1 Samuel 28

In 1 Samuel 28, we see the perspective shift back to King Saul for a moment. For David to take the throne, Saul first had to be deposed. This chapter represents the prophecy of his own downfall. Though Saul had once found God’s favor, he turned away from him. As a result, God would, in time, turn things over to David. We see Saul’s own hypocrisy here, as he consults a spiritual medium even though he had already banished them from the land.

16 Samuel said, "Why do you consult me, now that the LORD has turned away from you and become your enemy? 17 The LORD has done what he predicted through me. The LORD has torn the kingdom out of your hands and given it to one of your neighbors—to David. 18 Because you did not obey the LORD or carry out his fierce wrath against the Amalekites, the LORD has done this to you today. 19 The LORD will hand over both Israel and you to the Philistines, and tomorrow you and your sons will be with me. The LORD will also hand over the army of Israel to the Philistines." – 1 Samuel 28:16-19

This speaks to our responsibility to God when we are given much. Nothing in this life comes for free. We are all given gifts, but they are given so God can use said gifts to accomplish the most through us. Each person’s gifts are different as well. In Saul, God gave him gifts of leadership and power, yet Saul did not use them the way God wanted him to use them. As a result, God was going to replace Saul with David because David was a steward of His gifts. We must remember this as we seek to apply the gifts we are given.