1 Samuel 31

The Explanation

The sun was hot over Mount Gilboa. Soldiers ran, and shouted, and fought. Israel's men, against Philistine men. It was loud. Swords clanged. Feet pounded the dusty ground.

King Saul was there. His sons too. Jonathan, Abinadab, Malchishua. Strong men, brave men.

But the fighting went hard for Israel. Very hard for Saul. Arrows flew close. Too close, again and again.

Saul was hurt, and afraid. Very afraid. He did not want the enemies to catch him. So Saul took his own sword. And he died there, on the mountain.

His armor bearer saw it. His heart was pounding. He was scared too. He died there also.

That day was heavy with sadness. Saul died. His three sons died. All his men died too. One sad, sad day on the mountain.

What Does This Mean?

Far away, other soldiers heard the news. Saul is dead. Jonathan is dead. Fear spread like cold water. They left their homes, running.

The next day, the Philistines walked across the mountain. They found Saul, lying still. They took his armor. They carried his body to a city called Beth Shan. They were not kind to him. Not kind at all.

Then they told everyone, far and wide. Saul the king is dead.

The Common Thread

But listen closely. In a town called Jabesh Gilead, some brave men heard what happened. They did not stay home, safe and warm. They walked all night long, under a black sky full of stars, to get Saul.

Gently, they carried him home. And his sons too. They buried them under a big tamarisk tree. Then they sat down, and were sad, for seven whole days.

Even on the saddest day, someone came with love. That is what God's people do, even when it hurts.

And one day, far after this sad day, God sent another King. A King who would not stay dead. His name is Jesus.

For You

When you feel sad, you can whisper it to God. Even at night. Even when it is dark, He hears you.

Do you know someone who feels sad today? You could sit close to them. You could hold their hand. Just like the men from Jabesh Gilead did for Saul.

Talk About It

Why do you think the men walked all night just to get Saul?

What could you do for someone who feels sad, like they did?

Praying Together

Dear God. Thank You that You see me, even on sad days. Thank You for people who care for me. Thank You for Jesus, who is always alive. Amen.