Daily Bible Reading — Sustained by God’s Word of PromisePrimjer

July 18

Introduction

Today’s reading recounts the death of Saul and his sons. Saul was supposed to be the one who would rescue Israel from the Philistines (see 1 Samuel 9:16), but he is fatally wounded. He kills himself in order to avoid being humiliated and tortured.

Today’s Scripture: 1 Samuel 31:13 (GNT)

Then they took the bones and buried them under the tamarisk tree in town, and fasted for seven days.

Today’s Reading 

1 Samuel 31:1-13

Reflect

Saul told his servant, his weapons carrier, to kill him, but the servant refused, perhaps because he knew that God would punish anyone who killed God’s chosen king (1 Samuel 26:9). The servant then killed himself in the same manner as Saul. It was common in the ancient world for a military leader’s servant to kill himself when his master died in battle. What are your thoughts about this practice? What had the Philistines done to Saul’s body? What did the people of Jabesh do?

Pray

Lord God, You are loving and merciful. Watch over and protect all who may be in harm’s way this day. Surround them with Your steadfast love and care. Amen.

Prayer Concern

Those serving in the armed forces.

Tomorrow’s Reading

2 Samuel 1:1-27: David learns of Saul’s death.