By Many or By Few

1 Samuel 14:1-14

Seeing Saul under a pomegranate tree, we would understand why Jonathan had to go. His father is doing nothing, going nowhere, with no plans or orders whatsoever. It’s as if they’re just waiting to be attacked and die. He knew he has to do something. Only he (and his father) has weapons. If he thought of asking for a sign, this one is as clear as water. With his skills and experience, if he will not take a shot, no one else will.  “Ok, that’s the WHO and WHAT part. Now HOW do I win it?” Woew, dead end! This is when he probably prayed. Uttering their hard pressed situation, maybe God made him remember how in history they were once trapped too. Moses was told to stretch out his hand, and the Sea was divided. All Israel safely crossed over while the entire army of Pharaoh was washed out.  Then there was Gideon and his 300, exactly half their size now, and yet God gave them victory over the Midianites. I can imagine a light bulb turning itself on above his head with this ray of hope. That’s it! We have a powerful God on our side, and we are His own. Nothing can hinder Him from saving whether by many or by few! No size, status, or strategy can assist His deliverance. It is never a question if He can, because He is able, but will He. That’s why Jonathan still sought a confirmation before the final climb to the outpost. His courage is dependent on and directed by Him alone.  Trusting God is not a one-stop-shop. We listen as we go. He delights in relationship, not formulas. What happened in this chapter is solely God’s work through Jonathan, not the other way around.

Personal Application:

What is in our hands? A good name gives us respect. Education accepts us to a position. Wealth allows us to move around. Health does that too. Relationships feel good. Will-power takes us to places. The Apostle Paul also had his hands full. A good lineage, an educated man, respected in the religious circle, hardworking, had days of plenty too. Yet he saw all these as rubbish compared to knowing Christ. No, he doesn’t mean these things are worthless in itself. Wealth is good, but taking it outside the context of God’s rule, we will labor in vain. We may be the strongest, most powerful man alive, but at His call, we’re out of breath. If we put our esteem and security on those that we love, sooner or later they’ll disappoint us too. Saul was disheartened to see a few men left on his side, Jonathan saw the odds too, but He saw a bigger God. Being alone did not discourage him, having the skills weren’t his confidence either. Life is not about what we have or don’t have. It’s Who we have, and in Christ, we’re always the majority!