I Samuel 14: 47-48 & 52
“Saul extended his rule, capturing neighboring kingdoms. He fought enemies on every front—Moab, Ammon, Edom, the king of Zobah, the Philistines. Wherever he turned, he came up with a victory. He became invincible! He smashed Amalek, freeing Israel from the savagery and looting.
All through Saul’s life there was war, bitter and relentless, with the Philistines. Saul conscripted every strong and brave man he laid eyes on.”
“Now when Saul had secured his grasp on Israel’s throne, he fought against his enemies in every direction- against Moab, Ammon, Edom, the kinds of Zobah, and the Philistines. And wherever he turned, he was victorious. He performed great deeds and conquered the Amalekites, saving Israel from all those who had plundered them.
The Israelites fought constantly with the Philistines throughout Saul’s lifetime. So when ever Saul observed a young man who was brave and strong, he drafted him into his army”
This is a bright spot amidst the sad biblical record of Saul’s life. God used him to successfully protect Israel from her neighbors, though it took a bitter toll on her people. All of us are a little like Saul, falling short of God’s best for us. Yet God’s purpose still goes forward. Look for the bright spots in a dim situation, evidence of God’s continued presence regardless our failures.
Lord, forgive me for falling short in so many ways. I am broken with sin. I fail, but your purpose does not and somehow you still use my poor performance to accomplish your good on the earth. Your loving presence surrounds me still. You are truly a mighty God.