Bible Pathways 04/07/2003
April 7
Read I Samuel 19 -- 21
In Today's Reading:
Saul attempts to kill David; Jonathan's covenant with David; David's flight to Nob; David flees for his life to Gath in Philistine territory
David became a national hero and, as time passed, King Saul became increasingly jealous of his popularity. Saul ordered his son Jonathan and all his servants to kill David.Saul's son Jonathan, however, liked David very muchso he told David: My father Saul is seeking to kill you. . . . Stay in a secret place and hide yourself (I Samuel 19:1-2).
Prior to this, Saul had manipulated circumstances to expose David to the Philistines, hoping they would kill him (18:25). Jonathan spoke well of David to his father Saul. The king shouldn't sin against his servant. . . . He took his life in his hands when he struck down the Philistine,and the LORD performed a great act of deliverance for all Israel. You saw it and rejoiced. So why would you sin against innocent blood by killing David for no reason? (19:4-5).
Saul had become violent, with an uncontrolled temper. He considered any opposition as treason. Jonathan revealed remarkable spiritual insight and courage when he confronted his father the king in defense of David. The risk was very real since, in a fit of rage, Saul denounced his son and, on another occasion, he even attempted to kill Jonathan (20:33).
Jonathan could have avoided any risk to himself if he had decided not to get involved in defending David. To defend an innocent person from slander or harm's way, whatever the cost to self, is to remain faithful to biblical principles and do what is morally right.
We too may find ourselves in situations where people whom we know are being threatened, accused, maligned, intimidated, or taken advantage of. We are then faced with the decision of whether or not to get involved. We dare not be an accomplice to evil by remaining silent, but we must act as Jonathan did. There is a direct connection between what we truly believe and how we behave. The apostle James urged believers to be doers of the word and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves (James 1:22).
Jesus reminds us to love your enemies, and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be sons of your Father in heaven (Matthew 5:44-45).
Christ Portrayed:
By David, who, as a servant of Saul, suffered at the hands of the one whom he chose to serve (I Samuel 19:1,10-11). Jesus suffered at the hands of the ones He came to serve and to save. But what God predicted through the mouth of all the prophets — that His Messiah would suffer — He has fulfilled in this way (Acts 3:18).
Prayer Needs:
Government Official: Rep. Robert Brady (PA) · Country: United States (273 million) in North America · Major languages: English and Spanish · Religious freedom · 51% Protestant; 22% Roman Catholic; 17% other religions; 4% cults; 3% Jewish; 2% Eastern Orthodox; 1% Muslim · Prayer Suggestion: Commit your fears to the Lord and He will give you peace (Proverbs 3:24-26).
Optional Reading: Acts 8
Memory Verse for the Week: I John 2:5
