READING: 2 Samuel 1-4
“How the mighty have fallen!”
2 Samuel 1:19
How the mighty have fallen!
King Saul and his son Jonathan were dead, both victims in battle. A messenger brought that word to David, and David and his men “mourned, wept, and fasted until the evening for those who died by the sword—for Saul, his son Jonathan, the Lord’s people, and the house of Israel” (2 Sam. 1:12). The combination of the terms, “mourned, wept, and fasted” shows the depth of grief David experienced when he heard this tragic news.
In David’s lament over their deaths, he repeated this refrain three times: “How the mighty have fallen!” (2 Sam. 1:19, 25, 27). The words are in essence an exclamation that attempts to capture the tragedy and the grief, but that cannot adequately describe the situation. The king and his son were dead—and David could only weep over their demise. He especially mourned the death of Jonathan, of whom he said, “I grieve for you, Jonathan, my brother.You were such a friend to me” (2 Sam. 1:26).
How the mighty have fallen!
The scenarios are different and the comparisons are not exact, but the tragedy of Saul’s fall reminds me of so many other Christian leaders who have fallen. Many had power, prestige, and popularity—but ego and sin got the best of them. Their positions in churches and denominations were such that their fall was far; moreover, it was evident to the Christian and non-Christian world alike. Whatever they had gained on their way up the ladder, they lost quickly when they made choices opposed to God’s plan. How the mighty have fallen!
And how possible it is for all of us to fall. . . .
ACTION STEPS:
- Thank the Lord for every day of victory He grants you, beginning today.
- Be honest about any pride issues you may face. Ask God to humble you, lest you fall.
PRAYER: “God, I want to walk faithfully with You all the way to death. Help me.”
TOMORROW’S READING: Psalms 6, 9, 10, 14, 16, 21
