Jonathan prays

I Samuel, Chapter 14.  Phew!  What a long chapter, and somewhat rambling, I reckon.  We are formally introduced to Jonathan, Saul’s son. He had been mentioned in passing in previous chapters and seems a more likely candidate for kingship than his father! 

He and his armour bearer got their thought right before undertaking a raid on the Philistines – “it may be that the Lord will work for us: for there is no restraint to the Lord to save by many or by a few.” I love it! They accomplished their mission and had already slain about twenty men before Saul woke up that something was afoot. Saul made an attempt to call on God – with the ark of God, but the case seemed to be urgent so he told the priest to “Withdraw thine hand.” The battle was joined and Israel was saved that day. 

I am somewhat confused about why Saul demanded that no man should eat. Anyway, Jonathan didn’t hear the edict and ate some honey which gave him energy and brightness. Saul eventually discovered this “sin” and Jonathan would have died at his father’s order, but the people rescued him. They said, “he hath wrought with God this day.” (More than his father had done!)

Saul’s children are named here – including Michal, who we will hear more of later, I know.

Saul’s life was one of war against the Philistines – he recruited all the strong and valiant men to his army.