“The P’lishtim assembled; then they went and pitched camp at Shunem; while Sha’ul gathered all Isra’el together and pitched camp at Gilboa.”-1 Samuel 28:4
Verse 4 sets the stage for the battle about to begin.
The Philistines had set up their camp at Shunem on the mountainside opposite of Gilboa where Saul set up his camp.
Both armies could see each other.
The distance was about a two-hour walk between each side.
Now here’s the thing.
Gilboa, where Saul had set up his camp, was located on the northeastern edge of the Jezreel Valley.
The Jezreel Valley folks!
Does that name ring a bell for you?
It should.
Because the Jezreel Valley is the location where a wee little battle called Armageddon will be fought.
That’s right.
The battle about to take place between Saul and the Philistines would take place where countless battles had been fought for centuries.
And where the battle to end all wars will be fought.
Politically speaking, it makes sense this confrontation would occur here.
Why?
Because this area was far north of Judah and Negev where David was conducting his raids.
In other words, David was currently allied with the Philistines.
So the Philistines wouldn’t wanna encroach on the territory of Judah that David controlled.
So what’s the takeaway?
Simple, we’re reading about a battle from thousands of years ago.
Yet it’s just as relevant to us today.
Why?
Because it sets a pattern for what will happen soon.
Are ya feeling me here homeroos?
Unlike any other piece of ancient literature, the Scriptures are just as relevant today as they were yesterday.
Done.
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