Scripture
16-21 When David had finished saying all this, Saul said, “Can this be the voice of my son David?” and he wept in loud sobs. “You’re the one in the right, not me,” he continued. “You’ve heaped good on me; I’ve dumped evil on you. And now you’ve done it again—treated me generously. God put me in your hands and you didn’t kill me. Why? When a man meets his enemy, does he send him down the road with a blessing? May God give you a bonus of blessings for what you’ve done for me today! I know now beyond doubt that you will rule as king. The kingdom of Israel is already in your grasp! Now promise me under God that you will not kill off my family or wipe my name off the books.”
22 David promised Saul. Then Saul went home and David and his men went up to their wilderness refuge.
Reflection
David and Saul have a history together; Saul has known David since he was a young teenager. David gets more than he was asking for when Saul not only acknowledges that David is a “good-doer” but he is also Israel’s next king and that God is with David. It’s like a very rough and awkward succession plan that in the end will work but there are a still a few difficult things to settle before David is settled. In time, David will also yield his throne to one who will come after him and will exceed him in every way. (Ps. Dale).
Thoughts for the day
- What does this passage tell us about God and people?
- What stands out to you in this passage and why?
- How can you apply this passage in your daily life?
- Who can you encourage with this story/message?
Prayer
There are 7.5 billion people and 196 countries in the world. How do we start to pray for them? Start with one nation; one that stirs your heart or catches your attention.
