1 Samuel
David Seeks Refuge From Saul in Phillistia
In this chapter, David is compelled to leave his homeland because of the slander of Cush and the betrayal of the people of Ziph. At Engedi there seemed to be a complete and harmonious reconciliation between David and Saul. Yet, in just a brief time, Saul was again hunting David. …
The Call of Samuel
Listening and responding is vital in a relationship with God. As we see from this passage, God is no respecter of age or position when it comes to communication. He can and may work through anyone he chooses. Most of us would have expected God to speak to the older statesman, E …
Goliath’s (and David’s) Challenge to Israel
Sometime later the armies of Israel and the Philistines faced each other across the Valley of Elah (vv. 1-2), a wide valley approximately 15 miles southwest of Jerusalem (v. 3). The two armies decided on a contest of champions to determine victory. The Philistines chose Goliath, a nine-foot …
David and Jonathan’s Covenant
After leaving Ramah, David returned to Jonathan, his closest friend and brother-in-law, for help and advice (vv. 1-4). Knowing of Saul’s hostility toward him, David sought to learn from Jonathan what the real problem was and if there might be a reconciliation. The test would be David’s absence …
David Lies to Ahimelech & Achish
Fearing for his life, David fled to Nob (v.1) which was halfway between Jerusalem and Gibeath. Wondering where to go, he decides to ask Abimelech, the priest, for help. Abimelech was the great-grandson of Eli. When Abimelech heard that David had entered the gates of the city, he came …
David sees a mortal man defying God
Three of David’s brothers have gone off to fight in Saul’s army against the Philistines (v. 13). David is introduced once more as the youngest son of Jesse, who has eight boys (v. 14). David had been playing his harp for Saul but had gone home to Bethlehem to take care of his fat …
David & Abigail
The chapter begins with the death of Samuel, the spiritual leader of Israel for many years. It seems that when David heard the news, he started to feel a bit restless, prompting his move from Engedi, near the Dead Sea, up into Paran, in Judah proper (v. 1). Thus continues the theme established in …
Israel Rejects God And Demands a King
Many People are painfully aware that things would be far better in their lives if they had made wiser decisions. It is especially frustrating to realize what they are going through now is the result of one poor decision in our lives. This is such a time in the life of Israel.When …
Michal helps David escape from Saul
Saul set in motion several steps to kill David (v. 1). First, he asked his servants to kill him. Jonathan went to his father, on David’s behalf, and was able to appease him for a time (vv. 2-7). In fact, Saul made the statement, “As the Lord lives, he shall not be slain” (v.6). Again, David went out to war …
David’s Victory & Rescue vs Saul’s Death & Defeat
David faced an unexpected crisis. When he and his men returned to Ziklag, they found that their families had been taken captive by the ruthless Amalekites. Their homes had been destroyed. The city lay in ruins. This seeming tragedy served to shake them loose from the comforts and …