God gives us community in difficult seasons.
v1-2 At David’s lowest point, God sent people to support him. The people that God sent were not perfect. They were misunderstood, rejected, broken, desperate and miserable. Yet David welcomed them with open arms. David united these people into a formidable army that was able to save Keilah from the Philistines (1 Samuel 23:5). The Christian community may be made up of individuals who are rough around the edges, with different quirks and issues. But Jesus works through each of us, uniting us as one body to support each other through difficult seasons.
God brings together imperfect people to accomplish great things. The 12 apostles were not great men by the world’s standards. But Jesus used them to transform the world. You don’t need to wait for the perfect team. God has put people with many gifts in your church. Don’t overlook people just because they aren’t ready. Godly leaders see the potential in others and bring out the best in them.
v3-4 Godly leaders treat others well even when no one is looking. The way a leader treats their family is a reflection of how they will lead others (1 Timothy 3:4-5). David’s care for his family is contrasted with Saul’s violence towards Jonathan (1 Samuel 20:33). David’s great grandmother Ruth was from Moab (Ruth 4:21-22). Even though Moab was Israel’s ancient enemy, God redeemed David’s heritage to use it for good.
v5 David was safe in the stronghold but God sent a prophet to call him back to Judah. David submitted himself to the Word of the Lord in faith. God calls us to obey Him even when it is dangerous.
Read 1 Samuel 22:1-5
How did God help David at Adullam?
What can you learn from the way David treated others?
Godly leaders don’t use fear to control.
In contrast to David, Saul used fear to maintain control. In ancient times, it was common to hold court under a tree. This was a symbol that justice was transparent and accessible to all. Saul was not seeking justice but vengeance.
Saul abused his power as king to pervert justice. He held the spear to intimidate any who would dare to oppose him (v6). He used financial leverage in an attempt to secure loyalty (v7). He used emotional manipulation to gain sympathy and falsely accused Jonathan of turning David against him (v8).
Saul was so blinded by jealousy that he refused to listen to what others said. Saul accused Ahimelech of treachery without hearing him out (v13). Saul chose to believe Doeg’s testimony because it suited his narrative. Saul was willing to kill unarmed priests who stood in his way. The soldiers lost respect for Saul and refused to follow his order.
v19 Saul’s command to put Nob to the sword reminds us of a similar incident int he past. In 1 Samuel 15:3 Saul failed God’s commanded to devote to destruction the city of Amalek. Yet here he successfully destroyed his kingdom. Saul made himself an enemy of God by killing God’s servants. But David protected God’s servants.
Read 1 Samuel 22:6-23
What can you learn from the way Saul treated others?
What other incident in 1 Samuel does verse 19 remind you of? What does it reveal about Saul’s heart? (1 Samuel 15:3)
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