What can we learn about honoring leaders from 1 Samuel 31:11? Text in focus “ When the residents of Jabesh Gilead heard what the Philistines had done to Saul, ” (1 Samuel 31:11) Why Jabesh-gilead cared • About thirty years earlier Saul had rescued their city from Nahash the Ammonite (1 Samuel 11:1-11). • His deliverance knit their hearts to him in lasting gratitude. • Even after Saul’s failures, they still recognized him as the LORD’s anointed (1 Samuel 24:6; 26:11). • News that Philistines had mutilated his body (31:8-10) stirred righteous indignation and a resolve to honor him properly. • Their action required a night march through enemy-held territory (31:12)—real risk, real courage. What honoring leaders looks like 1. Gratitude outlives disappointment • Saul’s reign ended tragically, yet the men of Jabesh did not cancel his earlier kindness. • Proverbs 17:13 warns against repaying good with evil; they chose the opposite. 2. Respect for God-given office • “You shall not curse a ruler of your people” (Exodus 22:28). • Saul’s office was still established by God (1 Samuel 10:1). Honoring him honored the LORD who appointed him. 3. Tangible action, not mere sentiment • They did not post condolences; they rescued, carried, burned, and buried (31:12-13). • James 2:16 reminds us that real honor shows up in deeds. 4. Courage under pressure • Honoring leaders may cost something—time, reputation, even safety (Romans 13:3-4 speaks of bearing the sword). • Their bravery foreshadows believers who “obey your leaders and submit to them” even when costly (Hebrews 13:17). 5. Loyalty that inspires others • David later blessed them: “May you be blessed by the LORD, because you showed this loyalty” (2 Samuel 2:5-6). • God notices and rewards those who honor authority. Principles we can carry forward • Remember past mercies—honor those God has used to bless you, even if their story ends imperfectly. • Separate a leader’s failures from the office God assigned; uphold the office while praying for repentance (1 Timothy 2:1-2). • Let respect move beyond words to concrete support—letters, help, defending reputations when unfairly attacked. • Show courage: stand for biblical respect when culture ridicules authority. • Trust that God, not people, ultimately vindicates honor given for His sake (1 Peter 2:17-19). Echoes across Scripture • David refusing to strike Saul—same reverence for “the LORD’s anointed” (1 Samuel 26:9-11). • Romans 13:1—“There is no authority except from God.” • 1 Peter 2:17—“Honor the king.” • Hebrews 13:7—“Remember your leaders… imitate their faith.” • 2 Timothy 2:1—heritage of gratitude: “be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus.” Jabesh-gilead models a heart that sees leadership through God’s eyes—grateful, courageous, and ready to honor even when it costs. |
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