David falls asleep

File No. 60

I SAMUEL 26:1–25

DAVID FINDS SAUL ASLEEP

(SBS Bk 2 Story No. 42)

Story Notes

Ziphites, for a second time, alerted Saul to where David was hiding. Again, Saul hounded David who he regarded as a rival to his throne and learned again that the Lord was with David. David pleaded his case once more, but now with more depth. Were these attempts on his life from God or man? Did Saul have the warrant to drive him from his inheritance and did they want him to worship another god? Why was Saul so concerned with a 'flea'? (See Psalm 54 which is attributed to this occasion.) Again, Saul confessed that he was a sinner and a fool. David may have reasoned with Saul, but he entrusted his future to the Lord. So, each man went his way.

In these days, David had dealings with two other men. Abishai shared David's daring and purpose, but had not yet learned to entrust himself to the God who avenged (or justified) his chosen people. Teaching the people of God to trust him was as important for Israel's king as defeating their enemies. The second man, Abner, was Saul's army chief. If David had a future in the country, he would have to deal with this man. David revealed, publicly, that this man had failed his duty and should die. Perhaps it was because Saul was temporarily humbled by David's words that Abner was spared. David was responsible for preserving the life of both Saul and Abner.