David also said, "As the Lord lives, surely the Lord will strike him, or this day will that he dies, or he will go down into battle and perish. The Lord forbid that I should stretch out my hand against the Lord's anointed; but now please take the spear that is at his head and the jug of water, and let us go." (Verse 10-11)
Message: David Spares Saul Again
Time: This book is a biography of Samuel's life and career up to his death. It took place over a period of about 110 years, stretching from the closing days of the judges, when Samuel was born (ca. 1120 BC) through the death of Saul (1011 BC).
What the Lord is Saying: Times have changed. Instead of David being the fugitive, now it feels like it has shifted over to Saul. And yet, as it looked like David had been reprieved of Saul attacking him, once again, here, at the beginning of this chapter Saul seems to be pursuing David again.
Saul learns that David is in the wilderness of Ziph. "David sent out spies, and he knew that Saul was definitely coming" (verse 4). David approaches the place where Saul has camped. Abishai goes down with David to the camp. Abishai lets David know that David the Lord (maybe) has delivered Saul into his hand and Abishai is ready to strike, just say the word. But David once again says he is not to "stretch out his hand against the Lord's anointed." If he does, "surely the Lord wills strike him" that does that.
Once again, God provides. His sovereign hand is at work here, as it has been. So many times did David escape Saul's wrath and yet now at this moment, David listens to God and Saul is spared. David knows better. He knows that in due time Saul will die but David is not going to be the one to force this. There is a lesson here to learn. I need to wait on God and he will carry out the outcome on people's lives. No matter how I might believe that person is worthy of death, we are to wait on Him. This life is really short in comparison to eternity.
David then confronts Abner, Saul's commander leader letting him now that Saul was left unguarded and if not him, someone else could have taken Saul. David not only spares Saul but ensures that he is protected.
Saul recognizes David's voice. Saul is concerned that David is coming against him. Saul says, "I have sinned. Return, my son David for I will not harm you again because my life was precious in your sight this day." (v. 21). David went on his way and Saul remained at his place.
Summary: Saul begins to pursued David again, but God allows David to come upon Saul sleeping and David spares Saul's life, trusting instead in God to take care of Saul in his time. Saul and David part ways.
Promise: God is always working for our good.
Prayer: Lord God, you are sovereign over all in this world and my world. You make things to work out for your glory. You weave this world in the palm of your hand and I can trust in You. I will trust You. I will surrender to You and trust You continually. I will wait and pray and ask You to have mercy on people's live and lean further on You throughout my days here on this earth. My hope is in you and I thank you for rooting that hope in me. Lord, at times, I know I can get swayed by other people and their thoughts, even as I converse with folks online about different beliefs. I am now challenged at times. I pray for strength, for Your strength to be rooted in me always.
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