1 Samuel 28:22

Now please listen to your servant and let me set a morsel of bread before you so you may eat and have the strength to go on your way."

Study Bible

Now please listen to your servant
This phrase reflects a tone of humility and urgency. The Hebrew word for "listen" is "שָׁמַע" (shama), which implies not just hearing but obeying or heeding. In the context of 1 Samuel 28, the speaker is the medium of Endor, who is addressing King Saul. Her use of "your servant" indicates a position of submission, which is significant given Saul's desperate state. Historically, Saul, once a mighty king, is now reduced to seeking guidance from a medium, which was against God's law (Leviticus 19:31). This phrase underscores the reversal of roles and the humility Saul must accept in his dire situation.

and let me set a morsel of bread before you
The phrase "morsel of bread" in Hebrew is "פַּת־לֶחֶם" (pat-lechem), which signifies a small portion, often used to denote hospitality or sustenance. Bread is a staple in the ancient Near Eastern diet, symbolizing life and sustenance. In this context, the medium offers Saul physical nourishment, which is ironic given his spiritual starvation and disobedience to God. The act of setting bread before someone is a gesture of care and provision, highlighting the medium's role in providing for Saul when he is at his weakest.

so you may eat and have the strength
The Hebrew word for "strength" is "כֹּחַ" (koach), which denotes physical power or vigor. Saul's need for strength is both literal and metaphorical. Physically, he is weak from fasting and fear; spiritually, he is weakened by his separation from God. This phrase emphasizes the necessity of physical sustenance to continue one's journey, but it also subtly points to the deeper need for spiritual strength that Saul lacks due to his disobedience and estrangement from God.

to go on your way
The phrase "to go on your way" in Hebrew is "לָלֶכֶת בַּדֶּרֶךְ" (lalekhet baderekh), which means to continue one's journey or path. In the biblical narrative, a "way" or "path" often symbolizes one's life journey or spiritual direction. Saul's path has led him to a place of desperation and disobedience, seeking guidance from a source forbidden by God. This phrase serves as a poignant reminder of the consequences of straying from God's path and the importance of aligning one's journey with divine will.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Saul
The first king of Israel, who is in a state of desperation and fear as he faces the Philistine army. His disobedience to God has led him to seek guidance from a medium, which is against God's commands.

2. The Medium of Endor
A woman who practices necromancy, whom Saul consults in his desperation. She is initially fearful of Saul's request due to his previous ban on such practices.

3. Samuel
The prophet who had died prior to this event. Saul seeks to communicate with him through the medium, hoping for guidance.

4. Endor
A town in ancient Israel where the medium resides. Saul travels here in disguise to seek her services.

5. Philistines
The enemy army that Saul is preparing to face, causing him great fear and anxiety.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Disobedience
Saul's actions demonstrate the dangers of straying from God's commands. Disobedience leads to desperation and poor decisions.

Seeking Godly Counsel
Instead of turning to forbidden practices, believers should seek guidance through prayer, Scripture, and godly counsel.

The Importance of Spiritual Strength
Just as physical nourishment is necessary for strength, spiritual nourishment through God's Word is essential for facing life's challenges.

The Role of Fear in Decision-Making
Fear can drive us to make unwise choices. Trusting in God can help us overcome fear and make decisions aligned with His will.

God's Sovereignty and Mercy
Despite Saul's failures, God's plan continues. This reminds us of God's sovereignty and the opportunity for repentance and redemption.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Saul's decision to consult the medium reflect his spiritual state, and what can we learn from this about the importance of obedience to God?

2. In what ways can we ensure that we are seeking guidance from God rather than turning to ungodly sources in times of desperation?

3. How does the fear Saul experiences compare to the peace described in Psalm 23, and how can we apply this contrast to our own lives?

4. What are some practical steps we can take to strengthen our spiritual lives and ensure we are nourished by God's Word?

5. How does understanding God's sovereignty and mercy encourage us to repent and seek His guidance, even when we have strayed from His path?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 18:10-12
This passage condemns practices like necromancy, which Saul engages in by consulting the medium. It highlights Saul's disobedience to God's law.

1 Samuel 15:22-23
Samuel's earlier rebuke of Saul for his disobedience, emphasizing that obedience is better than sacrifice. This sets the stage for Saul's continued downfall.

Psalm 23:1-4
Contrasts Saul's fear and lack of guidance with the peace and direction provided by the Lord as a shepherd to those who trust in Him.