David Anointed The New King
January 24, 2022
Commentary
When you are depressed how do you spell RELIEF? It seems that the Holy Spirit had left Saul and God allowed an evil spirit to enter him and torment him (vv. 14-15). Since he could not function in this deep depression, he asked that a musician be brought to minister to his troubled soul (v. 16). It seems that Saul was completely taken over by Satan.
One of Saul’s servants suggested David, who was an accomplished harpist and musician (vv. 17-18). As David came to play for him, Saul had no idea that David had secretly been anointed his replacement as king. However, in the providence of God, Saul’s invitation gave David an excellent opportunity to gain first hand information about leading a nation (vv.19-22).
The Holy Spirit empowered David to drive away the evil spirit that overwhelmed Saul (v.23). The harp that he used was a popular instrument in that day and the music it makes is still known for its soothing qualities. It played a very important part in temple worship. A few years ago, while my wife and I were in Israel, we were taken by our guide to a place where they are once again making many harps that they say will be used in future temple worship. David was an unusual person in many ways. David is brought into the palace. God looks at the inner man when He chooses someone for a particular office or task. Saul is now forsaken of God, and David is brought into court to play his harp. Although it is not yet known, Israel has a new king.
Application
Just as David’s plans had to be put on hold while he played the harp for Saul, some times my plans have to be put on hold. Like David, I need to learn and grow during these circumstances, no matter what they may be.
1 Samuel 16:14– 23 (NET)
14 Now the Spirit of the Lord had turned away from Saul, and an evil spirit from the Lord tormented him. 15 Then Saul’s servants said to him, “Look, an evil spirit from God is tormenting you. 16 Let our lord instruct his servants who are here before you to look for a man who knows how to play the lyre. Then whenever the evil spirit from God comes upon you, he can play the lyre and you will feel better.” 17 So Saul said to his servants, “Find me a man who plays well and bring him to me.” 18 One of his attendants replied, “I have seen a son of Jesse in Bethlehem who knows how to play the lyre. He is a brave warrior and is articulate and handsome, for the Lord is with him.”
19 So Saul sent messengers to Jesse and said, “Send me your son David, who is out with the sheep.” 20 So Jesse took a donkey loaded with bread, a container of wine, and a young goat and sent them to Saul with his son David. 21 David came to Saul and stood before him. Saul liked him a great deal, and he became his armor-bearer. 22 Then Saul sent word to Jesse saying, “Let David be my servant, for I am very pleased with him.”
23 So whenever the spirit from God would come upon Saul, David would take his lyre and play it. This would bring relief to Saul and make him feel better. Then the evil spirit would leave him alone.