1 & 2 Samuel – Page 13

1 Samuel 29:1-11 – Not This Time

baseball player sitting on the bench behind the fence, batting gloved hands crossed on knees

David was sidelined. That was a rare occasion to be sure, and David had to be a bit distressed by it. But after seeing a slight tantrum, we see an obedient David doing what the king asked. By tantrum, I’m sure it wasn’t like an out-of-control toddler, but rather a more defiant teenager, wondering why there is a curfew!

There is likely another path that God wants to David to take, and this time it doesn’t involve his military prowess. After all, he would be attacking his own people. The Philistine leaders were probably right in making that recommendation to the king. A very strong recommendation, almost a condemnation if he did let David stay and fight.

1 Samuel 28:1-25 – When Desperation Sets In

Read 1 Samuel 28:1-25

A mug with phrase on it: worry less, live more

Saul must have still be hopeful that God would change his mind and help him. Saul had relied on God’s direction for a long time before he made his costly blunder. He was hoping for a forgiving God. God is forgiving, that is not the problem. God is true to his word, and he told Saul what would happen if, and Saul didn’t believe it then either.

We hear that Saul had banned mediums from the land, yet he was able to find one. She was at least trying to abide by the law, but Saul was desperate. He needed an answer. The battle was looming and he needed a word from God.

1 Samuel 27:1-12 – An Interesting Strategy

Read 1 Samuel 27:1-12

the word ENEMY formed by lots of smaller letters forming word FEAR

Would you have thought to hide amidst the enemy? I don’t think I would have. But it’s an interesting strategy to be sure. For all the time he lived in Gath with the Philistines, Saul left him alone. The strategy worked. But, David took quite a gamble with his own reputation and future of being King of Israel.

Was the memory of his anointing fading or did David think of it regularly? I try to put myself in David’s place. I’m afraid I would be more impatient than he seems to be. God will move in God’s time. That’s a good reminder for us, too.

1 Samuel 26:1-25 – Again?

Read 1 Samuel 26:1-25

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’s 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.