As we open up Samuel’s second book, we are now entering the time after Saul. Saul’s death was a turning point in God’s story. It is the time we have been waiting for. God has already anointed David to be the next king, now it’s time for the transition to begin.
It was interesting that the messenger who found David was an Amalekite. David and his men had just decimated the Amalekites to retrieve their wives, families, and possessions. This messenger was also claiming to be Saul’s killer. Did he have no decency?
David had no reason to question the details given. Yet, we know there are discrepancies in the story from how the final chapter in 1 Samuel plays out and relays the events. How was David going to respond? I’m sure all eyes were on him!
Saul is dead. David can’t be all that surprised. He doesn’t celebrate. He grieves. But I think he is grieving more for having lost his friend, Jonathan. He had a special bond with him, and to not have the opportunity to have Jonathan by his side during battle was probably another huge loss for David to accept.
What did the messenger expect? Perhaps he would receive a generous reward for bringing the crown to David. Surely he didn’t anticipate that David to execute him. Turning over the kingship was not his responsibility or duty. A mere Amalekite! God is the only one who can make that assignment.
David’s actions were swift. He knew he had to honor the office of king. God’s anointed one should not have been killed. The man taking credit for this, whether true or fabricated for effect, will die to preserve Saul’s reputation and God’s sovereignty.
David kept himself “clean” of the blame for this bloodshed. He said to the messenger, “You have condemned yourself, for you yourself confessed that you killed the Lord’s anointed one.” David treated this news with authority and with respect. He assumed the man’s story was true. We know there was another “version.” We’ll not split hairs to worry about which account we should rely on. The outcome is the same.
What emotions do you think David was feeling having received this news?
Think of a time when you were waiting for something and then the time finally arrived. All the strategizing, planning, and rehearsing culminates into something beautiful. One memory that comes to mind for me is getting ready for Vacation Bible School each summer. Great memories!
Let’s pray …
Lord, I thank you for the times in my life when I have seen you at work bringing all of the details together perfectly for a project I was working on. In those times, I know there is no way I could have done it all by myself without your help. Help me be a wise leader helping others in need. May I follow you all of my days. I love you, Lord. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
