1 Samuel 13:3-4 “an abomination”

 ”And Jonathan attacked the garrison of the Philistines that was in Geba, and the Philistines heard of it. Then Saul blew the trumpet throughout all the land, saying, “Let the Hebrews hear!” Now all Israel heard it said that Saul had attacked a garrison of the Philistines, and that Israel had also become an abomination to the Philistines. And the people were called together to Saul at Gilgal.“

‭‭I Samuel‬ ‭13‬:‭3‬-‭4‬ ‭NKJV‬‬

a. Jonathan attacked the garrison of the Philistines: Jonathan was a remarkable military leader. He repeatedly demonstrated the ability to lead a successful attack. Yet this attack merely wakened the Philistines. Israel had enjoyed the “peace” of subjected people: everything will be fine as long as you take your place of subjugation. Through this attack Jonathan proclaimed, “We won’t meekly surrender to the Philistines any longer.”

i. It clearly says, Israel had also become an abomination to the Philistines. As long as the Israelites stayed in their weak, defeated place, the Philistines thought they were good people. As soon as the Israelites showed boldness and courage against the LORD’s enemies, the Philistines considered the Israelites an abomination.

ii. The same principle is true spiritually in our lives. We don’t war against armies of Philistines; our enemies are principalities…powers…the rulers of the darkness of this age…spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places (Ephesians 6:12). But our spiritual enemies have the same attitude as the Philistines. As long as we are weak and subjected to our spiritual enemies, they don’t mind us at all. They may even see us positively. But as soon as we show some boldness and courage against the LORD’s enemies, our spiritual foes consider us an abomination. If peace with the devil is more important to you than victory in the LORD, you will often be defeated and subjected.

b. In Geba: Archaeologists have found this Philistine fortress at Geba (also known as Gibeah). The archaeological evidence shows that it was destroyed but later rebuilt by Saul and became his palace and fortress.

c. All Israel heard it said that Saul had attacked a garrison of the Philistines: Saul plainly took credit for Jonathan’s bold attack on the garrison of the Philistines. This was a bad flaw in the heart and character of Saul. His own sense of insecurity would not allow any of his associates (even his own son) to receive credit. He needed to drink in praise like thirsty men drink water. (Guzik)

“an abomination”

Don’t miss this, “But as soon as we show some boldness and courage against the LORD’s enemies, our spiritual foes consider us an abomination.”

Are you bold for the kingdom of heaven speaking and teaching of Jesus and His free gift of salvation?

“If peace with the devil is more important to you than victory in the LORD, you will often be defeated and subjected.”

In the spiritual realm with our spiritual enemies you are either an abomination or defeated and subjected. 

As for myself, I rather have victory for the Lord! 

What about you?

Blessings