How should believers respond to fear and uncertainty, unlike Saul in 1 Samuel 28? Setting the Scene: Saul’s Crisis of Fear • Israel’s king feels hemmed in by Philistine armies and God’s silence (1 Samuel 28:5–6). • Instead of repenting or waiting on the Lord, Saul crosses a clear line and seeks a medium, violating God’s law (Deuteronomy 18:10–12). • Samuel’s prophetic word seals the consequence: “Tomorrow you and your sons will be with me” (1 Samuel 28:19). Fear led Saul to disobedience, and disobedience led to judgment. What Went Wrong: Saul’s Faulty Responses • He panicked when circumstances looked impossible. • He ignored earlier warnings to remove the occult from the land (1 Samuel 28:3). • He refused to humble himself and wait for God’s direction. • He trusted a forbidden source instead of God’s Word. God’s Prescription for Fear • Trust God’s character. – “When I am afraid, I will trust in You” (Psalm 56:3–4). • Seek Him first in prayer. – “Be anxious for nothing… present your requests to God” (Philippians 4:6–7). • Remember His presence. – “Do not fear, for I am with you” (Isaiah 41:10). • Obey what you already know from Scripture. – “Trust in the LORD with all your heart… He will make your paths straight” (Proverbs 3:5–6). • Rely on His Spirit. – “God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-control” (2 Timothy 1:7). Practical Steps for Today • Pause and identify the fear instead of acting impulsively. • Open the Bible before opening any other source of counsel. • Pray aloud, casting the worry on Christ (1 Peter 5:7). • Recall past deliverances—personal and biblical—to strengthen faith. • Surround yourself with godly voices, not occult or worldly shortcuts. • Choose obedience even when answers seem delayed. Promises to Hold Onto • “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in times of trouble” (Psalm 46:1–2). • “The peace of God… will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:7). • “He will uphold you with His right hand of righteousness” (Isaiah 41:10). Summary: Choosing Faith over Fear Saul allowed fear to push him outside God’s will. Believers overcome fear by trusting the Lord, praying, obeying Scripture, and relying on the Holy Spirit. God offers peace that steadies the heart and guides the path—even when tomorrow looks uncertain. |
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