The witch of Endor

Dabbling with the occult occurred in Bible times, just as today. Israel’s law prohibited such activity, and 1 Samuel 28:3 relates that Saul, Israel’s first king, had expelled the mediums and occultists from the land.

Ironically, before a fateful battle with the Philistines, Saul consulted a medium (called “witch” in older translations) in the village of Endor.

Saul assured her she would not be punished, and at his request she called up the spirit of his dead mentor, Samuel. His spirit, not pleased, asked Saul, “Why have you disturbed me by bringing me up?”

Poor Saul explained that he wanted Samuel’s advice, since God appeared to have abandoned him.

Samuel stated that Saul’s kingdom would be handed over to David, and “tomorrow you and your sons will be with me”—that is, dead. As Samuel predicted, Saul and his sons died the following day.

Did anyone ever wonder where a “witchy” TV character got her name of “Endora”?

DAILY DEVOTIONAL

Calm And Quiet

David Jeremiah

According to medical researchers at Duke University, there is a “vicious cycle” involving insomnia, anxiety, and depression. It’s sort of a “which came first: the chicken or the egg?” scenario.

DAILY DEVOTIONAL

The Rope of Prayer

David Jeremiah

Daniel was a man who communicated with heaven. He prayed fervently, consistently, and for the will of God. He knew nothing of praying only before meals, at bedtime, and when he really needed God’s help.

DAILY DEVOTIONAL

The Initiative Against Depression

Oswald Chambers

A human being is capable of depression, otherwise there would be no capacity for exaltation. There are things that are calculated to depress, things that are of the nature of death; and in taking an estimate of yourself, always take into account the capacity for depression.

DAILY DEVOTIONAL

The Inspiration of Spiritual Initiative

Oswald Chambers

When the inspiration of God does come, it comes with such miraculous power that we are able to arise from the dead and do the impossible thing. God does not give us overcoming life; He gives us life as we overcome.

DAILY DEVOTIONAL

The Determination To Serve

Oswald Chambers

The mainspring of Paul 's service is not love for men, but love for Jesus Christ. Paul's realization of how Jesus Christ had dealt with him is the secret of his determination to serve others.