the prophet Samuel. Later we see him fall from grace, make mistakes, and come to an inglorious end (1 Samuel 31:8-9). “Serves him right!” “He got it wrong and got what he deserved!” Such comments are common today in Christian circles. But look at how differently the men of Jabesh-gilead saw things. They heard of Saul’s death, and all the valiant men went out, at considerable risk, and took down his body so that he could be buried properly (1 Samuel 31:11-13). They showed him enormous respect even in death; they honored him.
Why? We find the answer when we read 1 Samuel 11:1-13 and see that it was Saul who came to the rescue of the besieged and hopeless people of Jabesh-gilead. It was he who commanded those who could fight to rally around him and go out to defend the people. The Scripture says, “The Spirit of God came powerfully upon Saul” (1 Samuel 11:6).
And they never forgot him. They remained grateful and honored the man who had rescued them, even though he later got it wrong. Now that’s class! We could all learn from their behavior. For it’s so easy to condemn those who fall away, who don’t stay the course. But God reveals that no matter what happens to people, we should always do the honorable thing and remember the good rather than pointing fingers at their failings. In doing so, we honor Him.
NLT 365-day reading plan passage for today: Acts 11:19-29
More:
Read 1 Samuel 11:1-15. How many times have you read this story and brushed over Jabesh-gilead as simply a place?
Next:
How does God’s grace affect the way we should see those who fail? How does our respect for others bring Him honor?
Gary Shultz on October 26, 2015 at 6:36 am
If I may, I started replying to these blogs because I thought it an encouragement to those who took time to consider and write these articles. I wanted to acknowledge their work and thank them. As I tried to be somewhat regular in doing that, I found that in replying it caused me to better clarify my thoughts as to why I believed in a certain way. This article made me twitch a little, but after some strain, at least for me, I think I can roll with your conclusion on the subject. Not that this is a great or defining confirmation, but you folks help me move through my little part of the world with more, knowledge, gratefulness and graciousness. I hope that is the case for many readers. Thanks for the challenges, thanks for the help………. I even read the clip on your dogs. Woof.
russell fralick on November 3, 2015 at 10:12 am
Thanks for your comments Gary. I find that when someone says or writes something that at first grates with my previously held convictions or beliefs, it can often help me to either confirm my initial position, or more often move a little or a lot from my erstwhile dogma! Either way, the process of “iron sharpening iron” has been a great way for me to mature, though it has rarely been an easy way! Thanks for your openness and your encouragement.
And thanks for checking out the blog! I’ll be writing more soon.
Tom Felten on October 26, 2015 at 9:32 am
Russell, I’m continually blessed and amazed by God’s grace. When we experience its fullness in our lives, it’s so much easier to pour it out on others, and to do what is best for each person.
Winn Collier on October 28, 2015 at 5:34 pm
I’ve always felt compassion for Saul.
russell fralick on November 3, 2015 at 10:15 am
Good for you Winn. I conversely, come from a background that would sneer and snort at him! It was quite a revelation to be shown the example of the men described here, and chastened me somewhat. Saul is a sad story, and one that should bring out of us profound humility and gratitude, to the God that saves us and sustains us through all of life’s temptations and from all of the inherent failings of our personalities.