There is a solemn lesson for us all here. It is possible for us to do well in some particulars and fail deeply in others. There is something that will test every reader of these pages more than anything else. Each one knows in the privacy of his own soul where the weak point lies. Let us profit by Saul's utter collapse, and set a watch against every aperture by means of which the adversary may get at us and overcome us.
The Philistines were more dangerous enemies than the Ammonites or any others, being established on the west side of Jordan in the Lord's land, holding the sea-coast. Their name remains stamped upon the country to this day. “Palestine” is a more familiar name to the world than “Canaan.” It was in vain for Saul to be victorious over more distant foes while helpless against the Philistines. In like manner, there is little value in our victories over some evils, while we permit others more grave in character (if we could only see it) to lead us captive at their will.