This chapter shows David aligning himself with the Philistines. Because of the constant tension and danger from Saul, David made a decision to escape into Philistine territory. He rose early and went with about six hundred men, along with their families, to stay with Achish king of Gath. Eventually, Saul was informed that David had fled to Gath.
This raises an important question: who was keeping Saul updated about David’s movements? We often say news travels fast, but in reality, information spreads through people. It depends on who knows what and who they tell. This is a reminder to be mindful of our circles.
Who do you have around you?
And who do they have around them?
Sometimes, sensitive information can be passed along unknowingly and end up in the wrong hands.
David requested a place to stay from Achish, saying that if he had found favour, he should not dwell in the royal city. Achish granted him Ziklag, which later became an inheritance for the kings of Judah. David stayed there for a year and four months.
One key lesson here is the importance of speaking up when in need. David asked, and he received favour. What he received didn’t just benefit him, it became a lasting inheritance for generations.
During this time, David went on raids against various groups. He struck the land but left no survivors, taking livestock and goods. When Achish asked where he had raided, David gave answers that indicate he was in danger. Achish believed him and thought David had become hated by his own people, assuming David would remain loyal to him forever.
It seems Achish saw value in David, whether out of fear or respect for his reputation as a warrior. This shows that favour can sometimes come from what people know about you. However, not all favour comes with pure intentions. Sometimes people extend favour based on what they think they can gain.
1 Samuel 28 – Saul and the Medium
In this chapter, the Philistines gathered to fight against Israel. Achish told David that he and his men would go out to battle with him, and even appointed David as one of his chief guards.
It is striking to see how David, who once defeated Goliath and fought against the Philistines, is now positioned to fight alongside them. This situation largely stems from Saul’s actions. His hostility pushed David, the very man who should have been defending Israel, into the camp of the enemy.
This highlights the power of leadership. When leadership is flawed, it can drive gifted people away.
Those meant to protect and build can end up working against what they were called to serve, simply because they have lost peace and purpose.
At this point, Samuel had died, and he was the prominent prophet in Israel. Yet, God was still present. Instead of seeking God wholeheartedly, Saul turned to mediums and spiritists.
This is a powerful reminder: people of God may pass on, but God remains. It is important to build a direct relationship with Him so that we are not dependent on others to hear from Him.
When the Philistines camped against Israel, Saul inquired of the Lord, but God did not answer him
neither by dreams nor by prophets. The truth is, we cannot divide our allegiance. We cannot turn to other sources and then expect God to respond on demand. We must choose whom we will serve.
In today’s world, “mediums” may not always look traditional.
They can be the things that dominate our attention our phones, television, and other distractions that control our thoughts and influence our decisions. If we are not careful, they can interfere with how we hear from God.
Saul disguised himself and went by night to consult a medium. He even swore by the Lord that no harm would come to her. Through her, he called up the spirit of Samuel.
This is still relevant today. Sometimes people claim to see deceased relatives or spiritual figures in dreams giving instructions. Without discernment, they follow blindly. It is important to understand that not every spiritual encounter is from God.
When Samuel's spirit appeared, he questioned Saul, reminding him that the Lord had departed from him because of his disobedience. He told Saul that the kingdom had been taken from him and that Israel would be delivered into the hands of the Philistines. He also revealed that Saul and his sons would die the next day.
This is a sobering moment Saul’s actions led him to this point. Sometimes, people bring trouble upon themselves through persistent disobedience. And in some cases, consequences extend beyond one person and affect generations.
There are issues that can run through family lines, but God is able to intervene. A life fully surrendered to Him can break patterns and prevent destruction.
Before Saul left, the woman prepared a meal for him and his servants almost like a final meal.
Saul’s life is not one to emulate. He began with grace but ended in spiritual confusion. His story shows that disobedience has serious consequences not just for the individual, but for others connected to them.
Today, many people live without reverence for God, assuming there are no consequences. But unless God shows mercy, every action carries weight.
I pray that God guides us and helps us avoid decisions that can derail destiny, in Jesus’ name. Amen.
