Jonathan Won the Battle
Jonathan, Saul’s son, attacks a Philistine detachment, killing 20 of them. The surprise, and an earthquake sent by God, terrifies the Philistines. Saul notices the Philistines army is fleeing, and hurries to attack them.
6 And Jonathan said to the young man that bare his armour, Come, and let us go over unto the garrison of these uncircumcised: it may be that the Lord will work for us: for there is no restraint to the Lord to save by many or by few. 7 And his armourbearer said unto him, Do all that is in thine heart: turn thee; behold, I am with thee according to thy heart. 8 Then said Jonathan, Behold, we will pass over unto these men, and we will discover ourselves unto them. 9 If they say thus unto us, Tarry [3] until we come to you; then we will stand still in our place, and will not go up unto them.
15 And there was trembling in the host, in the field, and among all the people: the garrison, and the spoilers, they also trembled, and the earth quaked: so it was a very great trembling.
23 So the Lord saved Israel that day: and the battle passed over unto Bethaven.
Saul’s Rash Oath
Now Saul foolishly commands his army not to stop fighting to eat. Jonathan, who has not heard the order, takes a little honey from a tree. Only the insistence of his men keeps Saul from putting his son to death for this violation. Saul, who knowingly violated God’s command, was willing to execute his own son for unknowing disobedience! No wonder this man of flawed character was rejected by God.
24 And the men of Israel were distressed that day: for Saul had placed the people under oath, saying, Cursed be the man that eateth any food until evening, that I may be avenged on mine enemies. So none of the people tasted any food.
52 And there was fierce war against the Philistines all the days of Saul: and when Saul saw any strong man, or any valiant man, he took him unto him.