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1 Samuel 28:7 (BSB)
Then Saul said to his servants, “Find me a woman who is a medium, so I can go and consult her.” “There is a medium at Endor,” his servants replied.
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Scripture quotations (main text) are from the Berean Study Bible (BSB), © 2016, 2018 by Bible Hub. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), ©2001 by Crossway, is used for comparison and word study only.
Bible Copyright & Permissions“Then Saul said to his servants, “Find me a woman who is a medium, so I can go and consult her.” “There is a medium at Endor,” his servants replied.” — 1 Samuel 28:7
Picture this: King Saul, feeling desperate and lost, turns to his servants and asks them to find a medium, someone who could communicate with the dead. This moment is charged with emotion—Saul is so desperate for guidance that he’s willing to seek out something that goes against his own beliefs. His servants respond quickly, pointing him to a woman known for her abilities in En-dor. It’s a snapshot of a man at a crossroads, searching for answers in all the wrong places. You can feel the weight of his loneliness and fear, can’t you?
The book of 1 Samuel was written by someone likely close to the events—possibly the prophet Samuel himself or a follower. The writer wanted to document the rise and fall of Saul, showing how a once-promising leader can spiral when he strays from the right path. This detail about seeking a medium highlights Saul’s desperation and the impact of his poor decisions. It’s a warning wrapped in storytelling, illustrating the dangers of ignoring God’s guidance.
At this time in history, Israel was transitioning from a loose collection of tribes to a monarchy. It was a turbulent period filled with conflict, and Saul was the first king. The culture was steeped in superstition and pagan practices, so seeking out a medium wasn’t unheard of, but it was definitely frowned upon for someone in Saul’s position. This context helps us see how far Saul has fallen—he’s not just a king anymore; he’s a man overwhelmed with fear and uncertainty, grasping at anything for help.
This verse hits home because it reveals the lengths we sometimes go to when we feel lost. You might not be seeking a medium, but think about the times you’ve looked for answers in places that don’t really help—whether that’s through unhealthy habits, toxic relationships, or just ignoring what you know is right. Saul’s story serves as a reminder that seeking the right guidance is crucial, especially when life feels overwhelming. It encourages you to pause and reflect on where you’re turning for answers.
Take a moment this week to think about where you seek guidance when you’re unsure. Is it social media? Friends who may not have the best advice? Instead, try reaching out to someone wise in your life—maybe a mentor or a trusted friend—and have a genuine conversation about what you’re facing. Also, consider taking a moment to reflect on what you believe and how that influences your decisions. This is about finding solid ground when everything feels shaky.
This moment is pivotal in the broader story of Saul. Before this, Saul has been struggling with his leadership and the looming threat of the Philistines. He’s also faced rejection from God due to his disobedience. His fear leads him to seek out this medium, which sets the stage for a dramatic encounter that reveals the depth of his despair. This verse is like a turning point—Saul’s choices are leading him deeper into a dark place, and what happens next will have significant consequences for him and his future.
When have you found yourself seeking answers in the wrong places, and what did that teach you about where to turn for guidance?
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