The way forward!
Saul was anointed king over Israel and then opposition breaks out against Jabesh Gilead. When Saul was named king there were rebels who spoke poorly of Saul. Now, the Spirit of God comes upon Saul to lead the people to protect Jabesh Gilead.
After Israel's defeat of the Ammonites the people were encouraged, but they also remembered those who spoke ill of Saul, "Then the people said to Samuel, "Who is he that said, 'Shall Saul reign over us?' Bring the men, that we may put them to death."" (1 Sam 11:12). Yet Saul said, "Not a man shall be put to death this day, for today the Lord has accomplished deliverance in Israel."" 1 Sam 11:13
The way forward wasn't avenging enemies but uniting for the furtherance of the kingdom. We must remember vengeance is the Lord's. The path to peace & victory is unity. We don't need to get hung up on revenge, be bitter, or accuse our opposers, but walk in humility & grace.
Could you image Jesus on the way to the cross pointing fingers at His betrayers or telling people they would get what's coming to them? Jesus said, "Father forgive them..." Let's spend less time bashing people or taking revenge and more time showing the grace and love of Jesus.
-To Know Jesus. To Live on Mission.