This chapter is nearly identical to 1 Sam 31, describing the deaths of Saul and his sons with a few minor differences, and one major difference.
“So Saul died for his breach of faith. He broke faith with the Lord in that he did not keep the command of the Lord, and also consulted a medium, seeking guidance. He did not seek guidance from the Lord. Therefore the Lord put him to death and turned the kingdom over to David the son of Jesse.” (v13-14)
The major difference between 1 Sam 31 and this chapter is a conclusion that explains Saul’s royal lineage died for a reason – his breach of faith. The editor of Chronicles added this conclusion as a warning, and for background information, knowing that this book does not contain the same context as 1 Samuel.
I believe all of scripture is available to us for our growth and learning – even the “bad things” in scripture. Nobody would describe any of the deaths recorded in scripture (especially the gruesome ones like Saul’s) as “good”. Yet, they are in “the Good Book” (ie. the Bible).
It is as if God wanted these terrible things included in scripture as warnings – “Do not follow in the footsteps of these people and disregard Me, because it won’t end well.”
On the flip side of that, we have many good examples as well, including (but not limited to) Joseph, Daniel, and Jesus. These good examples are also useful for our growth and learning as Christ followers (especially since Jesus is the one we’re supposed to follow).
Paul tells us: “All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.” (2 Tim 3:16-17)
My encouragement for today is to listen to the Holy Spirit’s promptings in our hearts when we read/hear any scripture, and seek to learn what He is trying to teach us. Whether we’re experiencing an example of what we should do, or what we should not do, we can focus on obeying the Lord from whom all scripture comes. Let’s embrace our faith in God, not breach it like Saul, and experience the learning God has for us.
Father God, our source of all wisdom and discernment, great and mighty is Your name. Heaven and earth proclaim the majesty of Your works, and our hearts proclaim the depth of Your teaching. May You continue to patiently teach us, as we fumble in our attempts to mirror Jesus. Please be gracious and merciful when we fail, and gentle as You teach, for we are slow to learn. We dedicate ourselves to Your guidance and teaching, praising Your holy name, forever and ever, amen.
~ Conqueror in Training