June 6, 2025 • 51 mins
Chapter 08 of Heroes in the Bible: David with Dr. Tony Evans is inspired by 1 Samuel 19-20.
Exiled - Saul commits completely to his hatred, and seeks to kill David with his own hands. By the grace of God, David has the love of his wife and brother. However their love cannot protect him forever.
Today's opening prayer is inspired by Hebrews 13:5, Be free from the love of money, content with such things as you have, for he has said, “I will in no way leave you, neither will I in any way forsake you.”
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Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Speaker 1 (00:00):
Hi, I'm doctor Tony Evans, your host for Heroes in
the Bible. If you've enjoyed this podcast so far, please
share it with your family and friends and help us
spread God's word. Welcome to the Epic Adventure of David,
a story of honor, battle, jealousy, darkness, friendship, love, scandal,
and murder. While most people know of David the myth,
(00:23):
few know about David the man. In this episode, the
meteoric rise of David is put to a halt. I
saw up until this point, David has had nothing but victories.
He is slaying giants, defeated armies, fallen in love, and
gained allies. But now our hero faces his toughest challenge yet.
His resilience and patience will be put through the gauntlet,
(00:46):
and he will be betrayed by more than one Ally,
the time has come for David to be put to
the ultimate test. This episode is the beginning of a
very long season in David's life, a time when he
isn't in the comfort of his father's home or the
favorite champion of the Palace. David is going to be
sent on the run and we will be left with
(01:08):
uncertainty on who he will become. This episode introduces us
to a new character, Abner. Although his time is brief
in this episode, we should pay attention to him. He
will be very important later on in the story. David
will also visit an old friend. I won't give away who,
though you will have to listen to find out. This
(01:31):
friend will remind David of his calling and give him
boldness for the fight ahead. Before all this transpires, we
will open up with a prelude, a story taken from
the days of old, before Israel was a nation or
the law was written into stone. Another chosen hero will
be forced to leave in fear of a loved one.
But what God does with him in exile is worth it.
(01:53):
God does glorious things in exile, as we will come
to see in later episodes. Let's learn more about God's
faithful In episode eight exiled.
Speaker 2 (02:09):
Prelude to Chapter eight, the heat of the day had
finally disappeared as the sun set over the mountains. From
the forests of Canaan, Esau emerged with a deer carried
on his shoulders. His broad and muscular frame marched home.
Esa dropped the deer, skimmed it, and prepared the meat
for his father. A fragrant stew boiled under the fire.
(02:32):
Esan smiled, pleased with the work of his hands. He
poured the stew into a bowl and walked into his
father's tent. Isaac was lying in bed, old, blind and
near death. Esau knelt beside his father and handed him
the bowl.
Speaker 3 (02:48):
My father, I have returned from the hunt. I have
prepared your favorite stew, take and eat, so that you
might bless me before you pass.
Speaker 2 (02:57):
Isaac propped himself up in his bed and reached for
his son's face. Esau leaned forward and let him place
his hand on his cheek. Confused, Isaac pulled away and said.
Speaker 4 (03:09):
Who is this that I am speaking to?
Speaker 3 (03:13):
I am your first Frin's son, Esau. I have returned
from my hunt so that you might bless me according
to my birthright.
Speaker 2 (03:19):
Isaac's old hand began to tremble. Esau reached to take it,
but his father pulled away in frustration.
Speaker 4 (03:26):
Ooh, who is it then that brought me food? Before?
Speaker 5 (03:32):
There was another who came in here, saying he was
my first born, Esau.
Speaker 4 (03:39):
It was to hear my gave the blessing he saw.
Speaker 2 (03:42):
Panicked, he shook his head and raised his voice.
Speaker 3 (03:46):
No, no, Father, I swear I am misa whoever came
before me was an impostor? Who wasn't me? It must
have been.
Speaker 2 (03:54):
He paused and looked around the tent. An empty bowl
was beside the bed, and a pile of gold fur
arrested at the entrance.
Speaker 6 (04:01):
Jacob, He whispered, it was Jacob, he tricked my father.
Speaker 2 (04:06):
Into Esau looked up at Isaac and took his hand.
Speaker 3 (04:10):
Please, Father, please bless me as well. Have you never
deserved any blessing for me? Please do not leave me
here alone.
Speaker 2 (04:17):
Sorrow, rage and anguish wound up in Esau's heart. His
brother had tricked him into giving up his birthright, and
now he had stolen what mattered most, his father's blessing.
Isaac was enraged at Jacob, yet could not recant his
blessing over him, and he would not undo what the
Lord had set in motion.
Speaker 4 (04:37):
I have made him lord over.
Speaker 2 (04:40):
You, Isaac said, I have.
Speaker 4 (04:43):
Blessed him as an inheritor of all God has given me,
and you will serve under him.
Speaker 2 (04:51):
Esau's face fell into his hands. A deep well of
sorrow raged within him.
Speaker 3 (04:57):
Is there any blessing you can give me? Father, am
I not worthy of anything.
Speaker 2 (05:01):
Isaac rested his hand on his son's head. He breathed
in deeply and recited ancient poetry. The words were a
poor consolation to Esau. They might as well have been
a complete rejection. Isaac spoke thus, saying.
Speaker 5 (05:16):
Behold, away from the richness of the earth you shall dwell,
and away from the dew of heaven on high you
shall live by your sword, and you shall serve your brother.
Speaker 4 (05:32):
But when you grow restless, you shall break his yoke
from your neck.
Speaker 2 (05:38):
Esau left his father and stood over the fire. His
large chest was huffing with anger. A dark part of
ESA's heart was awakened that day. A spirit of jealousy
and contempt overwhelmed him. When Isaac had breathed his last
and went to be with his father Abraham, Esa sighed
a deep breath and sad.
Speaker 3 (05:59):
The days of morning my father are approaching. After I mourn,
I will kill my brother Jacob.
Speaker 2 (06:06):
Jacob caught wind of this and fled out of his country.
The hero God had chosen was made an exile from
his own country, fleeing from his own family. Chapter eight Exiled.
Speaker 4 (06:22):
The unity of our nation is under attack.
Speaker 2 (06:25):
Saul yelled from the war room in his palace. Torchlight
flickered against Saul's body, casting a large shadow over the
coarse stone walls. His trusted servants and advisers stood around
the king, along with a few of the elders. A
single tapestry draped over the back wall. The firelight illuminated
its elegant design of the nation of Israel, all twelve
(06:49):
tribes represented in a single map. The king drew out
a dagger and tore the tapestry in two.
Speaker 4 (06:55):
Don't you see what he has done to their people?
They praise him as if he he is the lord himself.
We cannot have him dividing us in drawing the people
away from for me. If they did not trust me
over David, we will have a civil war on our hands.
He will revolt against us when the moment is right
(07:17):
for him.
Speaker 2 (07:18):
The elders and advisers mumbled amongst themselves. Some agreed, but
others were skeptical of whether the king was in his
right mind. Remaining in the back with his shoulder leaning
against the wall was Jonathan. He listened intently to his
father's ravings against David. They were the rants of a
paranoid madman. However, he was king, an absolute power to
(07:41):
execute David was his soft lailed his arms and swung
his dagger.
Speaker 4 (07:46):
We will make it look like an accident. The last
thing we're desire is for the people to turn against
me for killing him. Or perhaps we could frame the Philistines.
No doubt the people would believe they assassinated the giant slayer.
Speaker 2 (08:01):
Jonathan's heart beat swiftly as he listened to Saul plan
out his best friend's murder. He waited for a moment
to slip away to warn David. As Saul got caught
up in planning with his advisers, Jonathan slipped away into
the shadows. He ran swiftly through the palace gardens and
down the road where David and Mehal lived. The sky
(08:23):
was thick with marks of midnight. The stars spread over
the horizon like a steady moving tide. The cool evening
breeze slipped through the window of David's room, caressing his cheek.
He brought the blanket's end and rolled closer to me call.
He enjoyed the warm company of his bride. Never before
had he felt such a serene sense of belonging. He
(08:45):
belonged to God's chosen people, to the armies of Israel,
to the house of King Saul, and to his beloved wife.
It seemed as though nothing could steal away the bliss
David had rightfully earned. In the stillness of the cold night,
wrap in blankets, David sighed and thanked God for his
grace towards him. David closed his eyes and slipped into
(09:07):
a deep sleep. His weary and battle hardened bones were
growing heavy. As he sank into his bed, he dreamt
of green pastures and still waters. He dreamed of the
babbling brooks and baws of the sheep. All was peaceful
until a hand reached out from the darkness over his mouth.
David awoke in a panic and reached desperately for his dagger.
(09:30):
Just as he was about to strike, he saw the
moonlight illuminating Jonathan's face. He placed a finger over his
lips and gestured for him to join him outside. David
nodded and slipped quietly out of bed so ma Call
could remain asleep. The two men stepped outside into the cold.
David wrapped the royal robe Jonathan had given him around
(09:51):
his shoulders. Jonathan was clearly nervous he always stroked his
beard when he was nervous. David placed his hand on
his shoulder.
Speaker 4 (09:59):
What is this about, Jonathan, What is troubling you?
Speaker 2 (10:03):
Jonathan placed his hands on David's face.
Speaker 6 (10:06):
You are in danger, little brother. My father seeks to
take your life. It could be tonight, or it could
be next week, but his mind seems to be set
on killing you.
Speaker 2 (10:15):
David gave an impassive nod. I see, he said, solemnly.
Speaker 6 (10:20):
You do not seem too surprised by this.
Speaker 2 (10:22):
Jonathan inquired, is.
Speaker 6 (10:24):
There something you're not telling me?
Speaker 2 (10:25):
David crossed his arms, trying to keep himself warm under
the crisp evening air. A soft breeze made his hair
fall over his eyes as he looked down.
Speaker 4 (10:34):
Your father has tried to kill me already.
Speaker 2 (10:37):
David said.
Speaker 4 (10:38):
He attempted to pin me to the wall with his spear.
When he missed, he sent another one. I escaped before
he could throw a third.
Speaker 6 (10:47):
Why didn't you tell any of this to me?
Speaker 4 (10:49):
Because your father is a troubled soul, but more importantly,
he is my king, David said sternly. It is my
duty to give him mercy for any slights against me.
After all, it was not too long after that that
he gave me your sister's hand in marriage. Jonathan shook
his head.
Speaker 6 (11:09):
Your loyalty may be your undoing giant's lair.
Speaker 4 (11:12):
It may be yours as well, Brother David said, seriously,
you are taking a great risk by being here to
warn me. Tell me what should I do.
Speaker 6 (11:23):
Be on your guard in the morning, stay in a
secret place and hide yourself. Tomorrow I will go out
into the fields with my father. I will speak well
of you and test to see where his heart is.
Allow me to be your advocate.
Speaker 2 (11:35):
David smiled and hugged Jonathan. He held him tightly.
Speaker 4 (11:39):
People with unreliable friends meet early deaths, but there are
friends who stick closer than brothers.
Speaker 2 (11:47):
Jonathan patted David on the back.
Speaker 6 (11:49):
I will let you know if I hear anything from
my father. Stay safe and stay hidden for now.
Speaker 2 (11:55):
David went back into his home, being sure to keep
his dagger even closer. Jonathan slipped back across the garden.
Back home on the other side of the palace, Saul
sat awake near the fire. His mind wandered into unpleasant places,
like a ship lost at sea. His weary mind slipped
in and out of sleep until Eventually he passed out
(12:16):
on his throne. The next morning, Jonathan arose early to
meet his father in the farm lands of Gibea. Saul
took great care into ensuring the vibrancy of Israel's agriculture
and livestock. He needed his people well fed. Hungry citizens
made for fickle followers. He needed their loyalty. He craved it.
(12:39):
Jonathan walked the fields with his father. They spoke of
the kingdom, battle strategy, and their family. Despite all his flaws,
Jonathan loved his father. He admired his steadfast attention to
the safety of Israel. As the two of them spoke,
Jonathan was able to see small glimpses of why his
father was chosen to be king in the first place.
(13:01):
Lingering impressions of past humility made brief appearances. Saul was
not always the paranoid and unstable man that stood before him.
He was once a prince of promise and a beacon
of hope to the infant nation of Israel.
Speaker 6 (13:14):
Father, there is a matter I wish to speak.
Speaker 2 (13:18):
To you about, Jonathan said, shyly speak, Saul said, enjoying
the sunlight on his cheeks.
Speaker 6 (13:24):
Your anger against David seems irrational to me. What is
he done wrong?
Speaker 2 (13:30):
Saul paused his stride and looked down at his son.
It is not what he.
Speaker 4 (13:34):
Has done, Jonathan, but what he will do. The people
have given him glory and honor. It is only a
matter of time before they seek to give him the kingdom, Your.
Speaker 6 (13:46):
Kingdom, God's kingdom, Father, Jonathan responded.
Speaker 2 (13:51):
Saul scoffed and dismissed the correction with the wave of
his hand.
Speaker 6 (13:55):
Jonathan persisted, I beg you to not sin against your
servant day, but he has not sinned against you. His
deeds have brought you in this nation nothing but prosperity.
When you and I were faced with the option of
standing up to the giant, we wavered. Yet he stood
on our behalf. The Lord has clearly worked good through him.
(14:15):
Why would you seek to put that good to an
early end? You yourself rejoiced when he slew Goliath. Why
shed innocent blood against a faithful warrior, a trusted servant,
and your son in law.
Speaker 2 (14:27):
Saul looked down at the ground beneath his feet. Although
the ground was firm and easy to walk on, he
felt uneasy and off balance. Saul had not felt right
for a very long time. He felt his senses and
his mind dull with paranoia and contempt. He sighed and
looked at his son. He knew he was right. David
(14:48):
had truly done nothing to deserve such hatred. For a
brief moment, Saul could see clearly. He placed his hand
on his son's shoulder. You are a wise man, my son.
As the Lord lives, David shall not be harmed by
my hand. Saul smiled, then continued walking. Relieved, Jonathan found
(15:10):
David and told him the news. David was restored to
be in the presence of Saul once again. He attended
meetings for battle strategy. He sat with his family for
feasts and parties. He played music for him beside his throne.
All seemed well, and normalcy was restored until the Philistines
mounted yet another attack. Thunder roared from the heavens. A
(15:34):
storm of great force was blowing in from the north.
David stood with his men atop a hill, ready to
descend into the battlefield against the Philistines. The enemy horde
banged their swords against their shields, beckoning David to them.
The giant slayer looked up watching the heavens stir violently.
Rain was coming. It would not be a clean fight.
(15:56):
There was no time to waste. The longer they waited,
the less advantage they had. David raised his sword high
in the air and splashed it downward. His archers sent
a flurry of arrows towards the Philistines. They retaliated with
just as many. The skies crackled with wood and metal.
As the rains began to fall. David ran first towards
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the enemy, with his men to his back. They all
followed with courageous vigor. The two armies met in the
middle of the battlefield. The thunder and rain drowned out
the cracking bone and tearing flashes. It was the most
gruesome battle David had ever seen. From every angle, another
one of his men fell to the Philistine. He swipes
(16:39):
through the enemy lines, leaving dozens of bodies to his wake.
Speaker 4 (16:42):
Press in, he yelled, do not lose heart.
Speaker 2 (16:46):
David's cries pierced through the white noise of wind and rain.
His men were emboldened by his courage. They struggled through
mud and filth, and slowly gaining the advantage over the Philistines.
David never let go of his sword. Every attack that
Philistines counted against him failed. The Lord was before him,
and his men knew that they were in the presence
(17:07):
of God's chosen Hera. The skies ceased their onslaught of
rain and lightning. All was still. For a moment. David
paused to look around him. He was on top of
a hill on the enemy's side of the battlefield. He
looked behind him. His men were standing, seeing that they
had killed every last Philistine that came up against them.
(17:30):
Nearly a hundred men lay dead at their feet. Through
all the struggle, they never lost hope. David drove his
sword into the mud and fell to his knees. He
looked up to the heavens. The sun was peeking out
through the darkened skies, and it seemed as though the
Lord was smiling down at them. David wept and the
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soldier's cheer They rejoiced at David's bravery and leadership. Ward
of the victory reached the ears of Saul. As he
listened to the men swoon over the giant slayer's bravery,
the tormenting spirit returned and he forgot all about his
promise to Jonathan. He once again longed to see David
pin to the wall of the palace with his spear.
(18:15):
David's music filled the throne room. The melody was unfamiliar
to Saul. It had a different rising and falling than
David's typical songs of praise. This song was filled with
a rising hope that continued to build until the very
last moment. The joy expressed in the music was like
a burning coal upon Saul's brooding heart. He hated David's
(18:36):
connection to the Lord. He hated David's victories and his humility.
Everything David was, Saul hated. The light of David's countenance
made the darkness in Saul's heart ever more apparent. Saul
once again gripped his spirit tightly instood to his feet.
He yelled and hurled the spear at the shepherd. However,
(18:57):
David was prepared for another attack from Saul. He shifted
to his left, and the spear flew right past his
shoulder and pierced the cedar bean behind him. David stood
there facing the King. Saul's brows furrowed and nostrils flared.
Hatred had spilled over, and David saw in the King
the same eyes as Goliath, it was no longer safe
(19:21):
to be in his presence. As Saul began to mount
another attack, David escaped through the back door and ran
into the night. David burst through the door of his home.
McAll startled from her bed.
Speaker 7 (19:34):
What happened?
Speaker 2 (19:35):
She asked, worriedly.
Speaker 4 (19:37):
This is the second time your father has attempted to kill.
Speaker 2 (19:40):
Me, David explained, Before.
Speaker 4 (19:43):
I thought it was an outburst of anger, so I
forgave him. However, now I know he wants me dead.
Speaker 2 (19:51):
Mecall was in shock. Her eyes widened, and she frantically
ran to the window and looked out into the darkness.
Small torchlights be seen nearly fifty yards away. May Call
knew her father well. If he wanted David dead and
was unable to do so in private, he would have
his servants do it for him.
Speaker 7 (20:12):
My father's men are lurking in.
Speaker 2 (20:13):
The shadows, she said, in a hushed tone.
Speaker 7 (20:16):
It is not safe for you to be here. They
will wait for you to come out in the morning
and slit your throat.
Speaker 2 (20:22):
David pulled his hair back tight and groaned.
Speaker 4 (20:25):
What options are there? I cannot fight the king's men.
They are my countrymen.
Speaker 2 (20:30):
May call grabbed her husband's face with both her hands.
Speaker 7 (20:34):
Listen to me. If you do not escape tonight, they
will kill you. You must leave.
Speaker 2 (20:42):
David shook his head and held may Call's hands in
his I will not leave you.
Speaker 4 (20:47):
I will not leave Jonathan or my men. Perhaps I
can reason with Saul, he is my father in law.
Perhaps the Lord will change his heart.
Speaker 2 (20:58):
May Call released David's grasp and began packing up food
in a sack.
Speaker 7 (21:03):
You are a good man, David, but woefully innocent when
it comes to my father. He has not listened to
the Lord in years. You must go, Jonathan and I
will be okay, and your men will always be loyal
to you. But none of us want to see you dead.
Speaker 2 (21:20):
She grabbed David's face and brought it close to hers.
She kissed him passionately and smiled. The two of them
fastened a rope together, and David lowered himself out the window,
escaping into the hills outside the city. May Call took
pillows and hid them under blankets to look like David.
She put goats fur on the top to look like
(21:40):
his hair, then crawled into bed and waited up all night.
She knew the servants would come in the morning to
kill David. It was only a matter of time. Early
that morning, may Call her to knocking at the door.
Who is it, she asked ignorantly, although she knew it
was her father's men come to kill. At the door
(22:01):
was Abner, the commander of Saul's army and most trusted
servant and adviser. Saul had sent him personally to seated
David's death. He trusted no one more than Abner.
Speaker 4 (22:13):
We come from your father, my lady, he said, we
are here to speak with your husband. Could you get him.
Speaker 2 (22:19):
Maycall's heart began to pound in her chest. She heroically
saved her husband, but she was now growing more nervous
for her own safety. Panicked, may Call cleared her throat
and said, he is ill.
Speaker 7 (22:33):
You will have to come by tomorrow. I am afraid
he is in bed and cannot get up.
Speaker 4 (22:37):
We have strict orders from the King Mecall.
Speaker 2 (22:40):
Abner replied sternly, we will visit him in the room.
The men made their way in without Maykall's permission, slowly
opening the door into their room. They drew their swords,
unwilling to take their chances with such a formidable opponent
like David. Abner took his sword and raised it into
the air. He drove it down into the bed, being
(23:03):
sure to put all his weight into it. His men
joined in stabbing and slashing down to the figure in
the bed. However, it did not take long for feathers
and fur to begin pouring out from under the blankets.
Abner threw off the blankets, revealing the pillows and goat skins.
He turned back violently with his sword drawn, and may Call,
(23:23):
where is he? Abner yelled? Where is David? Maycall fell
down onto the floor, crying. Abner rolled his eyes back
and sheathed his sword. Go get the king, he ordered
his men.
Speaker 4 (23:36):
The last thing I want is to harm his daughter
tried to get the truth.
Speaker 2 (23:40):
Saul's men beckoned him to David and Maycall's home. He
stormed in with thundering anger. His large frame and deep
voice shook the house, and may Call quivered in fear
from her father. He had never heard her, but he
was clearly not in his right mind. He had attempted
to pin David to the wall twice with his spear.
(24:00):
There was no clear limit to what he would do.
Saul bent down to his daughter, who was crying on
the floor next to the bed. His anger could be
seen through his teeth. Daughter, he said, holding back his outrage.
Where is he? May Call had a decision to make.
Would she honor her husband or pander to her father?
(24:23):
She weighed her options. It was very likely that David
would remain on the run for a very long while.
May Call was used to a life of luxury and privilege.
As much as she loved David, she loved her comforts more.
Speaker 4 (24:39):
She looked up, Oh, father.
Speaker 2 (24:42):
She said, wrapping her arms around his neck.
Speaker 7 (24:45):
Thank the Lord you have come. David threatened my life.
He told me that he would kill me if I
did not help him escape.
Speaker 2 (24:53):
Tears ran down her face, However, they were tears of
shame and guilt for what she was doing. So all
held his daughter, appalled at her words. Even he who
hated David, could not believe he would do such a thing.
Speaker 4 (25:07):
I promise you, my daughter, I will find him and
destroy him. He will not hurt you again.
Speaker 2 (25:14):
Saul stood up and gestured for Abner.
Speaker 4 (25:16):
Send out scouts. Have them search for David, but tell
no one we want his life. I cannot have people
rising up to protect him.
Speaker 2 (25:25):
Abner nodded and he sent men throughout the city to
search for David. David ran all day until he arrived
at Naoth in Ramah. The sun was setting, creating a
crimson glow over the horizon. On any other day, it
would have been worth sitting on the hill to write
songs about the glory of God, but this day was different.
(25:48):
David needed protection, so he sought wisdom from the only
man he truly trusted. He walked up a dirt pathway
leading to a house sitting on a hill overlooking the city.
David felt to distinct shift in the air as he
approached the home. He looked to his left, seeing a
stone altar covered in blood. Smoke rose from an opening
(26:09):
in the roof, and flickering light came to the windows.
David approached the large wooden door and knocked. He stepped
back and waited. The door opened, and the sweet smell
of incense and cooked meat released into the air. Near David.
The young shepherd immediately bowed, I am sorry for disturbing you.
I had nowhere else to go. The figure standing before
(26:32):
him limped its way outside and leaned down to him.
David looked up to see the old and gray face
of Samuel smiling. He had not seen him since he
was anointed in Bethlehem. His presence was warm and comforting.
A few tears streamed down David's cheeks. In such a
short period of time, David had gone from a forgotten
(26:54):
shepherd boy to a famed warrior. Seeing Samuel made him
feel like a child again. Come, Samuel's raspy and dusty voice.
Speaker 4 (27:03):
Said, we shall worship the Lord together, and he shall
deliver you from the vengeance of Saul.
Speaker 2 (27:09):
David took Samuel by the arm, and the two of
them walked into his home. Samuel's students were sitting by
the fire and enjoying a meal. David sat among them
and told them all of what had happened. He spoke
into the night, sharing all the things the Lord had
done since he defeated Goliath. He told tales of Jonathan
may Call and the armies of Israel. He shared about
(27:33):
the disturbed nature of Saul and his attempts to kill him.
In everything, Samuel and his students were silent. They allowed
David to pour out his emotions and soul. They allowed
him to cry, laugh and pray. Then, after sharing a
good meal, they sent David to bed to rest. They
knew that Saul and his men would be there soon.
(27:54):
They had to pray to the Lord for protection and provision.
If David truly was the anointed chosen King, no doubt
God would provide.
Speaker 4 (28:04):
One of our men came back with reports of David.
Speaker 2 (28:07):
See Rama, Abner said to the king. Saul leaned back
on his throne, brooding over a cup of wine. His
eyes darted over to Abner. He snarled and took a sip.
Speaker 4 (28:19):
No doubt he has gone to see Samuel. Both of
them are probably conspiring against me as we speak. Go
and take David by any means necessary.
Speaker 2 (28:32):
Abner bowed, and he sent men to retrieve David from
Nahath and Ramah. The next day, Saul's men walked up
the dirt path with their swords drawn. They could see
the smoke rising from the home. Outside the home, Samuel
and his students were prophesying and worshiping the Lord. Samuel
(28:52):
stood in front of them with his hands raised. They
declared the goodness and justice of God and proclaimed his
mighty acts on the hill. As the men drew closer
with their swords drawn, they felt the shift in the air.
Their hearts began to flutter in their chests, and the
spirit of God fell down upon them. Overwhelmed with the
(29:13):
sense of God's presence, they too began to prophesy and worship.
They had come to take David violently, but instead they
were met with a fortified wall of praise and worship.
God had protected his chosen king, not with weapons of warfare,
but with his spirit moving in the hearts of wicked men.
(29:37):
The men returned empty handed, but beaming with the joy
of the Lord. Their spiritual glow vexed Saul. His anger
was kindled against his men when he heard that they
had worshiped God instead of obeying him. Saul stood up
from his throne and rode to Ramah himself, with a
dozen men behind him. He came heavily armed and prepared
(29:59):
to fight. He knew that David was a mighty warrior,
and somehow Samuel and his prophets had cast a spell
on his men. Saul charged up the hill leading up
to Samuel's home. As he crossed the threshold, Saul could
feel the presence of God like the embrace of an
old friend from years ago. Saul ceased his charge and paused.
(30:21):
He looked down at his hands and his feet. Not
sure what to do, he took a step further. Seeing
Samuel's students praying only a few yards away, he approached them,
and the tug of God's spirit became homing. Saul fell
to his hands and knees, his heart ached from the
burst of benevolent power rushing through him like a mighty river.
(30:44):
It was almost too much for him to bear. Saul
looked up to the heavens with tears rushing down his face.
He knew that the Lord was only revealing himself to
protect David. He even knew in his heart that he
would not change his ways a less. He was grateful,
grateful that he could experience the spirit of God once again,
(31:06):
even for just a brief moment. Saul tore his royal
robes and began to worship and prophesy with the others.
After this, the spirit of the Lord compelled him to depart.
David watched out the window at the king. Leaving down
the hill. He turned to Samuel, who was sitting by
the fire. Once again, Samuel beckoned him over and had
(31:29):
him sit beside him. David spoke first, saying.
Speaker 4 (31:33):
Thank you for all you have done, however, I put
you and your students in danger by being here. I
shall leave to night.
Speaker 2 (31:42):
Samuel smiled and tilted his head towards the fire. The
coals had been tended too carefully by Samuel. They beat
like tiny little hearts in the flame. A few of
the coals popped. He looked at David sitting beside him.
His eyes were attentive to Samuel's every move.
Speaker 4 (32:00):
Are you able to keep the coals burning?
Speaker 2 (32:02):
Samuel asked. His voice was deep and sonorous. Even in
his old age, his voice maintained its resonant authority. It
was as if the words of God flowed out of
his mouth from a deep cavern. David looked at the fire.
I am not sure, David said, honestly.
Speaker 4 (32:22):
I suppose the flames are both started and sustained by
the Lord.
Speaker 2 (32:28):
Samuel said nothing. He touched David's head, as he did
the first day they met. He prayed with him, and
then sent him on his way. David disappeared into the night,
back to Gabeah. He needed to speak with Jonathan. The
dual nature of Saul had left him confused. Was he
able to mend his relationship with Saul? Would he be
(32:51):
able to reconcile, or was David forced to live on
the run forever? He needed such answers. Jonathan sat on
a large stone wall, looking down at the fields of
grain outside his home. The gentle evening wind made the
grain move like the seas. The sound of crickets chirping
harmonized with the whistles of the breeze coming in from
(33:13):
the east. It was a place David and he would
often meet. They would speak of war, the wonders of God,
and their dreams for the future. Jonathan would often chuckle
to David, comparing everything to herding sheep. As the wind
picked up spead across the fields, Jonathan could have sworn
he heard a voice say his name, Jonathan. The voice whispered, Jonathan,
(33:37):
it said again. The young prince looked down the hill
sloping into the fields. David was there, resting his back
against a stone. Jonathan hopped off the wall and embraced David.
I thought you had left forever, Jonathan exclaimed.
Speaker 6 (33:52):
My father has been mad in search of you.
Speaker 4 (33:54):
What was my crime, Jonathan? What is my guilt that
your father would seek my life? Have I not served
him faithfully? Have I not honored him?
Speaker 2 (34:04):
David was frantic and frustrated. He was weary from hiding
and becoming flustered from the sleepless nights. Jonathan reassured David
and put his arm round him.
Speaker 6 (34:14):
My father vowed to me that he would not kill you.
I do not believe he.
Speaker 2 (34:18):
Will, Jonathan said, in ignorance.
Speaker 6 (34:21):
My father does nothing without first disclosing it to me.
If he had planned on killing you, he would tell me.
Surely he is looking for you because of something else.
Speaker 2 (34:28):
David shook his head. He paused and looked out of
the fields. The breeze and sound of moving grass reminded
him of simpler times with his sheep. David, still looking forward, said.
Speaker 4 (34:41):
Your father knows we are closer than brothers. He would
not tell you of his plans to kill me again.
He probably suspects you are the one who warned me
in the first place that he would kill me.
Speaker 6 (34:53):
My loyalty is to you before my father. David, we
have a bond and an unbreakable covenant. Tell me what
you need and I'll do whatever you.
Speaker 2 (35:03):
Want, Jonathan said. David looked over at his friend. For
so long he had been alone, even in the large
family of Jesse David was always the outcast, the runt.
His heart was full of gladness for his friend Jonathan.
He feared that in the midst of the chaos, he
would be abandoned and left. David smiled and looked up
(35:27):
at the moon. He pointed to it and said.
Speaker 4 (35:30):
Tomorrow is the new moon. Many people will be gathering
to celebrate. Your father will probably be expecting me to
feast with him and the elders. I am his son
in law, and to not attend would be a great
insult to him. I will hide instead, and you will
tell him I am in Bethlehem making a sacrifice with
(35:53):
my clan. It will, no doubt enrage him and kindle
his anger towards me even greater. However, if your father
respects my decision to be with my kinsman, then we
will know he means me no harm. What if he is.
Speaker 6 (36:07):
Outraged, Jonathan asked, what will that tell us?
Speaker 4 (36:11):
If your father is angry, it will show his heart.
Speaker 2 (36:15):
David said. He paused again. Tears began to well up
in David's eyes.
Speaker 4 (36:22):
You should have seen the hatred in his eyes, Jonathan,
David whispered, you should have seen the disdain he had
for me. He looked at me like I was an abomination.
I might as well have been a philistine to him.
Speaker 2 (36:37):
David drew his sword and handed it to Jonathan.
Speaker 4 (36:40):
You and I have made a covenant with one another.
You have sworn to protect me. However, if you see
any guilt in me, please drive this sword into my chest.
Speaker 2 (36:54):
Never, Jonathan yelled, pushing away David's sword.
Speaker 6 (36:57):
Get up, Come with me, Jonathan.
Speaker 2 (37:00):
David up, and the two of them walked down to
the fields. They stood there, listening to the humming of
the wind and the chirping of crickets. Jonathan pointed to
the caves nestled in the hills beyond the field.
Speaker 6 (37:12):
You hide out in the caves beyond this field. I'll
send word of my father's temperament.
Speaker 2 (37:17):
Thank you, brother, Jonathan breathed in deeply inside.
Speaker 6 (37:21):
Remember what I told you before when I gave you
my armor and.
Speaker 2 (37:24):
Robe, he asked. His tone was serious.
Speaker 6 (37:27):
I told you you would certainly become king. I still
believe it, and I am certain my father believes it.
That's why he hates you. The wind ceased its whistling,
and all was still for a moment. Jonathan choked on
his words. He was holding back tears. Sometimes I linger
in the halls of the palace and listen to you
(37:50):
play music to my father. You have a deep well
of love for the Lord, David. Your music speaks to
your relationship with God. He will show you favor wherever
you go. He will exalt you as king and destroy
all those who make you their enemy. All those who
seek to destroy you now will be eliminated, and God
will pave the way for your kingdom. Please, I beg
(38:14):
you show love to my house. When God removes your enemies,
be kind to my wife and children.
Speaker 2 (38:22):
David said nothing in response. He wanted to humbly reject
Jonathan's prediction that he would be made king. However, David
knew that it was what he was destined for. He
had come to realize the reason Samuel anointed him in
the pastures so long ago. He was chosen to be
the next king of Israel, and David swore to show
(38:43):
Jonathan and his entire household love and favor. Jonathan spoke again, saying, in.
Speaker 6 (38:50):
The next three days, I will go out into the
field for target practice where you are hiding. I will
shoot three arrows towards you and send my servant to
go and retrieve them. And if you hear me yell
the the arrows are on that side, it means the
coast is clear for you to return. If you hear
me yell, go further run, then that means Saul is
still seeking your life and you should flee.
Speaker 8 (39:12):
You are a kind man, Jonathan, David said, I will
wait here.
Speaker 2 (39:17):
The two embraced, and Jonathan left to return to his family.
David walked into the dark and rough openings in the hills.
He set his belongings down and leaned his head against
the cave. He sighed, and the echoes of his breath
traveled deep into the caverns. The young shepherd closed his
eyes and began singing a song to the Lord.
Speaker 8 (39:39):
Oh Lord, my God, and you I take refuge, Save
me from my pursuers. Deliver me, o Lord, my God.
If I have done this, if this is my evil doing,
let the enemy pursue my soul and devour.
Speaker 4 (39:56):
It like the lions. May they lay my glory in
the dust Selah.
Speaker 2 (40:04):
As David sang, his heart was comforted. The Lord met
him in his anguish. There was nowhere he could run
where the love and passion of God could not follow.
He drifted to sleep, wondering about the future of his life,
his family, and his kingdom. The moon festival had begun
(40:26):
and the elders gathered to celebrate with Saul and his family.
Saul wore his robe of elegant colors, flashing his wealth
before the nobles of Israel. He paraded his family around
like the jewels on his crown. However, when David's place
at the king's table was empty, Saul took notice. Where
(40:46):
is the son of Jesse? He asked Jonathan.
Speaker 4 (40:49):
First he threatens my daughter's life, and now he has
the gall to shirk his royal duties.
Speaker 2 (40:56):
Jonathan peered across the table at his father. He did
his best to read him, to look into his thoughts
and motives.
Speaker 6 (41:04):
David asked me if he could go back to Bethlehem
to make a sacrifice with his clan. His father and
brothers demanded it, so I allowed it.
Speaker 2 (41:11):
Saal drove his knife into the table.
Speaker 4 (41:14):
You foolish and useless son.
Speaker 2 (41:18):
He yelled. Everyone at the table tightened and looked over
at Jonathan. He was motionless and oddly unriled. Do you
think I'm a fool?
Speaker 4 (41:27):
I know you want him to be king in your place.
Speaker 2 (41:29):
Saul took his plate of food and threw it against
the wall. He picked up his spear and pointed it
at his son.
Speaker 4 (41:36):
You shame yourself and your mother. David is planning to
rip this kingdom away from me.
Speaker 2 (41:42):
Jonathan's face was impassive. Now he was witnessing his father's
true colors. He stood up slowly and looked deeply into
his father's eyes.
Speaker 6 (41:53):
He is the lord who has taken your kingdom away, father,
not David.
Speaker 2 (41:58):
Saul took his spear and hurled it at Jonathan, as
he once did with David. He missed, and the spear
was driven into the wall behind him. The room was silent.
Saul was huffing in anger. He turned to Abner and
his guards and yelled.
Speaker 4 (42:14):
Go and find the boy. Do not rest until he
has brought to me. I will have his head on
a silver platter.
Speaker 2 (42:22):
You will not, Jonathan yelled violently, His blood boiled with anger.
Saul had crossed the line, and Jonathan would not allow
him to continue in his madness without a fight. I will,
Saul said, I will have his life, and you will
not stop me. You are too weak to kill me
(42:47):
with those words. Saul stormed off to gather his men.
The hunt for David was about to begin. Jonathan arose
early before the sun rise the next morning. He took
his servant out into the field with a bow and arrow.
To the servant, it was just Jonathan clearing his mind
and practicing. He did not know David was resting in
(43:10):
the caves only a few yards away. Jonathan shot three
arrows into the distance where he knew David was hiding.
He turned to his servant and said, start running. You'll
find the arrows as I shoot them. So the boy ran,
unknowingly in David's direction. The boy was close to where
the arrows were, but Jonathan yelled.
Speaker 6 (43:30):
Keep running. The arrow's still ahead of you. Hurry, hurry,
do not wait. Even a moment.
Speaker 2 (43:36):
David heard the words of warning. His heart ached. David
looked over at the armor and sword given to him
by Jonathan. He armed himself, girded up his clothes, and
began to run. He fled into the wilderness, exiled and alone. However,
God was at work in David's heart. He would not
(43:57):
abandon his anointed one. Those whom the Lord chooses are
never truly left to fend for themselves.
Speaker 1 (44:06):
We all know this was bound to happen. The small
thread of self control Saul had was bound to snap. Unsurprisingly,
he commits himself to David's destruction. The surprising part of
this episode was that David refused to fight back. He
slew a giant way scarier than the king, so none
of us would be surprised if David somehow found a
(44:27):
way to defeat Saul in combat. But our hero refused
to retaliate against the king despite several attempts at his life.
This is going to be a long and somewhat annoying
theme in David's life. Sometimes he is honorable to a fault.
Jonathan warned David that his loyalty may be his undoing
one day. The giant slayer knows Jonathan might be right,
(44:50):
but he respects the office of king far too much
to overthrow it with violence. He knew that God put
Saul on that throne, and God would remove him as well.
David felt no need to rush the hand of God,
even if it meant his life would remain in jeopardy.
This is an important lesson for all of us to
learn from David. Many wrong paths are taken because we
(45:12):
think they are shortcuts, we can get restless and feel
pressure to rush God's will. Abraham and Sarah did this
when they weren't getting pregnant, and that is how Ishmael
was conceived. Little good comes from forcing God's promises through.
It takes a lot of peace and trust to let
events unfold the way David did. Waiting on God's timing
(45:33):
does not mean we do nothing. David, when sensing a threat,
is proactive and measured his actions. He does the right thing.
In this episode he shows the king grace all the
while insuring his own protection and leaning on those he
trusts most. David receives the most help from his close
(45:53):
friend Jonathan, The Prince of Israel, revealed where his loyalties
truly lie in this episode. When the pressure mounts and
the stakes were high, he came through for David. I
wish I could say the same about mcl She was
initially supportive of her husband and helped him escape, but
when she was faced with her father, she wavered and lied.
(46:15):
This is a theme in scripture, but particularly in the
story of David. Who we truly are is revealed when
circumstances are at their toughest Jonathan showed strength of his
devotion to David by standing up to his father. Mcal's
showed the weakness of her devotion to David by lying
to her father. When life gets difficult, lies are easy
(46:36):
shortcuts to make things easier on us. Once again, many
wrong paths are taken because we think they are shortcuts.
This episode shows us those who are willing to march
up the uncomfortable path of righteousness and those who would
rather take the easy way out. Saul, instead of facing
his own demons and insecurities, wants to end David's life. McAll,
(46:58):
instead of remaining loyal to her husband, gives David up.
Doing the right thing is rarely easy, but it's always
worth it. Lying, cheating, and taking the easy way out
may seem better in the short run, but always presents
us with more chaos. Brotherhood and loyalty are big themes
in this episode as well. David, thankful for his friends,
(47:20):
says people with unreliable friends meet early deaths, but there
are friends who stick closer than brothers. This life was
not taken from First Samuel, rather from Proverbs eighteen. It
was spoken by Solomon, David's son. Many years were added
to David's life because of his friendship with Jonathan, he
would have most certainly been wiped out by Saul without him.
(47:42):
Friendship is not just a luxury, it is a necessity.
People without loyal friends are doomed to wander through life
and fear they have nobody to watch their backs, give
them corrections, provide aid when needed, and celebrate their victories.
We would be wise to look at Jonathan and ask
ourselves if we are as lawyer and trustworthy as he
(48:03):
is to our friends. Let's talk about two particular events
that happen in this episode. They connect everything back to
the prelude. First, Samuel returns to the story, and not
a moment too late, he protects David from harm and
provides a safe haven from the wrath of Sault. God's
spirit hedges Samuel's property like a force field. When Abner
(48:26):
and his men come to kill David, they are compelled
to worship instead. God doesn't allow a single hair on
David's head to be touched. The same happens when Saul attacks.
The king comes with a sword ready, but instead falls
to his knees in praise. This seems like an odd
tactic for God to employ Why not shoot Saul down
(48:47):
with lightning or set his chariot on fire. The answer
is compelling. God is committed to thwarting Saul through mercy.
Romans twelve twenty one says, do not be overcome by evil,
but overcome evil with good. There will be several times
in the next dozen episodes when Saul should be utterly destroyed,
(49:08):
but instead shown mercy. God through David, is committing to
overcome the evil in Saul's heart with good. If David
is to take the throne, it will not be because
David defeated him in battle. All that shows is that
anyone can become king by slaying whoever is on the throne.
This is a surefire way to destroy a nation. God
(49:29):
will raise up David, but not before an intense testing.
This episode ends with David running away into exile. His
rise to prominence is halted, and the giant Slayer is
brought to his lowest point. Why would God allow this
to happen? Why would God allow David to wander in
the wilderness away from his calling? As it turns out,
(49:51):
God does this sort of thing all the time. In
our prelude, Jacob is forced in the exile because he
is afraid of his brother. For good reason, Joseph is
exiled by his brothers and taken to a foreign land.
Moses spent forty years in the wilderness away from his country.
Ben David is one of the many heroes that needed
to be exiled. God does some of his most remarkable
(50:13):
work when we are at our lowest points. In the
prelude to our next episode, we will hear a story
about another hero who spent time in the wilderness alone. He,
like David, had a great destiny. Our destinies are not
halted when we are put through intense trials. Rather, our
destinies are confirmed through the refining of our character. In
(50:35):
our next episode, David's character will indeed be tested. Our
strong a mighty hero will show weakness in ways we
haven't seen yet. We will question whether he is truly
fit to be a king. David's failure will give us
a sobering reminder that nobody but God is perfect. Join
us for episode nine, David the Madman, thanks again for listening.
(50:58):
For more inspiring stories, early prayers and wisdom to last
a lifetime, go to pray dot com, Share this podcast
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God's word. God bless
Hi, I'm doctor Tony Evans, your host for Heroes in
the Bible. If you've enjoyed this podcast so far, please
share it with your family and friends and help us
spread God's word. Welcome to the Epic Adventure of David,
a story of honor, battle, jealousy, darkness, friendship, love, scandal,
and murder. While most people know of David the myth,
(00:23):
few know about David the man. In this episode, the
meteoric rise of David is put to a halt. I
saw up until this point, David has had nothing but victories.
He is slaying giants, defeated armies, fallen in love, and
gained allies. But now our hero faces his toughest challenge yet.
His resilience and patience will be put through the gauntlet,
(00:46):
and he will be betrayed by more than one Ally,
the time has come for David to be put to
the ultimate test. This episode is the beginning of a
very long season in David's life, a time when he
isn't in the comfort of his father's home or the
favorite champion of the Palace. David is going to be
sent on the run and we will be left with
(01:08):
uncertainty on who he will become. This episode introduces us
to a new character, Abner. Although his time is brief
in this episode, we should pay attention to him. He
will be very important later on in the story. David
will also visit an old friend. I won't give away who,
though you will have to listen to find out. This
(01:31):
friend will remind David of his calling and give him
boldness for the fight ahead. Before all this transpires, we
will open up with a prelude, a story taken from
the days of old, before Israel was a nation or
the law was written into stone. Another chosen hero will
be forced to leave in fear of a loved one.
But what God does with him in exile is worth it.
(01:53):
God does glorious things in exile, as we will come
to see in later episodes. Let's learn more about God's
faithful In episode eight exiled.
Speaker 2 (02:09):
Prelude to Chapter eight, the heat of the day had
finally disappeared as the sun set over the mountains. From
the forests of Canaan, Esau emerged with a deer carried
on his shoulders. His broad and muscular frame marched home.
Esa dropped the deer, skimmed it, and prepared the meat
for his father. A fragrant stew boiled under the fire.
(02:32):
Esan smiled, pleased with the work of his hands. He
poured the stew into a bowl and walked into his
father's tent. Isaac was lying in bed, old, blind and
near death. Esau knelt beside his father and handed him
the bowl.
Speaker 3 (02:48):
My father, I have returned from the hunt. I have
prepared your favorite stew, take and eat, so that you
might bless me before you pass.
Speaker 2 (02:57):
Isaac propped himself up in his bed and reached for
his son's face. Esau leaned forward and let him place
his hand on his cheek. Confused, Isaac pulled away and said.
Speaker 4 (03:09):
Who is this that I am speaking to?
Speaker 3 (03:13):
I am your first Frin's son, Esau. I have returned
from my hunt so that you might bless me according
to my birthright.
Speaker 2 (03:19):
Isaac's old hand began to tremble. Esau reached to take it,
but his father pulled away in frustration.
Speaker 4 (03:26):
Ooh, who is it then that brought me food? Before?
Speaker 5 (03:32):
There was another who came in here, saying he was
my first born, Esau.
Speaker 4 (03:39):
It was to hear my gave the blessing he saw.
Speaker 2 (03:42):
Panicked, he shook his head and raised his voice.
Speaker 3 (03:46):
No, no, Father, I swear I am misa whoever came
before me was an impostor? Who wasn't me? It must
have been.
Speaker 2 (03:54):
He paused and looked around the tent. An empty bowl
was beside the bed, and a pile of gold fur
arrested at the entrance.
Speaker 6 (04:01):
Jacob, He whispered, it was Jacob, he tricked my father.
Speaker 2 (04:06):
Into Esau looked up at Isaac and took his hand.
Speaker 3 (04:10):
Please, Father, please bless me as well. Have you never
deserved any blessing for me? Please do not leave me
here alone.
Speaker 2 (04:17):
Sorrow, rage and anguish wound up in Esau's heart. His
brother had tricked him into giving up his birthright, and
now he had stolen what mattered most, his father's blessing.
Isaac was enraged at Jacob, yet could not recant his
blessing over him, and he would not undo what the
Lord had set in motion.
Speaker 4 (04:37):
I have made him lord over.
Speaker 2 (04:40):
You, Isaac said, I have.
Speaker 4 (04:43):
Blessed him as an inheritor of all God has given me,
and you will serve under him.
Speaker 2 (04:51):
Esau's face fell into his hands. A deep well of
sorrow raged within him.
Speaker 3 (04:57):
Is there any blessing you can give me? Father, am
I not worthy of anything.
Speaker 2 (05:01):
Isaac rested his hand on his son's head. He breathed
in deeply and recited ancient poetry. The words were a
poor consolation to Esau. They might as well have been
a complete rejection. Isaac spoke thus, saying.
Speaker 5 (05:16):
Behold, away from the richness of the earth you shall dwell,
and away from the dew of heaven on high you
shall live by your sword, and you shall serve your brother.
Speaker 4 (05:32):
But when you grow restless, you shall break his yoke
from your neck.
Speaker 2 (05:38):
Esau left his father and stood over the fire. His
large chest was huffing with anger. A dark part of
ESA's heart was awakened that day. A spirit of jealousy
and contempt overwhelmed him. When Isaac had breathed his last
and went to be with his father Abraham, Esa sighed
a deep breath and sad.
Speaker 3 (05:59):
The days of morning my father are approaching. After I mourn,
I will kill my brother Jacob.
Speaker 2 (06:06):
Jacob caught wind of this and fled out of his country.
The hero God had chosen was made an exile from
his own country, fleeing from his own family. Chapter eight Exiled.
Speaker 4 (06:22):
The unity of our nation is under attack.
Speaker 2 (06:25):
Saul yelled from the war room in his palace. Torchlight
flickered against Saul's body, casting a large shadow over the
coarse stone walls. His trusted servants and advisers stood around
the king, along with a few of the elders. A
single tapestry draped over the back wall. The firelight illuminated
its elegant design of the nation of Israel, all twelve
(06:49):
tribes represented in a single map. The king drew out
a dagger and tore the tapestry in two.
Speaker 4 (06:55):
Don't you see what he has done to their people?
They praise him as if he he is the lord himself.
We cannot have him dividing us in drawing the people
away from for me. If they did not trust me
over David, we will have a civil war on our hands.
He will revolt against us when the moment is right
(07:17):
for him.
Speaker 2 (07:18):
The elders and advisers mumbled amongst themselves. Some agreed, but
others were skeptical of whether the king was in his
right mind. Remaining in the back with his shoulder leaning
against the wall was Jonathan. He listened intently to his
father's ravings against David. They were the rants of a
paranoid madman. However, he was king, an absolute power to
(07:41):
execute David was his soft lailed his arms and swung
his dagger.
Speaker 4 (07:46):
We will make it look like an accident. The last
thing we're desire is for the people to turn against
me for killing him. Or perhaps we could frame the Philistines.
No doubt the people would believe they assassinated the giant slayer.
Speaker 2 (08:01):
Jonathan's heart beat swiftly as he listened to Saul plan
out his best friend's murder. He waited for a moment
to slip away to warn David. As Saul got caught
up in planning with his advisers, Jonathan slipped away into
the shadows. He ran swiftly through the palace gardens and
down the road where David and Mehal lived. The sky
(08:23):
was thick with marks of midnight. The stars spread over
the horizon like a steady moving tide. The cool evening
breeze slipped through the window of David's room, caressing his cheek.
He brought the blanket's end and rolled closer to me call.
He enjoyed the warm company of his bride. Never before
had he felt such a serene sense of belonging. He
(08:45):
belonged to God's chosen people, to the armies of Israel,
to the house of King Saul, and to his beloved wife.
It seemed as though nothing could steal away the bliss
David had rightfully earned. In the stillness of the cold night,
wrap in blankets, David sighed and thanked God for his
grace towards him. David closed his eyes and slipped into
(09:07):
a deep sleep. His weary and battle hardened bones were
growing heavy. As he sank into his bed, he dreamt
of green pastures and still waters. He dreamed of the
babbling brooks and baws of the sheep. All was peaceful
until a hand reached out from the darkness over his mouth.
David awoke in a panic and reached desperately for his dagger.
(09:30):
Just as he was about to strike, he saw the
moonlight illuminating Jonathan's face. He placed a finger over his
lips and gestured for him to join him outside. David
nodded and slipped quietly out of bed so ma Call
could remain asleep. The two men stepped outside into the cold.
David wrapped the royal robe Jonathan had given him around
(09:51):
his shoulders. Jonathan was clearly nervous he always stroked his
beard when he was nervous. David placed his hand on
his shoulder.
Speaker 4 (09:59):
What is this about, Jonathan, What is troubling you?
Speaker 2 (10:03):
Jonathan placed his hands on David's face.
Speaker 6 (10:06):
You are in danger, little brother. My father seeks to
take your life. It could be tonight, or it could
be next week, but his mind seems to be set
on killing you.
Speaker 2 (10:15):
David gave an impassive nod. I see, he said, solemnly.
Speaker 6 (10:20):
You do not seem too surprised by this.
Speaker 2 (10:22):
Jonathan inquired, is.
Speaker 6 (10:24):
There something you're not telling me?
Speaker 2 (10:25):
David crossed his arms, trying to keep himself warm under
the crisp evening air. A soft breeze made his hair
fall over his eyes as he looked down.
Speaker 4 (10:34):
Your father has tried to kill me already.
Speaker 2 (10:37):
David said.
Speaker 4 (10:38):
He attempted to pin me to the wall with his spear.
When he missed, he sent another one. I escaped before
he could throw a third.
Speaker 6 (10:47):
Why didn't you tell any of this to me?
Speaker 4 (10:49):
Because your father is a troubled soul, but more importantly,
he is my king, David said sternly. It is my
duty to give him mercy for any slights against me.
After all, it was not too long after that that
he gave me your sister's hand in marriage. Jonathan shook
his head.
Speaker 6 (11:09):
Your loyalty may be your undoing giant's lair.
Speaker 4 (11:12):
It may be yours as well, Brother David said, seriously,
you are taking a great risk by being here to
warn me. Tell me what should I do.
Speaker 6 (11:23):
Be on your guard in the morning, stay in a
secret place and hide yourself. Tomorrow I will go out
into the fields with my father. I will speak well
of you and test to see where his heart is.
Allow me to be your advocate.
Speaker 2 (11:35):
David smiled and hugged Jonathan. He held him tightly.
Speaker 4 (11:39):
People with unreliable friends meet early deaths, but there are
friends who stick closer than brothers.
Speaker 2 (11:47):
Jonathan patted David on the back.
Speaker 6 (11:49):
I will let you know if I hear anything from
my father. Stay safe and stay hidden for now.
Speaker 2 (11:55):
David went back into his home, being sure to keep
his dagger even closer. Jonathan slipped back across the garden.
Back home on the other side of the palace, Saul
sat awake near the fire. His mind wandered into unpleasant places,
like a ship lost at sea. His weary mind slipped
in and out of sleep until Eventually he passed out
(12:16):
on his throne. The next morning, Jonathan arose early to
meet his father in the farm lands of Gibea. Saul
took great care into ensuring the vibrancy of Israel's agriculture
and livestock. He needed his people well fed. Hungry citizens
made for fickle followers. He needed their loyalty. He craved it.
(12:39):
Jonathan walked the fields with his father. They spoke of
the kingdom, battle strategy, and their family. Despite all his flaws,
Jonathan loved his father. He admired his steadfast attention to
the safety of Israel. As the two of them spoke,
Jonathan was able to see small glimpses of why his
father was chosen to be king in the first place.
(13:01):
Lingering impressions of past humility made brief appearances. Saul was
not always the paranoid and unstable man that stood before him.
He was once a prince of promise and a beacon
of hope to the infant nation of Israel.
Speaker 6 (13:14):
Father, there is a matter I wish to speak.
Speaker 2 (13:18):
To you about, Jonathan said, shyly speak, Saul said, enjoying
the sunlight on his cheeks.
Speaker 6 (13:24):
Your anger against David seems irrational to me. What is
he done wrong?
Speaker 2 (13:30):
Saul paused his stride and looked down at his son.
It is not what he.
Speaker 4 (13:34):
Has done, Jonathan, but what he will do. The people
have given him glory and honor. It is only a
matter of time before they seek to give him the kingdom, Your.
Speaker 6 (13:46):
Kingdom, God's kingdom, Father, Jonathan responded.
Speaker 2 (13:51):
Saul scoffed and dismissed the correction with the wave of
his hand.
Speaker 6 (13:55):
Jonathan persisted, I beg you to not sin against your
servant day, but he has not sinned against you. His
deeds have brought you in this nation nothing but prosperity.
When you and I were faced with the option of
standing up to the giant, we wavered. Yet he stood
on our behalf. The Lord has clearly worked good through him.
(14:15):
Why would you seek to put that good to an
early end? You yourself rejoiced when he slew Goliath. Why
shed innocent blood against a faithful warrior, a trusted servant,
and your son in law.
Speaker 2 (14:27):
Saul looked down at the ground beneath his feet. Although
the ground was firm and easy to walk on, he
felt uneasy and off balance. Saul had not felt right
for a very long time. He felt his senses and
his mind dull with paranoia and contempt. He sighed and
looked at his son. He knew he was right. David
(14:48):
had truly done nothing to deserve such hatred. For a
brief moment, Saul could see clearly. He placed his hand
on his son's shoulder. You are a wise man, my son.
As the Lord lives, David shall not be harmed by
my hand. Saul smiled, then continued walking. Relieved, Jonathan found
(15:10):
David and told him the news. David was restored to
be in the presence of Saul once again. He attended
meetings for battle strategy. He sat with his family for
feasts and parties. He played music for him beside his throne.
All seemed well, and normalcy was restored until the Philistines
mounted yet another attack. Thunder roared from the heavens. A
(15:34):
storm of great force was blowing in from the north.
David stood with his men atop a hill, ready to
descend into the battlefield against the Philistines. The enemy horde
banged their swords against their shields, beckoning David to them.
The giant slayer looked up watching the heavens stir violently.
Rain was coming. It would not be a clean fight.
(15:56):
There was no time to waste. The longer they waited,
the less advantage they had. David raised his sword high
in the air and splashed it downward. His archers sent
a flurry of arrows towards the Philistines. They retaliated with
just as many. The skies crackled with wood and metal.
As the rains began to fall. David ran first towards
(16:17):
the enemy, with his men to his back. They all
followed with courageous vigor. The two armies met in the
middle of the battlefield. The thunder and rain drowned out
the cracking bone and tearing flashes. It was the most
gruesome battle David had ever seen. From every angle, another
one of his men fell to the Philistine. He swipes
(16:39):
through the enemy lines, leaving dozens of bodies to his wake.
Speaker 4 (16:42):
Press in, he yelled, do not lose heart.
Speaker 2 (16:46):
David's cries pierced through the white noise of wind and rain.
His men were emboldened by his courage. They struggled through
mud and filth, and slowly gaining the advantage over the Philistines.
David never let go of his sword. Every attack that
Philistines counted against him failed. The Lord was before him,
and his men knew that they were in the presence
(17:07):
of God's chosen Hera. The skies ceased their onslaught of
rain and lightning. All was still. For a moment. David
paused to look around him. He was on top of
a hill on the enemy's side of the battlefield. He
looked behind him. His men were standing, seeing that they
had killed every last Philistine that came up against them.
(17:30):
Nearly a hundred men lay dead at their feet. Through
all the struggle, they never lost hope. David drove his
sword into the mud and fell to his knees. He
looked up to the heavens. The sun was peeking out
through the darkened skies, and it seemed as though the
Lord was smiling down at them. David wept and the
(17:51):
soldier's cheer They rejoiced at David's bravery and leadership. Ward
of the victory reached the ears of Saul. As he
listened to the men swoon over the giant slayer's bravery,
the tormenting spirit returned and he forgot all about his
promise to Jonathan. He once again longed to see David
pin to the wall of the palace with his spear.
(18:15):
David's music filled the throne room. The melody was unfamiliar
to Saul. It had a different rising and falling than
David's typical songs of praise. This song was filled with
a rising hope that continued to build until the very
last moment. The joy expressed in the music was like
a burning coal upon Saul's brooding heart. He hated David's
(18:36):
connection to the Lord. He hated David's victories and his humility.
Everything David was, Saul hated. The light of David's countenance
made the darkness in Saul's heart ever more apparent. Saul
once again gripped his spirit tightly instood to his feet.
He yelled and hurled the spear at the shepherd. However,
(18:57):
David was prepared for another attack from Saul. He shifted
to his left, and the spear flew right past his
shoulder and pierced the cedar bean behind him. David stood
there facing the King. Saul's brows furrowed and nostrils flared.
Hatred had spilled over, and David saw in the King
the same eyes as Goliath, it was no longer safe
(19:21):
to be in his presence. As Saul began to mount
another attack, David escaped through the back door and ran
into the night. David burst through the door of his home.
McAll startled from her bed.
Speaker 7 (19:34):
What happened?
Speaker 2 (19:35):
She asked, worriedly.
Speaker 4 (19:37):
This is the second time your father has attempted to kill.
Speaker 2 (19:40):
Me, David explained, Before.
Speaker 4 (19:43):
I thought it was an outburst of anger, so I
forgave him. However, now I know he wants me dead.
Speaker 2 (19:51):
Mecall was in shock. Her eyes widened, and she frantically
ran to the window and looked out into the darkness.
Small torchlights be seen nearly fifty yards away. May Call
knew her father well. If he wanted David dead and
was unable to do so in private, he would have
his servants do it for him.
Speaker 7 (20:12):
My father's men are lurking in.
Speaker 2 (20:13):
The shadows, she said, in a hushed tone.
Speaker 7 (20:16):
It is not safe for you to be here. They
will wait for you to come out in the morning
and slit your throat.
Speaker 2 (20:22):
David pulled his hair back tight and groaned.
Speaker 4 (20:25):
What options are there? I cannot fight the king's men.
They are my countrymen.
Speaker 2 (20:30):
May call grabbed her husband's face with both her hands.
Speaker 7 (20:34):
Listen to me. If you do not escape tonight, they
will kill you. You must leave.
Speaker 2 (20:42):
David shook his head and held may Call's hands in
his I will not leave you.
Speaker 4 (20:47):
I will not leave Jonathan or my men. Perhaps I
can reason with Saul, he is my father in law.
Perhaps the Lord will change his heart.
Speaker 2 (20:58):
May Call released David's grasp and began packing up food
in a sack.
Speaker 7 (21:03):
You are a good man, David, but woefully innocent when
it comes to my father. He has not listened to
the Lord in years. You must go, Jonathan and I
will be okay, and your men will always be loyal
to you. But none of us want to see you dead.
Speaker 2 (21:20):
She grabbed David's face and brought it close to hers.
She kissed him passionately and smiled. The two of them
fastened a rope together, and David lowered himself out the window,
escaping into the hills outside the city. May Call took
pillows and hid them under blankets to look like David.
She put goats fur on the top to look like
(21:40):
his hair, then crawled into bed and waited up all night.
She knew the servants would come in the morning to
kill David. It was only a matter of time. Early
that morning, may Call her to knocking at the door.
Who is it, she asked ignorantly, although she knew it
was her father's men come to kill. At the door
(22:01):
was Abner, the commander of Saul's army and most trusted
servant and adviser. Saul had sent him personally to seated
David's death. He trusted no one more than Abner.
Speaker 4 (22:13):
We come from your father, my lady, he said, we
are here to speak with your husband. Could you get him.
Speaker 2 (22:19):
Maycall's heart began to pound in her chest. She heroically
saved her husband, but she was now growing more nervous
for her own safety. Panicked, may Call cleared her throat
and said, he is ill.
Speaker 7 (22:33):
You will have to come by tomorrow. I am afraid
he is in bed and cannot get up.
Speaker 4 (22:37):
We have strict orders from the King Mecall.
Speaker 2 (22:40):
Abner replied sternly, we will visit him in the room.
The men made their way in without Maykall's permission, slowly
opening the door into their room. They drew their swords,
unwilling to take their chances with such a formidable opponent
like David. Abner took his sword and raised it into
the air. He drove it down into the bed, being
(23:03):
sure to put all his weight into it. His men
joined in stabbing and slashing down to the figure in
the bed. However, it did not take long for feathers
and fur to begin pouring out from under the blankets.
Abner threw off the blankets, revealing the pillows and goat skins.
He turned back violently with his sword drawn, and may Call,
(23:23):
where is he? Abner yelled? Where is David? Maycall fell
down onto the floor, crying. Abner rolled his eyes back
and sheathed his sword. Go get the king, he ordered
his men.
Speaker 4 (23:36):
The last thing I want is to harm his daughter
tried to get the truth.
Speaker 2 (23:40):
Saul's men beckoned him to David and Maycall's home. He
stormed in with thundering anger. His large frame and deep
voice shook the house, and may Call quivered in fear
from her father. He had never heard her, but he
was clearly not in his right mind. He had attempted
to pin David to the wall twice with his spear.
(24:00):
There was no clear limit to what he would do.
Saul bent down to his daughter, who was crying on
the floor next to the bed. His anger could be
seen through his teeth. Daughter, he said, holding back his outrage.
Where is he? May Call had a decision to make.
Would she honor her husband or pander to her father?
(24:23):
She weighed her options. It was very likely that David
would remain on the run for a very long while.
May Call was used to a life of luxury and privilege.
As much as she loved David, she loved her comforts more.
Speaker 4 (24:39):
She looked up, Oh, father.
Speaker 2 (24:42):
She said, wrapping her arms around his neck.
Speaker 7 (24:45):
Thank the Lord you have come. David threatened my life.
He told me that he would kill me if I
did not help him escape.
Speaker 2 (24:53):
Tears ran down her face, However, they were tears of
shame and guilt for what she was doing. So all
held his daughter, appalled at her words. Even he who
hated David, could not believe he would do such a thing.
Speaker 4 (25:07):
I promise you, my daughter, I will find him and
destroy him. He will not hurt you again.
Speaker 2 (25:14):
Saul stood up and gestured for Abner.
Speaker 4 (25:16):
Send out scouts. Have them search for David, but tell
no one we want his life. I cannot have people
rising up to protect him.
Speaker 2 (25:25):
Abner nodded and he sent men throughout the city to
search for David. David ran all day until he arrived
at Naoth in Ramah. The sun was setting, creating a
crimson glow over the horizon. On any other day, it
would have been worth sitting on the hill to write
songs about the glory of God, but this day was different.
(25:48):
David needed protection, so he sought wisdom from the only
man he truly trusted. He walked up a dirt pathway
leading to a house sitting on a hill overlooking the city.
David felt to distinct shift in the air as he
approached the home. He looked to his left, seeing a
stone altar covered in blood. Smoke rose from an opening
(26:09):
in the roof, and flickering light came to the windows.
David approached the large wooden door and knocked. He stepped
back and waited. The door opened, and the sweet smell
of incense and cooked meat released into the air. Near David.
The young shepherd immediately bowed, I am sorry for disturbing you.
I had nowhere else to go. The figure standing before
(26:32):
him limped its way outside and leaned down to him.
David looked up to see the old and gray face
of Samuel smiling. He had not seen him since he
was anointed in Bethlehem. His presence was warm and comforting.
A few tears streamed down David's cheeks. In such a
short period of time, David had gone from a forgotten
(26:54):
shepherd boy to a famed warrior. Seeing Samuel made him
feel like a child again. Come, Samuel's raspy and dusty voice.
Speaker 4 (27:03):
Said, we shall worship the Lord together, and he shall
deliver you from the vengeance of Saul.
Speaker 2 (27:09):
David took Samuel by the arm, and the two of
them walked into his home. Samuel's students were sitting by
the fire and enjoying a meal. David sat among them
and told them all of what had happened. He spoke
into the night, sharing all the things the Lord had
done since he defeated Goliath. He told tales of Jonathan
may Call and the armies of Israel. He shared about
(27:33):
the disturbed nature of Saul and his attempts to kill him.
In everything, Samuel and his students were silent. They allowed
David to pour out his emotions and soul. They allowed
him to cry, laugh and pray. Then, after sharing a
good meal, they sent David to bed to rest. They
knew that Saul and his men would be there soon.
(27:54):
They had to pray to the Lord for protection and provision.
If David truly was the anointed chosen King, no doubt
God would provide.
Speaker 4 (28:04):
One of our men came back with reports of David.
Speaker 2 (28:07):
See Rama, Abner said to the king. Saul leaned back
on his throne, brooding over a cup of wine. His
eyes darted over to Abner. He snarled and took a sip.
Speaker 4 (28:19):
No doubt he has gone to see Samuel. Both of
them are probably conspiring against me as we speak. Go
and take David by any means necessary.
Speaker 2 (28:32):
Abner bowed, and he sent men to retrieve David from
Nahath and Ramah. The next day, Saul's men walked up
the dirt path with their swords drawn. They could see
the smoke rising from the home. Outside the home, Samuel
and his students were prophesying and worshiping the Lord. Samuel
(28:52):
stood in front of them with his hands raised. They
declared the goodness and justice of God and proclaimed his
mighty acts on the hill. As the men drew closer
with their swords drawn, they felt the shift in the air.
Their hearts began to flutter in their chests, and the
spirit of God fell down upon them. Overwhelmed with the
(29:13):
sense of God's presence, they too began to prophesy and worship.
They had come to take David violently, but instead they
were met with a fortified wall of praise and worship.
God had protected his chosen king, not with weapons of warfare,
but with his spirit moving in the hearts of wicked men.
(29:37):
The men returned empty handed, but beaming with the joy
of the Lord. Their spiritual glow vexed Saul. His anger
was kindled against his men when he heard that they
had worshiped God instead of obeying him. Saul stood up
from his throne and rode to Ramah himself, with a
dozen men behind him. He came heavily armed and prepared
(29:59):
to fight. He knew that David was a mighty warrior,
and somehow Samuel and his prophets had cast a spell
on his men. Saul charged up the hill leading up
to Samuel's home. As he crossed the threshold, Saul could
feel the presence of God like the embrace of an
old friend from years ago. Saul ceased his charge and paused.
(30:21):
He looked down at his hands and his feet. Not
sure what to do, he took a step further. Seeing
Samuel's students praying only a few yards away, he approached them,
and the tug of God's spirit became homing. Saul fell
to his hands and knees, his heart ached from the
burst of benevolent power rushing through him like a mighty river.
(30:44):
It was almost too much for him to bear. Saul
looked up to the heavens with tears rushing down his face.
He knew that the Lord was only revealing himself to
protect David. He even knew in his heart that he
would not change his ways a less. He was grateful,
grateful that he could experience the spirit of God once again,
(31:06):
even for just a brief moment. Saul tore his royal
robes and began to worship and prophesy with the others.
After this, the spirit of the Lord compelled him to depart.
David watched out the window at the king. Leaving down
the hill. He turned to Samuel, who was sitting by
the fire. Once again, Samuel beckoned him over and had
(31:29):
him sit beside him. David spoke first, saying.
Speaker 4 (31:33):
Thank you for all you have done, however, I put
you and your students in danger by being here. I
shall leave to night.
Speaker 2 (31:42):
Samuel smiled and tilted his head towards the fire. The
coals had been tended too carefully by Samuel. They beat
like tiny little hearts in the flame. A few of
the coals popped. He looked at David sitting beside him.
His eyes were attentive to Samuel's every move.
Speaker 4 (32:00):
Are you able to keep the coals burning?
Speaker 2 (32:02):
Samuel asked. His voice was deep and sonorous. Even in
his old age, his voice maintained its resonant authority. It
was as if the words of God flowed out of
his mouth from a deep cavern. David looked at the fire.
I am not sure, David said, honestly.
Speaker 4 (32:22):
I suppose the flames are both started and sustained by
the Lord.
Speaker 2 (32:28):
Samuel said nothing. He touched David's head, as he did
the first day they met. He prayed with him, and
then sent him on his way. David disappeared into the night,
back to Gabeah. He needed to speak with Jonathan. The
dual nature of Saul had left him confused. Was he
able to mend his relationship with Saul? Would he be
(32:51):
able to reconcile, or was David forced to live on
the run forever? He needed such answers. Jonathan sat on
a large stone wall, looking down at the fields of
grain outside his home. The gentle evening wind made the
grain move like the seas. The sound of crickets chirping
harmonized with the whistles of the breeze coming in from
(33:13):
the east. It was a place David and he would
often meet. They would speak of war, the wonders of God,
and their dreams for the future. Jonathan would often chuckle
to David, comparing everything to herding sheep. As the wind
picked up spead across the fields, Jonathan could have sworn
he heard a voice say his name, Jonathan. The voice whispered, Jonathan,
(33:37):
it said again. The young prince looked down the hill
sloping into the fields. David was there, resting his back
against a stone. Jonathan hopped off the wall and embraced David.
I thought you had left forever, Jonathan exclaimed.
Speaker 6 (33:52):
My father has been mad in search of you.
Speaker 4 (33:54):
What was my crime, Jonathan? What is my guilt that
your father would seek my life? Have I not served
him faithfully? Have I not honored him?
Speaker 2 (34:04):
David was frantic and frustrated. He was weary from hiding
and becoming flustered from the sleepless nights. Jonathan reassured David
and put his arm round him.
Speaker 6 (34:14):
My father vowed to me that he would not kill you.
I do not believe he.
Speaker 2 (34:18):
Will, Jonathan said, in ignorance.
Speaker 6 (34:21):
My father does nothing without first disclosing it to me.
If he had planned on killing you, he would tell me.
Surely he is looking for you because of something else.
Speaker 2 (34:28):
David shook his head. He paused and looked out of
the fields. The breeze and sound of moving grass reminded
him of simpler times with his sheep. David, still looking forward, said.
Speaker 4 (34:41):
Your father knows we are closer than brothers. He would
not tell you of his plans to kill me again.
He probably suspects you are the one who warned me
in the first place that he would kill me.
Speaker 6 (34:53):
My loyalty is to you before my father. David, we
have a bond and an unbreakable covenant. Tell me what
you need and I'll do whatever you.
Speaker 2 (35:03):
Want, Jonathan said. David looked over at his friend. For
so long he had been alone, even in the large
family of Jesse David was always the outcast, the runt.
His heart was full of gladness for his friend Jonathan.
He feared that in the midst of the chaos, he
would be abandoned and left. David smiled and looked up
(35:27):
at the moon. He pointed to it and said.
Speaker 4 (35:30):
Tomorrow is the new moon. Many people will be gathering
to celebrate. Your father will probably be expecting me to
feast with him and the elders. I am his son
in law, and to not attend would be a great
insult to him. I will hide instead, and you will
tell him I am in Bethlehem making a sacrifice with
(35:53):
my clan. It will, no doubt enrage him and kindle
his anger towards me even greater. However, if your father
respects my decision to be with my kinsman, then we
will know he means me no harm. What if he is.
Speaker 6 (36:07):
Outraged, Jonathan asked, what will that tell us?
Speaker 4 (36:11):
If your father is angry, it will show his heart.
Speaker 2 (36:15):
David said. He paused again. Tears began to well up
in David's eyes.
Speaker 4 (36:22):
You should have seen the hatred in his eyes, Jonathan,
David whispered, you should have seen the disdain he had
for me. He looked at me like I was an abomination.
I might as well have been a philistine to him.
Speaker 2 (36:37):
David drew his sword and handed it to Jonathan.
Speaker 4 (36:40):
You and I have made a covenant with one another.
You have sworn to protect me. However, if you see
any guilt in me, please drive this sword into my chest.
Speaker 2 (36:54):
Never, Jonathan yelled, pushing away David's sword.
Speaker 6 (36:57):
Get up, Come with me, Jonathan.
Speaker 2 (37:00):
David up, and the two of them walked down to
the fields. They stood there, listening to the humming of
the wind and the chirping of crickets. Jonathan pointed to
the caves nestled in the hills beyond the field.
Speaker 6 (37:12):
You hide out in the caves beyond this field. I'll
send word of my father's temperament.
Speaker 2 (37:17):
Thank you, brother, Jonathan breathed in deeply inside.
Speaker 6 (37:21):
Remember what I told you before when I gave you
my armor and.
Speaker 2 (37:24):
Robe, he asked. His tone was serious.
Speaker 6 (37:27):
I told you you would certainly become king. I still
believe it, and I am certain my father believes it.
That's why he hates you. The wind ceased its whistling,
and all was still for a moment. Jonathan choked on
his words. He was holding back tears. Sometimes I linger
in the halls of the palace and listen to you
(37:50):
play music to my father. You have a deep well
of love for the Lord, David. Your music speaks to
your relationship with God. He will show you favor wherever
you go. He will exalt you as king and destroy
all those who make you their enemy. All those who
seek to destroy you now will be eliminated, and God
will pave the way for your kingdom. Please, I beg
(38:14):
you show love to my house. When God removes your enemies,
be kind to my wife and children.
Speaker 2 (38:22):
David said nothing in response. He wanted to humbly reject
Jonathan's prediction that he would be made king. However, David
knew that it was what he was destined for. He
had come to realize the reason Samuel anointed him in
the pastures so long ago. He was chosen to be
the next king of Israel, and David swore to show
(38:43):
Jonathan and his entire household love and favor. Jonathan spoke again, saying, in.
Speaker 6 (38:50):
The next three days, I will go out into the
field for target practice where you are hiding. I will
shoot three arrows towards you and send my servant to
go and retrieve them. And if you hear me yell
the the arrows are on that side, it means the
coast is clear for you to return. If you hear
me yell, go further run, then that means Saul is
still seeking your life and you should flee.
Speaker 8 (39:12):
You are a kind man, Jonathan, David said, I will
wait here.
Speaker 2 (39:17):
The two embraced, and Jonathan left to return to his family.
David walked into the dark and rough openings in the hills.
He set his belongings down and leaned his head against
the cave. He sighed, and the echoes of his breath
traveled deep into the caverns. The young shepherd closed his
eyes and began singing a song to the Lord.
Speaker 8 (39:39):
Oh Lord, my God, and you I take refuge, Save
me from my pursuers. Deliver me, o Lord, my God.
If I have done this, if this is my evil doing,
let the enemy pursue my soul and devour.
Speaker 4 (39:56):
It like the lions. May they lay my glory in
the dust Selah.
Speaker 2 (40:04):
As David sang, his heart was comforted. The Lord met
him in his anguish. There was nowhere he could run
where the love and passion of God could not follow.
He drifted to sleep, wondering about the future of his life,
his family, and his kingdom. The moon festival had begun
(40:26):
and the elders gathered to celebrate with Saul and his family.
Saul wore his robe of elegant colors, flashing his wealth
before the nobles of Israel. He paraded his family around
like the jewels on his crown. However, when David's place
at the king's table was empty, Saul took notice. Where
(40:46):
is the son of Jesse? He asked Jonathan.
Speaker 4 (40:49):
First he threatens my daughter's life, and now he has
the gall to shirk his royal duties.
Speaker 2 (40:56):
Jonathan peered across the table at his father. He did
his best to read him, to look into his thoughts
and motives.
Speaker 6 (41:04):
David asked me if he could go back to Bethlehem
to make a sacrifice with his clan. His father and
brothers demanded it, so I allowed it.
Speaker 2 (41:11):
Saal drove his knife into the table.
Speaker 4 (41:14):
You foolish and useless son.
Speaker 2 (41:18):
He yelled. Everyone at the table tightened and looked over
at Jonathan. He was motionless and oddly unriled. Do you
think I'm a fool?
Speaker 4 (41:27):
I know you want him to be king in your place.
Speaker 2 (41:29):
Saul took his plate of food and threw it against
the wall. He picked up his spear and pointed it
at his son.
Speaker 4 (41:36):
You shame yourself and your mother. David is planning to
rip this kingdom away from me.
Speaker 2 (41:42):
Jonathan's face was impassive. Now he was witnessing his father's
true colors. He stood up slowly and looked deeply into
his father's eyes.
Speaker 6 (41:53):
He is the lord who has taken your kingdom away, father,
not David.
Speaker 2 (41:58):
Saul took his spear and hurled it at Jonathan, as
he once did with David. He missed, and the spear
was driven into the wall behind him. The room was silent.
Saul was huffing in anger. He turned to Abner and
his guards and yelled.
Speaker 4 (42:14):
Go and find the boy. Do not rest until he
has brought to me. I will have his head on
a silver platter.
Speaker 2 (42:22):
You will not, Jonathan yelled violently, His blood boiled with anger.
Saul had crossed the line, and Jonathan would not allow
him to continue in his madness without a fight. I will,
Saul said, I will have his life, and you will
not stop me. You are too weak to kill me
(42:47):
with those words. Saul stormed off to gather his men.
The hunt for David was about to begin. Jonathan arose
early before the sun rise the next morning. He took
his servant out into the field with a bow and arrow.
To the servant, it was just Jonathan clearing his mind
and practicing. He did not know David was resting in
(43:10):
the caves only a few yards away. Jonathan shot three
arrows into the distance where he knew David was hiding.
He turned to his servant and said, start running. You'll
find the arrows as I shoot them. So the boy ran,
unknowingly in David's direction. The boy was close to where
the arrows were, but Jonathan yelled.
Speaker 6 (43:30):
Keep running. The arrow's still ahead of you. Hurry, hurry,
do not wait. Even a moment.
Speaker 2 (43:36):
David heard the words of warning. His heart ached. David
looked over at the armor and sword given to him
by Jonathan. He armed himself, girded up his clothes, and
began to run. He fled into the wilderness, exiled and alone. However,
God was at work in David's heart. He would not
(43:57):
abandon his anointed one. Those whom the Lord chooses are
never truly left to fend for themselves.
Speaker 1 (44:06):
We all know this was bound to happen. The small
thread of self control Saul had was bound to snap. Unsurprisingly,
he commits himself to David's destruction. The surprising part of
this episode was that David refused to fight back. He
slew a giant way scarier than the king, so none
of us would be surprised if David somehow found a
(44:27):
way to defeat Saul in combat. But our hero refused
to retaliate against the king despite several attempts at his life.
This is going to be a long and somewhat annoying
theme in David's life. Sometimes he is honorable to a fault.
Jonathan warned David that his loyalty may be his undoing
one day. The giant slayer knows Jonathan might be right,
(44:50):
but he respects the office of king far too much
to overthrow it with violence. He knew that God put
Saul on that throne, and God would remove him as well.
David felt no need to rush the hand of God,
even if it meant his life would remain in jeopardy.
This is an important lesson for all of us to
learn from David. Many wrong paths are taken because we
(45:12):
think they are shortcuts, we can get restless and feel
pressure to rush God's will. Abraham and Sarah did this
when they weren't getting pregnant, and that is how Ishmael
was conceived. Little good comes from forcing God's promises through.
It takes a lot of peace and trust to let
events unfold the way David did. Waiting on God's timing
(45:33):
does not mean we do nothing. David, when sensing a threat,
is proactive and measured his actions. He does the right thing.
In this episode he shows the king grace all the
while insuring his own protection and leaning on those he
trusts most. David receives the most help from his close
(45:53):
friend Jonathan, The Prince of Israel, revealed where his loyalties
truly lie in this episode. When the pressure mounts and
the stakes were high, he came through for David. I
wish I could say the same about mcl She was
initially supportive of her husband and helped him escape, but
when she was faced with her father, she wavered and lied.
(46:15):
This is a theme in scripture, but particularly in the
story of David. Who we truly are is revealed when
circumstances are at their toughest Jonathan showed strength of his
devotion to David by standing up to his father. Mcal's
showed the weakness of her devotion to David by lying
to her father. When life gets difficult, lies are easy
(46:36):
shortcuts to make things easier on us. Once again, many
wrong paths are taken because we think they are shortcuts.
This episode shows us those who are willing to march
up the uncomfortable path of righteousness and those who would
rather take the easy way out. Saul, instead of facing
his own demons and insecurities, wants to end David's life. McAll,
(46:58):
instead of remaining loyal to her husband, gives David up.
Doing the right thing is rarely easy, but it's always
worth it. Lying, cheating, and taking the easy way out
may seem better in the short run, but always presents
us with more chaos. Brotherhood and loyalty are big themes
in this episode as well. David, thankful for his friends,
(47:20):
says people with unreliable friends meet early deaths, but there
are friends who stick closer than brothers. This life was
not taken from First Samuel, rather from Proverbs eighteen. It
was spoken by Solomon, David's son. Many years were added
to David's life because of his friendship with Jonathan, he
would have most certainly been wiped out by Saul without him.
(47:42):
Friendship is not just a luxury, it is a necessity.
People without loyal friends are doomed to wander through life
and fear they have nobody to watch their backs, give
them corrections, provide aid when needed, and celebrate their victories.
We would be wise to look at Jonathan and ask
ourselves if we are as lawyer and trustworthy as he
(48:03):
is to our friends. Let's talk about two particular events
that happen in this episode. They connect everything back to
the prelude. First, Samuel returns to the story, and not
a moment too late, he protects David from harm and
provides a safe haven from the wrath of Sault. God's
spirit hedges Samuel's property like a force field. When Abner
(48:26):
and his men come to kill David, they are compelled
to worship instead. God doesn't allow a single hair on
David's head to be touched. The same happens when Saul attacks.
The king comes with a sword ready, but instead falls
to his knees in praise. This seems like an odd
tactic for God to employ Why not shoot Saul down
(48:47):
with lightning or set his chariot on fire. The answer
is compelling. God is committed to thwarting Saul through mercy.
Romans twelve twenty one says, do not be overcome by evil,
but overcome evil with good. There will be several times
in the next dozen episodes when Saul should be utterly destroyed,
(49:08):
but instead shown mercy. God through David, is committing to
overcome the evil in Saul's heart with good. If David
is to take the throne, it will not be because
David defeated him in battle. All that shows is that
anyone can become king by slaying whoever is on the throne.
This is a surefire way to destroy a nation. God
(49:29):
will raise up David, but not before an intense testing.
This episode ends with David running away into exile. His
rise to prominence is halted, and the giant Slayer is
brought to his lowest point. Why would God allow this
to happen? Why would God allow David to wander in
the wilderness away from his calling? As it turns out,
(49:51):
God does this sort of thing all the time. In
our prelude, Jacob is forced in the exile because he
is afraid of his brother. For good reason, Joseph is
exiled by his brothers and taken to a foreign land.
Moses spent forty years in the wilderness away from his country.
Ben David is one of the many heroes that needed
to be exiled. God does some of his most remarkable
(50:13):
work when we are at our lowest points. In the
prelude to our next episode, we will hear a story
about another hero who spent time in the wilderness alone. He,
like David, had a great destiny. Our destinies are not
halted when we are put through intense trials. Rather, our
destinies are confirmed through the refining of our character. In
(50:35):
our next episode, David's character will indeed be tested. Our
strong a mighty hero will show weakness in ways we
haven't seen yet. We will question whether he is truly
fit to be a king. David's failure will give us
a sobering reminder that nobody but God is perfect. Join
us for episode nine, David the Madman, thanks again for listening.
(50:58):
For more inspiring stories, early prayers and wisdom to last
a lifetime, go to pray dot com, Share this podcast
with a family member or friend and help us spread
God's word. God bless
Host
Jack Graham
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