When Saul saw the camp of the Philistines, he was absolutely terrified.
Terrifying sounds fill his ears; in a time of peace marauders attack him.
Terrors frighten him on all sides and dog his every step.
How desolate they become in a mere moment! Terrifying judgments make their demise complete!
What the wicked fears will come on him; what the righteous desire will be granted.
It was reported to the family of David, “Syria has allied with Ephraim.” They and their people were emotionally shaken, just as the trees of the forest shake before the wind.
Then all the color drained from the king’s face and he became alarmed. The joints of his hips gave way, and his knees began knocking together.
The Philistines assembled; they came and camped at Shunem. Saul mustered all Israel and camped at Gilboa.
So Saul inquired of the Lord, but the Lord did not answer him – not by dreams nor by Urim nor by the prophets.