Day 5

A DIFFICULT QUESTION

"Though he slay me, yet will I trust in him" Job 13:15

Saul's last battle was disastrous for the Israelites. Their army fled before the Philistines and seeing this many of the ordinary people were forced to flee as well. Saul himself was wounded then killed himself.

This story poses another question. Why did Jonathan die that day? Through out he has seen to be a God-fearing prince and a steadfast friend under the most trying of circumstances. Yet he died along with his father.

In spite of much provocation Jonathan remained loyal to his father the king. He chose to go into battle with him and we cannot say whether he knew of Saul's visit to Endor. In practical terms Jonathan's death undoubtedly eased David's succession. In his wisdom God allowed the death of his servant and it is a fact that death comes to all, righteous or unrighteous.

How does God view the death of his servants? (see Ezekiel 18:32; 33:11)

The Bible shows us that death is no problem for the Sovereign of the Universe (1 Cor. 15:51-52) It involves separation and sorrow but this is only temporary (Psalm 13:3; 116:15 Daniel 12:2) and the dead have no consciousness for joy or sorrow (Eccles. 9:5)

Jesus' view of death is quite different from ours John 5:24-29; 1 John 3:14.

God's primary concern is that people be reconciled to him (Eph. 1:9,10) and when our salvation is secure death is defeated (Rev 2:11; 21:4 1 Cor. 15:54,55)