1 Chronicles 10:14
“And inquired not of the LORD: therefore he slew him, and turned the kingdom unto David the son of Jesse.”
This verse is part of the concluding section of 1 Chronicles chapter 10, which describes the demise of King Saul, the first king of Israel. Saul’s tragic end is recounted, highlighting his disobedience to the Lord and the consequences that followed.
To better understand the significance of this verse, let’s examine the broader context. In the preceding verses, it is revealed that Saul had sought counsel from a medium, contrary to God’s explicit command to not consult mediums or engage in witchcraft (Leviticus 19:31, Deuteronomy 18:10-12). Instead of seeking guidance from the Lord, Saul resorted to consulting the deceased prophet Samuel through the medium of Endor.
This act of disobedience had severe consequences. God had withdrawn His favour from Saul due to his repeated disobedience and rebellion. In 1 Chronicles 10:14, the verse states, “And inquired not of the LORD: therefore he slew him, and turned the kingdom unto David the son of Jesse.”
This verse reveals that because Saul failed to seek the Lord’s guidance and acted in disobedience, God allowed him to be slain in battle against the Philistines. The phrase “and inquired not of the LORD” underscores Saul’s failure to rely on God and seek His will. As a result, the kingdom was taken away from Saul and given to David, the son of Jesse.
This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of seeking the Lord’s guidance, relying on His wisdom, and following His commands. Saul’s downfall illustrates the consequences of disobedience and the significance of acknowledging God’s authority in our lives.
From a broader perspective, this verse also connects to the larger narrative of God’s plan to establish David as the future king of Israel. It marks a pivotal moment in the transition from Saul’s reign to David’s anointing as king, setting the stage for the events that unfold in the subsequent chapters of 1 Chronicles and the books of Samuel.
