In this week’s episode of 1 Samuel, King Saul is in a terrible predicament. The Philistines are gearing up for war against him–David is with them–and God is not answering.

Last week we looked at David’s response to pressure, and this Sunday we see how Saul reacts to a crisis of his own.

At first, Saul seeks God’s guidance. But when God is silent, Saul comes up with a shocking plan:

Saul disguises himself and goes undercover to a witch for help.

In this strange passage of Scripture, Saul shows his total disregard for God and completely shatters his reign as king.

As Saul spirals, we see how God rescues David from fighting for the Philistines and prepares him to return, as God continues to work in and through his flawed people.