Actions speak louder than words

1 Samuel 24.1-22

Reference: v. 17 “You are more righteous than I,” Saul said. “You have treated me well, but I have treated you badly.”

Explore: David has just spared Saul’s life for the first time. He could have killed him fairly easily and yet didn’t. When David proved to Saul his grace, Saul was very humbled and acknowledged his greatness. However, if we know anything about King Saul’s story we know that he tries again to find David and kill him. So while he was wrapped up in the moment of being saved, he spoke words of affirmation to David. However, when it came down to it, Saul was not changed at all because his future actions did not change.

Application: We all have times of enlightenment in our lives. Something happens that changes our course or that allows us to see a better way of living. These moments can be powerful and poignant. However, while the wisdom we receive in that moment can be eye-opening, it really doesn’t mean anything unless we put it into action in the future. Saul’s declaration of David was honourable and yet his actions didn’t change, therefore his heart had not been changed. Unless our future actions change and back up the wisdom that has been revealed to us, then we are worse off from never having received the wisdom in the first place.

Prayer: Lord, I read your word, I gain your wisdom, I know what I should do and yet I do the opposite. Help me to stay true to the wisdom you have so generously given. Amen.

1 Samuel