Saul had a bright future that by all accounts was full of opportunity. When we first read of him he’s portrayed as a likable underdog who doesn’t seem to see his own potential, proven in his own words (1 Sam. 9.17-21). He was a nobody from a small tribe, but tall and kingly in appearance and his success would depend on who he listened to— not unlike us today.
God anoints him as king and like every anointed king that we read of in the Old Testament, he influenced the nation’s relationship with God. In hindsight, we’re able to see God’s wisdom. God wanted judges. A judge spoke on behalf of God while carrying out His will for a time and then left. A king would always be more susceptible to various forms of corruption that come with the vast amount of power given to him. No matter how the rulers would live their lives, good or bad, we can learn much.
Sadly, Saul is one of those kings who taught us how not to live. Here’s a list of the many spiritual dangers we should avoid— brought to you by Saul.
Saul’s Seven Deadly Sins
I SAMUEL
- The sin of lacking patience – 13.8
- The sin of excuse-making – 13.11, 12; 15:15, 20, 24
- The sin of half-hearted service – 15.1-26
- The sin of glorifying self – 15.12
- The sin of fearing men rather than God – 15.15, 24
- The sin of desiring forgiveness from man rather than God – 15.25
- The sin of jealousy – 18.6-9
There are many other mistakes and shortcomings that accumulated in Saul’s physical and spiritual demise, but we can be strengthened by them (Rom. 15.4).
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