From Provocation to Preeminence

And Saul also went home to Gibeah; and valiant men went with him, whose hearts God had touched. But some rebels said “How can this man save us?” So they despised him, and brought him no presents. But he held his peace. 1^st Samuel 10:26-27

Some of us have experienced situations where when elevated to a position of leadership we have encountered jealous provocation from others, either passive-aggressively, or in outright hostility.

There was a band of men whose hearts and minds were locked in rebellion against Saul for no other reason than he was appointed to a position of leadership. The king James Version calls them ”sons of Belial” which seem to sum it up nicely. “Belial” is translated as ‘without profit, worthless, and wicked.’ They were scoundrels and troublemakers.

Wisely, Saul held his peace, not acting rashly (Proverbs 14:17). I have found in my own experience God has a way of cutting through this kind of thing when I trusted Him, and Saul’s heart still trusted Him. God was about to take him from provocation to preeminence.

The Ammonite people, enemies of Israel, came against the Israelites in Jabesh Gilead. The Jews immediately capitulated and asked for a treaty instead. The Ammonite king, Nahash, said he would agree on the condition of the Ammonites gouging out the right eyes of the Jabesh Jews as an insult (disgrace) on Israel. The Jews said, “Give us seven days to send for help. If no one rescues us, we will surrender to you.” (v11:3). Amazingly, Nahash gave his permission, for the people of Jabesh Gilead immediately sent messengers to their fellow Jews asking for help.

When Saul heard what the Ammonites had done, he was furious, and as Samuel had prophesied their king would conscript thousands into the army. Saul led them against Nahash, and God gave Israel a great victory over the Ammonites, saving the people of Jabesh Gilead.

When all was said and done Saul had solidified his power and people were calling for the execution of those fellows who had rebelled against the king. But Saul refused for it was a day of thanksgiving to God for having rescued Israel. Samuel brought the people to Gilgal and there they renewed Saul’s kingship.

Why spend time studying things outside of the New Testament? Aren’t we supposed to be about spreading the gospel and not looking back? Yes, we are called to share the gospel, yet it is always good to remember that God says, I am the LORD and I change not” (Malachi 3:6). It is written of Jesus Himself, as Deity, God in human flesh, He is the same yesterday [in history], today [present], and forever [in-the never-ending future] (Hebrews 13:8).

There is none like Him who is so fully faithful and true. He will be your shield, your glory, and the lifter of your head (Psalm 3:3). He is with you to the end of the age (Matthew 28:20). Believe Him, trust Him, and rest in Him. He can overcome every provocation set against you today if you trust Him through your circumstances. In His time, He can completely and easily lift you to preeminence, for He never changes.

Ken

Jesus, I am in a very tough place where others are making my life hard and difficult. I really do want You to work on hearts and minds to their good, remembering You love them as much as You love me. Help me to believe, trust and rest in the reality of Your love that never changes. I am so appreciative You can raise me from provocation to preeminence and that in all things You remain the Same. Thank You for Your loving devotion. Amen.