Read 1 Samuel 18:5-9 + 1 Samuel 26:1-12 in your personal Bible or at the link provided.
Review
- What was the relationship between Saul and David like?
- What did Saul try to do to David?
- How did David respond?
Reflect
Saul and David were both chosen by God to be kings of Israel. While Saul was king, David served him by playing the harp and killing Goliath, a champion of an enemy army. Their relationship started off well, but once David’s successes increased, Saul became jealous. Instead of bringing his feelings to God, Saul let his jealousy grow and fester, until it drove him to attempt to kill David.
While relationships can be life-giving, they’ve also been affected by the fall. Bitterness and betrayal are common, and they turn what was supposed to bring us joy into relationships that can cause deep and lasting wounds. When others offend us, we have a choice. Will we stay offended, burying our emotions or letting them grow, or will we turn to God and ask for His help?
Even though Saul chose the former option, David chose to continue seeking God through his betrayal and fear of being killed. David had multiple opportunities to take matters into his own hands and kill Saul, but each time, he submitted himself to God. Through every hurt David experienced, God remained with him, and He remains with you, too.
Respond
What times in your life have you felt similar emotions to both Saul and David? How did you respond to those situations, and what effect did it have on your relationships? What do you hope to do in a future situation? Are there obstacles preventing you from letting go of emotional pain in your relationships? How can you release this burden? Have you caused harm to someone else? What steps can you take to seek reconciliation?