Ready... Set?

1 Samuel 13:16-22

               

Let’s take some inventory here:

Commanding officer?

‘Check. He’s a bit cranky though. 
We heard Samuel say that he’ll be replaced soon’.

Soldiers?

‘Check. Six hundred to date, and quaking in fear’.

How many enemies are you facing here again?

‘Three thousand chariots with two charioteers each, 
and foot soldiers as numerous as the sand.’

And your weapons?

‘Just two. Only the king and his son had them. 
Haven’t you heard? There’s no blacksmith in Israel!’

Whatttt?! Waging war without weapons??!! What was Saul thinking (and NOT doing!) First, he failed in protecting ALL their blacksmiths either from death or captivity. There was no mention as to how long they’ve been suffering from this loss. It could be that during Samuel’s leadership, they saw no urgency to meet this need since God has been fighting for them. But knowing this downside, how could a king provoke an enemy to a battle? He could have at least strategized a rescue mission first, or maybe start an underground steel and iron school somewhere.  Second, he allowed his nation to be demeaned by going down the enemy lines even for basic tool sharpening. He’s given the other side the favor of increasing their morale with this vulnerability, not to mention that they get paid for it! It seems they’re now financing Philistines rise to power.  Are there really no other neighboring lands to go to instead? Third is giving a GO to this war without a plan. Obviously he never sat down to count the cost for who could miss it? Hand in hand with food in a basic survival kit is security, and if Saul couldn’t provide that, they’re all dead meat in no time. But let’s not put the blame on Saul alone. It was the result of Israel’s sin of asking for a king. They sought independence from the One who can win their every battle without a need for swords or spears. Like a prodigal son naive of the perils of real life, Israel bragged they could do well on their own. Let’ see how this will end. The God of the impossible is still on His people’s side, waiting for their call. At the sight of the returning son, He even ran. The sooner we admit it, the safer we’ll be :>

 Application:

What is worse than not coming on time? Agree with me that it’s coming unprepared. Imagine blocking your calendar for a meeting and the main man comes with no presentation on hand. Doubly irritating when he babbles his way out, trying to sound sensible and ‘prepared’! Wouldn’t it be best if students really study in advance before attending class? Aren’t we supposed to be ready to praise and with all-set tithes on Sundays? Shouldn’t instrumentalists come jazzed up to every rehearsal? How many wives still take time to look good (or at least take a bath? hahaha!) in time for their husband's return from work :> If we want results, we have to spell process. If we’re eyeing to win, we have to be armed for battle. Five of the ten virgins were foolish to take their lamps with no oil in them.  When the bridegroom came, only those who were ready went in with him in the wedding and the door was shut. Warm ups are crucial for a run. We have to take time.