Daily Devotional for Monday, July 24

The Misery of King Saul

“But the Spirit of the Lord departed from Saul, and an evil spirit from the Lord troubled him,” 1Samuel 16:14.

This is one of the earliest times in the scripture when we find God send and evil spirit to trouble a man, but it is not the last.  Later in the days of the kings, God told a spirit to “go forth and do so” when the spirit suggested he would be a lying spirit in the mouth of Ahab’s prophets (1 Kings 22:22). It is important that we remember even in Saul’s misery that there is no sin in God (1 John 3). He never misses the mark of the standard of His high character. God is also never tempted by evil and never tempts anyone (James 1:13). God is sovereign, though, and even the most rebellious of spirits is subject to His use and purposes. 

Many are the troubles in life and the cares they bring weigh heavily on the mind and body.  Often this misery can be eased when Godly people minister in your life.  This seems to be the thought of Saul’s servants who suggested a musician might sooth the king.  Saul is obviously afflicted; ministering to those with mental health issues can be a challenge.  

God never places someone into your life without intending to use you for the ministry of the Gospel of reconciliation.  No matter what their state of mind and heart, God will be with you as you minister to them. God had been preparing David for just such an opportunity.  He was skillful in playing, a mighty man of war, prudent in matters and handsome as well.  He would need all these things to minister in Saul’s life.  Even in Saul’s misery, God provided mercy through David.

THOUGHT: Have you been placed in their life to ease their misery?

David Thompson