2 Samuel 14

Now all the people of the land came to a forest; and there was honey on the ground... Then one of the people said, “Your father strictly charged the people with an oath, saying, ‘Cursed is the man who eats food this day.’” And the people were faint. But Jonathan said, “My father has troubled the land. Look now, how my countenance has brightened because I tasted a little of this honey...And Saul said, “Cast lots between my son Jonathan and me.” So Jonathan was taken. Then Saul said to Jonathan, “Tell me what you have done.” And Jonathan told him, and said, “I only tasted a little honey with the end of the rod that was in my hand. So now I must die!” Saul answered, “God do so and more also; for you shall surely die, Jonathan.” vv.25,29,42-44






Read chapter 14


What was wrong with Jonathan eating the honey? He ate the honey out of ignorance, not knowing his father's command. When he did hear of it he told the men it would've been better to have the energy it provided. They could've killed even more Philistines. Yet later when lots are cast to find out why God didn't answer Saul it showed Jonathan at fault. I thought Saul would've been the one at fault for building an altar (v.35) and making a religion of fasting of his men and therefore causing them to eat meat with blood, which was a sin. Yet the Lord spoke/answered thru the Urim and Thummim and showed Jonathan at fault. Although eating honey seems like a small harmless sin to us, it was still disobedience and missing the mark- worthy of death. Yet the men of Israel argued with Saul not to kill Jonathan since the Philistines were delivered into his hand that day and saved Israel. So Saul didn't put him to death. Confusing a bit God's will in all this. Does He change His mind? Does Saul even ask the Lord or just make his vows reasoning judgment? Verse 37 says God didn't answer Saul "that day" so was all this the same day?


How have you broken a rule that seemed innocent, not doing anything to harm anyone, yet was still breaking a rule? Do you justify this or felt guilty?