Please God, not people.
When faced with tough choices, we can be easily swayed by people’s opinions. When Saul entered the cave where David was hiding, it was the perfect opportunity for David to kill Saul. v4 David’s men encouraged him to take advantage of Saul’s vulnerability. They persuaded David that God had orchestrated this opportunity for him to kill Saul. God was testing David’s heart. God was waiting to see if David would do what pleased Him, or listen to his men’s advice. God was watching to see how David would treat his greatest enemy. God wanted to know if David would seize the throne by killing Saul or choose righteousness instead.
David probably considered how much easier his life would be if he got rid of Saul. v5 But David’s conscience was sensitive to God’s leading. David felt so guilty for harming Saul’s outer garment. In contrast to Saul, David walked in the fear of the Lord and not in the fear of men. David chose to obey God rather than the advice of those around him.
Read 1 Samuel 24:1-7
Why did God send Saul into the same cave as David?
What can you learn from David’s response to his men in verse 7?
Do not take matters into your own hands.
We often struggle to honor people we do not respect. But in spite of everything Saul did, David continued to honor him. David may not have respected Saul’s behaviour, but he respected God’s calling over Saul’s life. Despite how David felt, he never took justice into his own hands. David trusted in God instead.
The Bible cautions us not to allow our emotions to cause us to sin (Ephesians 4:26). Sometimes when we are hurt by others, we may be tempted to take matters into our own hands. But if we harm others, God will judge us too. The best thing to do is to leave judgment to God. God will judge righteously and justly.
Read 1 Samuel 24:8-15
What can you learn from David’s attitude towards Saul?
How can you apply verse 12 in your life?
Repay evil with good.
David shows us how a Godly king should behave. David did not repay evil with evil but repaid evil with good. Because of David’s kindness, Saul repented. Saul’s unexpected reaction gives us hope that restoration is possible when we extend kindness. Romans 2:4 teaches us that the kindness of God leads people to repentance. When you find it difficult to love those who have hurt you, look to the kindness of God. Jesus cried out to God for mercy for the people who crucified Him. In Matthew 5:43-48, Jesus teaches us that true love is displayed when we love our enemies. If there are people you struggle to love, you can take the first step by praying for them. This is a small step, but it opens the door in your heart to repay evil with kindness.
Read 1 Samuel 24:16-22
Why did Saul’s attitude towards David change?
Read Matthew 5:43-48. How does Jesus teach us to treat our enemies?
Can you think of one example where you can apply these verses in your life?
Anesti Ministries 