Walking in the Light – Lessons from 1 Samuel 28:3-25
Big Idea:
Small compromises can lead to ruin, but God’s path of righteousness offers a growing, shining light.
In 1 Samuel 28, we encounter one of the most sobering moments in the life of King Saul. He was a man who began his reign as God’s anointed, yet here, at the end of his journey, he is desperate, fearful, and spiritually darkened. The narrative reveals Saul’s tragic descent into disobedience and despair, culminating in his seeking guidance from a medium—an act that would bring his downfall closer.
This passage challenges us to reflect on two divergent spiritual paths — one of righteousness and one of wickedness — and how our choices shape our lives and destinies. The contrast between light and darkness here is striking and profoundly instructive.
Saul’s Path: A Journey into Darkness
Saul’s Fear
As the Philistines prepare for battle, Saul finds himself paralyzed by fear. His usual means of receiving God’s direction — through prophets, dreams, or the Urim and Thummim — are no longer available to him. Samuel, his spiritual guide and prophet, has died, and the line of priests that could have helped him has been disrupted because of Saul’s earlier disobedience.
The pressure of the coming battle and the absence of divine guidance leads Saul to desperation.
Saul’s Deceit
In an attempt to hide his disobedience, Saul disguises himself when he visits the woman at En Dor, a medium, in direct violation of God's commandments. This deceitful act demonstrates how far Saul has fallen from trusting God to resorting to forbidden and desperate measures.
Saul even swears by the LORD to the medium that she will not be harmed for helping him, an ironic and hollow oath given his ongoing disobedience.
Saul’s Disobedience
The encounter with the medium is shocking. The woman perceives Saul’s identity and fears for her life, yet she complies with his request. Miraculously, the spirit of Samuel appears and confronts Saul with the truth.
Samuel reminds Saul of his past failures — his disobedience, his failure to execute God’s judgment on Amalek, and his rejection of the Lord’s commands. Samuel declares that God has rejected Saul as king and that his kingdom will be torn from him and given to David.
This confrontation reveals Saul’s complete spiritual isolation and God’s judgment upon him.
Saul’s Path Confronted
Samuel’s prophetic words leave Saul utterly broken and afraid. He falls to the ground, weakened by the weight of his impending doom, refusing food and losing all strength.
Despite the woman’s hospitality and encouragement, Saul’s heart is heavy with fear and realization. His path of disobedience and rebellion has led him to a dark and lonely end.
The Path of Wickedness: Insights from Proverbs 4:18-19
The story of Saul is a vivid example of what Proverbs 4:18-19 teaches:
"But the path of the righteous is like the light of dawn,
which shines brighter and brighter until full day.
The way of the wicked is like deep darkness;
they do not know over what they stumble."
It Starts Small
The path to wickedness rarely begins with overt sin or rebellion. Often it starts with small compromises — pride, impatience, or rationalizing disobedience. Saul’s downfall began with his impatience and partial obedience, slowly growing into complete rejection of God’s commands.
There is Blindness
One of the most dangerous aspects of the wicked path is spiritual blindness. Like Saul, those on this path do not always realize the depth of their fall. They stumble blindly, unaware of the consequences or even the direction they are heading.
Stumbling is Inevitable
The path of wickedness leads to destruction and public downfall. For Saul, it meant losing the kingdom, his sons, and ultimately his life. His story warns us that continued disobedience results in stumbling and ruin that cannot be avoided.
The Path of the Righteous: Building Light in Our Lives
The contrast to Saul’s dark path is the path of the righteous, described as “like the light of dawn” that grows brighter over time. This path requires intentional effort and daily commitment.
Willingness to Listen to God
A righteous path starts with an open heart ready to hear God’s voice, whether through Scripture, prayer, counsel, or circumstances. This posture keeps us aligned with God’s will.
Obedience to What is Clear
God’s Word provides clear commands and guidance. Walking in obedience, even when it is difficult or costly, strengthens our spiritual journey and builds character.
Responding to Failures God’s Way
Everyone stumbles at times. What defines us is how we respond — with repentance, confession, taking responsibility, and making real changes rather than excuses or blame.
Community Support
Spiritual growth thrives in community. A church family, mentors, and accountability partners provide encouragement, correction, and help us stay on the path.
Steadfastness in God’s Righteousness
Faithfulness to God’s ways, even in trials, sustains us. Steadfastness ensures our light continues to grow and shine, reflecting Christ to the world.
Practical Lessons from Saul’s Story for Today
Disobedience Has Consequences
Saul’s life is a cautionary tale about the danger of ignoring God’s commands. Partial obedience or rationalizing sin can lead to spiritual darkness and despair.Desperation Leads to Bad Decisions
When we lose sight of God’s guidance, fear and desperation can push us into harmful choices. Seeking God’s help early and consistently prevents this downward spiral.God’s Grace Remains Available
Even in Saul’s darkest moment, God allowed Samuel’s spirit to confront him — a final call to repentance and awareness. God’s patience is evident, but grace does not eliminate consequences.Beware of Spiritual Blindness
Like Saul, we can become blind to the real state of our hearts and lives. Regular self-examination and seeking godly counsel keep us aware and humble.Build Your Life on Righteousness Daily
Faithfulness is not accidental. It requires intentional choices to listen, obey, repent, and rely on community support.
Walking in the Light: The Fruit of a Righteous Path
When we choose to walk the path of righteousness, our lives bear fruit that glorifies God and blesses others. The Apostle Paul summarizes this fruit in Galatians 5:22-25:
"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control."
This fruit grows as we live in the Spirit and walk in His ways. Unlike Saul’s path, this light shines brighter and brighter — transforming us and impacting the world around us.
Conclusion: Which Path Are You On?
Each of us is on a spiritual path — either moving toward Christlikeness or drifting into darkness. Saul’s story reminds us that small compromises can lead to ruin, but God’s path of righteousness offers a growing, shining light.
Ask yourself:
Am I willing to listen to God and obey what I know to be right?
Am I responding to failures with repentance, or excusing my sin?
Do I surround myself with a supportive community that encourages spiritual growth?
Am I steadfast in faithfulness, even when it’s difficult?
The path you choose today will shape your future. Choose the light of dawn — brighter and brighter — and walk in the righteousness of Christ.
Study Questions
What were some key reasons Saul’s relationship with God deteriorated, according to 1 Samuel 28?
How does Saul’s fear influence his decision to seek a medium, and what does this tell us about fear’s power in decision-making?
In what ways did Saul’s actions contradict his position as God’s anointed king?
How does Proverbs 4:18-19 contrast the paths of the righteous and the wicked? What practical lessons can you take from this?
Why is spiritual blindness so dangerous, and how can we guard against it in our own lives?
What does the “path of righteousness” look like in practical daily living?
How can community support and accountability help believers stay on the path of righteousness?
If you want to learn more about walking in a path of righteousness, Shepherd Thoughts exists to help you live out your faith. If you or a friend needs support or resources to love God and love others more, please reach out to us today. We’d love to help.
