1 Samuel 11 - Save Us!

After living in compromise for years the people of Jabesh Gilead find themselves overpowered by a ruthless enemy. In an effort to negotiate with the enemy they offer a treaty to become slaves, but the enemy requires their bodies to be mutilated. The men from Jabesh-Gilead ask for 7 days to consider the terms of surrender. 

If ever there was a people in need of a savior, it was them.  Nahash is a picture of our own enemy, sin. Far too often we compromise and allow sin to coexist in our lives and don't stand against it. The Israelites were willing to become slaves to Nahash and serve him all their days. But Nahash, like sin, takes them a little deeper than they ever wanted to go. He wanted to maim them and leave a visible testimony of his mastery over them. 

The people send word to Saul who gathers forces and delivers the people. He was overcome by the Spirit of God and anger for the enemy and the humiliation of his brothers burned in him. He must go save them. 

Saul is a picture of Christ for us. When we were mired down deep in sin and had no hope of deliverance, Jesus came and stood in the gap. He did battle with Satan and paid a ransom for us with his own blood. He deserves our loyalty and our worship. It is God's power at work that gives us a hope of eternity in Heaven and allows us to stand against sin here. 

We too are that representation of Chrits on the world. There are people all around bound in sin and are crying out for hope. We have the power within us to come to their aid if only we would have that same hatred of the enemy that Saul did in this passage. We can bring that message of salvation. Our neighbors, relatives and friends can have the hope that Jesus blood is all sufficient to cover their sins too. 

Don't compromise with sin, but put on the full armor of God that you may stand against the enemy's tactics. While you are at it, protect your lost loved ones and encourage them to trust Jesus for themselves. 

May God richly bless you as you seek Him and as you serve Him.