There’s something sobering about reading the end of King Saul’s story in 1 Samuel. He started out with so much potential, tall, strong, chosen by God, and admired by the people. But his life ended in defeat, disgrace, and darkness.
What happened? Saul ignored God. Over and over, God gave him opportunities to obey. But instead of surrendering, Saul compromised. He cared more about appearances than obedience, and when God went silent, Saul didn’t repent, he sought a witch.
“He inquired of the Lord, but the Lord did not answer him…” (1 Sam. 28:6)
Why? Because Saul never acted on what God had already said. God had removed the kingdom from him, but instead of humbling himself, Saul clung to power. He even had 85 innocent priests slaughtered but refused to kill the guilty Amalekites. He disguised himself to visit the medium of Endor, revealing who he had become on the inside.
What Can We Learn from Saul’s Death?
- Rebellion disconnects you from God.
Saul consulted the dead because he had stopped listening to the Living God. When we turn to substitutes, whether it’s horoscopes, psychics, or our own wisdom, we invite deception into our lives. The Bible is clear:“Do not turn to mediums or consult spiritists” (Lev. 19:31). - Disobedience has consequences.
Saul’s final battle wasn’t just lost on the battlefield; it was lost in his heart long before. He died by suicide, his sons died beside him, and his body was hung on a wall as a trophy by the enemy.Sin will take you farther than you want to go and cost you more than you want to pay. - Silence doesn’t mean God is absent, it may mean He’s waiting on your obedience.
We drown out God with noise and entertainment, then blame Him for being silent. But God had already spoken to Saul, he just didn’t want to obey. - You can end well, but you must choose a different path.
There’s a reason the Bible gives such contrast between Saul and David. Saul was religious but rebellious. David was flawed but surrendered. Psalm 13 shows us David’s heart:“How long, Lord?”…“But I trust in your unfailing love.”
From Darkness to Deliverance
Saul’s death looked like the end. But it wasn’t the end of the story. Just like Golgotha looked like the end for Jesus, until Sunday morning. The tomb is empty. “He is not here; He is risen!” (Matt. 28:6)
Saul’s body was nailed to a wall and Jesus was nailed to a cross.
Saul’s death paved the way for a new day and Jesus’ death made all things new!
Saul’s death ended an era of disobedience and failure, and Jesus’ death ended the era of the law of guilt and brought a new covenant of grace!
Jesus went into the darkness, so you don’t have to stay there. Where Saul’s death ended in shame, Jesus’ death ended in victory. Because of Jesus, you can recover everything the enemy has taken, just like David did (1 Sam. 30:18)! You don’t have to finish like Saul. You don’t have to carry the weight of your past or the silence you feel from God. Today is the day to seek the Lord while He may be found (Isaiah 55:6).
If you’re ready to take that step, we’d love to help. You can plan your visit to one of our campuses or simply fill out our connect card. We’re here to walk with you—because there is hope, there is healing, and there is a Deliverer.
Works Consulted:
Tony Evans Commentary
A Tale of 3 Kings
1 Samuel Davis
1 Samuel 28, Mills
1 Samuel 28, Greear
1 Samuel Truth for Life
Life of David, Olford
Life of David, Swindoll
