I Samuel 14:26
“When the people entered the forest, behold, there was a flow of honey; but no man put his hand to his mouth, for the people feared the oath.”
As I read this passage, what comes to mind is the importance of religion to society. If one fears God, they are better citizens. They understand that the Lord sees all. Thus these are more compliant with the laws of the land.
One who isn’t religious can theoretically obey laws only when seen by others. If there aren’t any witnesses, then one’s own morality restrains them. If one is bitter towards the state, then cheating it at any opportunity might be a moral.
This type of practice could apply to any law. Thus, the rise of crime and a burdened judicial system. The charity that we have towards our fellow citizens is also challenged. Grievances would abound as well as the need for more lawyers.
However, the person of faith knows God sees all. Alexis de Tocqueville was a french author who visited the US in the 1800’s. He was impressed with our country and wrote much about it. He said, “Religion not only establishes the positive conditions required for modern democracy to emerge, but also acts as a necessary corrective to some of democracy’s most dangerous inclinations.”
Before the great flood, God was grieved by the state of the heart of the people. Genesis 6:5 says, “Then the LORD saw that the wickedness of man was great on the earth, and that every intent of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually.” I point this out to show the negative potential of people who don’t fear God, not to say that humanity is at the same place.
This is not to say the religious people are better. It’s just they know God sees. Thus they know the Lord is watching and will hold them to account. Just like the soldiers in today’s passage. They didn’t eat anything, because they didn’t want to fall under the curse. They knew they could be found out. So they complied with the kings words, even though most knew it was foolish.
Lord, be with our world. Even though atheism and agnosticism is out there, open there eyes to You. Help us to fear You and to be good citizens.