A life that lost it's focus

"Saul died for his trespass against the Lord [in sparing Amalek], for his unfaithfulness in not keeping God's word, and also for consulting [a medium with] a spirit of the dead to inquire pleadingly of it, And inquired not so of the Lord [in earnest penitence] ..." 1 Chronicles 10:13,14

Saul, the first king of Israel, began his walk very well. It was the ideal start any one could look for - with all the favor from God and Prophet Samuel, being the tallest one among the people, being the first king of Israel. But along the way, he lost the focus and the end was a miserable and sad one. I am sure you will agree with me that it is how you finish, is more important than how you start. It is definitely an advantage to start well, but finishing is more crucial.

The above verse made me think on why Saul's end was a sad one? What are the lessons that I could learn from him?

1. He disobeyed the specific command to destroy the Amalekites
   
2. Not keeping God's word - In general, Saul never took interest to keep God's word. He didn't confirm his life to God's standards. We see that not keeping God's word is counted as unfaithfulness to God.
3. Not inquiring the Lord - When he was in trouble and confusion about the direction he has to follow, he chose to seek the guidance from a medium but not of the Lord. What do you think are the reasons for Saul not inquiring the Lord? Think about it. In various circumstances, Saul's confidence was in the people and his army but not on the living God. How sad it is?
   

Indeed, Saul's life is a reminder for all those, who start very well, but lose the focus along the way. But God being loving and compassionate, I can assure that if we choose to turn to God by being faithful to Him and inquire Him, He will prove himself to be faithful to us.

Questions to Ponder:

1. Where is your confidence when you are faced with confusion and trouble?
2. Do you have the habit of inquiring the Lord? If not, honestly list down the reasons for so.