Contemplative Bible Reading

1 Samuel 14:52 (New Living Translation)

The Israelites fought constantly with the Philistines throughout Saul’s lifetime. So whenever Saul observed a young man who was brave and strong, he drafted him into his army.

As predicted, if Israel had a King, the King would take the young men into war.

I guess God knew what He was saying when he warned the Israelites of the danger of a King. God knew what all Kings in all times in all peoples would do—consume the young, brave men in their wars.

It is a shame we haven’t learned this one.