06.22.2025 | Saul Rescued Israel
1 Samuel 11-13
The American Bison is the largest mammal in North America, weighing up to 2,000 pounds! While their size is impressive, the way they protect one another is even more amazing. When danger is near, the herd of bison will circle around the young calves and weaker bison to protect them. The herd sticks together to keep every member safe!
In 1 Samuel 11, the people of Jabesh were terrified when the Ammonite army surrounded their city. The men knew they were not strong enough to fight. Their only hope was for someone to come with help to save them, so they called on Saul. Saul gathered men from across Israel and Judah. Like bison who protect one another, the people came together to fight. God helped the men defeat the Ammonites and save the city of Jabesh.
Even though God had used Saul to keep the Israelites safe and deliver them from their enemy, Saul struggled to obey God. When he faced the Philistine army, Saul didn’t wait for Samuel and tried to make an offering to God, which was only allowed by priests. Samuel told Saul that God would soon choose another king to replace Saul—a king who would be a man after God’s own heart.
God would give the people a new king, but the ultimate promise was to send Jesus who is the greatest King. When we needed an even greater rescue, God sent Jesus to save us from sin and deliver all those who believe in Him! When we realize all Jesus has done to save us, our response should be to worship Him as the King of kings!
Saul defeated enemy armies for Israel but failed to obey God. Jesus defeated our greatest enemies––sin and death––and always obeyed God. All who trust in Jesus will be saved and receive changed hearts that desire to obey God.
