Saul Turns Against David

Saul “loved to hear David play upon his harp, and the evil spirit seemed to be charmed away for the time; but one day when the youth was ministering before him, and bringing sweet music from his instrument, accompanying his voice as he sang the praises of God, Saul suddenly threw his spear at the musician, for the purpose of putting an end to his life. David was preserved by the interposition of God, and without injury fled from the rage of the maddened king.” Such swift mood changes made life at court very difficult.

“Angels of God preserved the life of David. They made him to understand what was the purpose of Saul, and as the instrument was hurled at him, he sprang [to] one side, and received no harm, while the instrument was driven deep in the wall where David had been sitting. . . . “David had obeyed Saul as a servant, and his conduct was humble. His life was irreproachable. His faithfulness in doing the will of God was a constant rebuke to Saul’s extravagant, rebellious course. Saul determined to leave no means untried, that David might be slain. As long as Saul lived, this was the great object of his life, notwithstanding he was compelled to ascribe to the providence of God the escape of David from his hands. Yet his heart was destitute of the love of God, and he was a self-idolater. To his pride and ambition, true honor, justice, and humanity were sacrificed. He hunted David as a wild beast.” This would not be the last time Saul would attempt to take the life of God’s anointed with a lance. He decided to bide his time and watch for another opening to strike. He needed to be cautious, lest this favorite of the people be seen as a martyr, killed because he was perceived to be a threat to the irrationality of a jealous king. It must have taken great courage for David to return to the throne room to play for the king after this violent outburst. David placed supreme trust in the Lord’s ability to protect his servant in every circumstance.