1 & 2 Samuel | Be Still...

1 Samuel 26:1-25 – Again?

Think of the restraint! David has opportunity again to take Saul out of the picture once and for all. And again, David lets Saul, God’s anointed king, live. This is a beautiful picture of trusting God, wouldn’t you agree?

David even had to control his man, Abishai, from taking this golden opportunity. It was a teachable moment to show Abishai the importance and respect that God’ anointed one should receive. Despite Saul’s evil intention to kill David, David gives mercy once more. David affirmed his trust in God, “Surely the LORD will strike Saul down someday, or he will die of old age or in battle.”

1 Samuel 25:39-44 – David’s Women

Read 1 Samuel 25:39-44

a man and woman in light embrace, facing each other, with a sunset behind them

You may have heard the saying, “behind every great man is a great woman.” I’m not sure where that comes from exactly, but we have seen examples of that down through the ages. If you are a woman reading this, your man is great because of you! And, if you’re a man, then cherish that bride of yours who is making you great!

David seems to have several women in his life. We can’t forget how Saul’s daughter Michal helped David escape several chapters ago. Apparently, in their culture a father can give his daughter away if he chooses. That’s what Saul did in David’s absence following his escape.

1 Samuel 25:23-38 – It Worked!

Read 1 Samuel 25:23-38

We can see God’s fingerprints all over Abigail’s boldness in our last reading. God was certainly playing the lead role in protecting David from doing something unfitting for a future king. I like the rawness of this story. I can totally imagine it happening as if I was there watching. I love it when the Bible comes alive like that.

David probably underestimated the woman he sees interrupting their journey to vengeance. He was likely very impressed by her boldness and how she effectively offered herself for her husband and community. David, of course, totally rejected the idea of harming this beautiful woman.

1 Samuel 25:1-22 -Wise Choice

Read 1 Samuel 25:1-22

Conquer Fear Everyday - white and red lettering on gray background

Farewell to Samuel. I just have to say I was surprised of the brevity of the tribute to Samuel upon his death. He was such a pivotal player for God in this transition in God’s story, our story.

The passage moves on quickly to Abigail doing “what you have to do” to save someone you love, even when they aren’t very lovable in the first place. Her husband, Maon was a rich man, and he was described by one of his servants as, “so ill-tempered that no one can even talk to him!”

1 Samuel 24:16-22 – Saul’s Turn

Read 1 Samuel 24:16-22

It got real when Saul looked down and saw a chunk missing from his robe—the same chunk he sees in David’s grasp. David’s words must have cut through him, despite the fact he has been overtaken by an evil spirit.

Saul was on the spot. He needed to speak with authority and not lose credibility. Yet he had heard everything David had said. David opened with “my father” in verse 11 and called him “king” twice more. Emotion overcame Saul in this moment. Saul now begins with a clear-headed, heartfelt response.