And Nahash the Ammonite answered them, “On this condition I will make a covenant with you, that I may put out all your right eyes, and bring reproach on all Israel.” vv.1-2
Read chapter 11
How quickly after Saul is said to be king that threat is made against Israel. Other nations saw a newbie as an easy target and even their own nation of Israel had men that doubted Saul as king over them (v.12). So their quick response (the Israelites of Jabesh Gilead) is that they make a covenant with another nation so that they don't get killed. It seems like a weird covenant to put out the right eyes off all of them to bring reproach on Israel, but in battle the shield covered the left eye so the right eye was needed for seeing, without the right eye they wouldn't be able to prevail in battle. Interestingly enough the men of Jabesh Gilead debate this for a week; what's their to debate about as I'd think that's an obvious "No way." Praise the Lord that Saul's response through the Holy Spirit of righteous anger and command of the other Israelites go to battle against Nahash and save their brethren in Jabesh Gilead. When have you felt threatened by others and willing to give in to bondage or give up a part of who you are to not be in battle or "picked on"? How have you seen your friends, family, brothers and sisters in the faith fight for you in these moments?
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