Today's reading concludes 1 Samuel and describes the end of Saul's life and kingship. Ironically, 1 Samuel begins with Israel in a similar condition to what they were in when 1 Samuel began. They had no leader then and have no leader now. The Philistines constantly attacked and occupied their cities then, and the book ends with the Philistines attacking Israel, killing their king Saul and his sons, and occupying their city. Samuel has already died, so they don't have the benefit of his spiritual leadership. David had been living in Philistine in fear of Saul and although he has been secretly anointed king, he has not taken the throne.
This condition was brought about by the disobedience of Saul and his obsession with killing David. Saul was a great leader but he did not rely on God, instead he relied on what he thought was best and only consulted the Lord when it was convenient. He is so far removed from God's presence near the end of his life that he resorts to consulting a medium (a witch) to call up Samuel's spirit. It is interesting to note that even though Samuel was dead, he still preached the same message to Saul and still was a prophet. He prophecies (accurately) Saul and his son's deaths.
David, because of Saul's relentless pursuit, goes into exile in Philistine. Only divine intervention prevents David from attacking his own people in the war that King Asich of Philistine wages that takes Saul's life. After living in a city in Philistine and taking revenge on the Amalekites for burning that city, Ziklag, and taking his wives, David finally plans a return to Judah.
May God bless you and bless the reading of His Word
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