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WHAT IS TRUE SUCCESS? (12 OF 27)

by Keith Krell

Scripture: 1 Samuel 13:23, 1 Samuel 14:52
This content is part of a series.


What is True Success? (12 of 27)
Series: Calling All Leaders
Keith Krell
1 Samuel 13:23-14:52


How do you define success? Do you immediately think of power, position, popularity, or possessions? What makes someone truly successful? Is it going to the best university, getting the best job upon graduation, marrying the right spouse, having 2.5 kids, earning the most money, climbing the occupational ladder, and retiring early? Is this true success? What is true success? In 1 Sam 14 our author reveals true success, or lack thereof, by contrasting the lives of a father and son. By observing Saul and Jonathan we'll see how the Bible defines true success.

1. Jonathan attacks the Philistine garrison (13:23-14:15). Our first scene is a riveting account that should be rated R for suspense and violence. The story begins with these words: ''And the garrison of the Philistines went out to the pass of Michmash. Now the day came that Jonathan, the son of Saul, said to the young man who was carrying his armor, 'Come and let us cross over to the Philistines' garrison that is on the other side.' But he did not tell his father'' (13:23-14:1). Whoever remained from the Philistines' garrison from Jonathan's initial attack (cf. 13:3) licked their wounds and moved to Michmash. However, it appears that Jonathan isn't through with them just yet. He and his armor bearer decide to go on a secret mission without telling Saul. As you know, whenever a teenager does something without telling his father, it's usually because he doesn't want his request to be declined. Such is certainly the case here. From the very beginning there is an insinuation that things aren't quite right between Jonathan and Saul-a theme that will be apparent throughout the narrative.

The author quickly shifts scenes in 14:2-3 to inform us that: ''Saul was staying [''sitting''] in the outskirts of Gibeah under the pomegranate tree which is in Migron [''fear'']. And the people who were with him were about s ...

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