In our passage today we see two men, two battles, and two outcomes.  Observe:

• Sin and judgment – When God wouldn’t answer him, Saul again took matters into his own hands and sinned by going to a medium. The medium calls up Samuel who delivers the pronouncement of God’s judgment – Saul and his sons will die in the coming battle.  When God doesn’t respond as you want, do you take matters into your hands?
• Obedience and blessing – David finds that an enemy has taken away his wives. He first turns to God and finds strength in the Lord (30:6).  He then seeks God’s direction and follows it – and rescues his wives.  Where do you turn first in calamity?  Are you following God’s direction?