July 4, 2025 • 40 mins
Chapter 12 of Heroes in the Bible: David with Dr. Tony Evans is inspired by 1 Samuel 24.
Slit His Throat - In the dark caves of Engedi, David stands over the sleeping King Saul with a blade in his hand. The throne of Israel is only a swipe of a blade away.
Today's opening prayer is inspired by 2 Corinthians 5:7, For we walk by faith, not by sight.
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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. I'm excited for you to
join me in this series. Please be sure to follow
the podcast on Apple or Spotify so that you get
the newest episodes right as they come out. Welcome to
the Epic Adventure of David, a story of honor, battle, jealousy, darkness, friendship, love, scandal,
(00:21):
and murder. While most people know of David the Myth,
few know about David the man. This story is the
tale of two souls. The prelude to this episode features
Saul of Tasha's before he becomes Paul the Apostle, as
well as King Saul of the tribe of Benjamin. But
that's not the only reason it's the tale of two Sauls.
(00:41):
We see two different King Sauls in this episode. One
is the paranoid Tyrit we have come to loathe, and
the other is a sober minded father finally coming to
his senses. This episode highlights Sauls inner turmoil and the
power forgiveness has over one's mind. This episode also features
David and a difficult choice set before him. He could
(01:04):
put it into his misery and kill the king, or
prolong his suffering and show him mercy. The answer would
be clear to any other man kill Saul, but not David.
He does not see the world like other tyrants and
men of conquests. Our hero is not a hammer who
only sees nails to be struck. We must not forget.
David is both fierce and tender hearted. He is ruthless
(01:27):
in battle, but sensitive to the heart of God. He
does not tread the easy path of revenge as you
and I would. He takes the high road, even at
his own expense. Pay close attention to David's words in
this episode. He clings to his conviction even when pressure
to do otherwise. We can learn a lot from his
integrity and commitment to his values. His mercy transformed Saul,
(01:50):
even for a brief moment in time. Our prelude will
feature another Sault, who, by the mercy of Jesus Christ,
went through his own transformation. Ready for a heartfelt episode
with her foreboding title slit his throat.
Speaker 2 (02:08):
Prelude to Chapter twelve, Imprisonment and Death to the Church
of Jesus. That was the obsession of Saul's heart. As
a pharisee, Saul was filled with zealous rage against the
followers of Jesus. The disciples had become an affront to
his way of life and a threat to the religious
leader's power. The temple judge put pen to parchments giving
(02:30):
him complete authority to drag any man, woman, or child
who proclaimed the name of Jesus into the city streets
and end them. The letters were his license to kill.
He took those letters and left the temple, held bent
on rounding up Christians like lambs to the slaughter. He
mounted his horse and traveled to Damascus. Obsessive passion droves
(02:51):
all forward. He rode through the night, anxious to destroy
the work of the Gospel. Saul rode with dynamic fury,
and the dim lights of Damascus were coming into view.
Then out of the night, a burst of light broke forth,
sending Saul onto his back. He was blinded by the light,
unable to see in front of him. He was caught
(03:12):
up in a whirlwind of holiness. From the radiant light,
a voice spoke forth Saul. Saul, The voice said, why
are you persecuting me? The Pharisee was frantic and afraid.
He could not see anything. His voice trembled in panic.
Speaker 3 (03:30):
Who are you?
Speaker 4 (03:31):
He is I Jesus, the one whom you have persecuted.
Why are you kicking against the goads? Why do you
deny who I have called you to be?
Speaker 2 (03:44):
Saul was on his knees, taking in the majesty before him.
It was an experience unlike anything he had ever seen
or heard. The men who were behind Saul could hear
the voice, but they did not see the brilliance of
Jesus as Saul did. Then, as as the light came,
it vanished. Saul opened his eyes to nothing but darkness.
(04:05):
He was completely blind. He was undone and confused. The
men who were traveling with him picked him up and
carried him to Damascus. There he lay in bed for
three days, unable to answer the questions reeling in his mind.
It was maddening. He hated Jesus, he hated the message
of Jesus, yet he could not deny what he had
(04:26):
seen and heard. Saul sat in a room contemplating all
the ways he had failed to understand what God was doing.
When he heard the door creep open, Saul turned and panicked.
Who is there? He asked, Please.
Speaker 5 (04:40):
Do not hurt me.
Speaker 3 (04:42):
I am not here to hurt you.
Speaker 4 (04:44):
The voice said, I am Nonias, and Jesus sent me
to heal you.
Speaker 2 (04:49):
Saul pushed away and shook his head.
Speaker 6 (04:52):
After all I have done, do I deserve to be healed?
Speaker 4 (04:56):
It is not a matter of deserving, my friend.
Speaker 2 (04:58):
And anyas said. He stretched out his hands and laid
them on Saul's eyes. He prayed for him, and slowly
Saul's sight was restored to him. It was as if
scales were peeling away from Saul's eyes, and he could
see the truth of what God was truly doing. He
understood who Jesus was. Saul was eventually baptized and would
(05:20):
go on to be a force for good. God would
mold and shape him into a leader to the Gentiles,
preaching the Gospel to many nations and peoples. Saul would
eventually be named Paul and go on to be one
of the greatest leaders the Church of Jesus has ever seen.
Chapter twelve. Slit his throat. There would be no rest
(05:43):
until his head was resting on the end of his spear.
King Saul refused to end his search for David, even
if it meant abandoning all reason. He and his army
had searched tirelessly for days upheaving every town and city
they entered. Saul's maddened search for David left the nation
vulnerable to attack, so Jonathan was left to keep watch
(06:04):
over the kingdom while Saul sought out the object of
his obsession. The men questioned their king's sanity as he
paced at night. Tormented by paranoid conspiracies, King Saul had
given in to a dark insanity that he could not
get out of. The king and his army marched against
the city of Kayla in hopes to find him, but
the lord had provided warning to David and his men.
(06:26):
They fled for the wilderness of Zif. However, Saul had
a vast amount of power and resources. He sent his
scouts to search out the entire land for signs of
David and his army. All signs pointed towards Zif, so
Saul marched forward, ransacking every village along the way and
questioning them about his whereabouts. The paranoid king refused to
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end his search. Like a dog fixated on a bone,
Saul remained focused on finding David. At the end of
the week, Saul and his army were remaining in the
city of Ziff. By the elders and nobles. The elders
were intimidated by Saul's presence. They could see in his
eyes the potential for a great amount of evil. He
(07:09):
was a king they did not desire to cross, so
they gave David up. As Saul dined with his commanders
and the elders, the meal was modest by Saul's standards,
but the best Sip had to offer on such short notice.
One of them leaned over to him and said.
Speaker 7 (07:24):
The recought glimpses of the traitor you're looking for, my king.
Speaker 2 (07:28):
The entire dining hall fell silent. Saul stopped eating mid
bite and grabbed the garment of the elder. He pulled
him in violently and brought him close. Tell me now,
the elder cleared his throat and laughed nervously.
Speaker 7 (07:42):
We have it on strong authority that he and his
men are hiding in the caves beyond the woods, near
the hill of Hakilah. They are deep and wide caves,
large enough to host an army of his size.
Speaker 2 (07:55):
Where are these caves, Saul asked.
Speaker 7 (07:58):
Shortly south o Jesh, the man said, all you have
to do is be ready. We will serve him up
to you. We can find his exact location.
Speaker 2 (08:09):
Saul scowl quickly turned into a beaming smile. He laughed
and slammed his fist against the table. The entire thing
shook and cups of wine spilled onto the floor.
Speaker 3 (08:19):
Blessed are you, he shouted. Ah, Finally someone has compassion
on this ould and weary king.
Speaker 2 (08:28):
The man in attendants laughed. Saul released the man from
his grip and patted him on the back.
Speaker 3 (08:33):
Please go and find that exact location. See where he
is hiding out, Be careful. He is crafty and escapes
like the demon into the night. Look for the lurking places.
No doubt he will be hiding like a rat in
a hole.
Speaker 2 (08:55):
The man did as he was told. The elders sent
out some of their herders as spies and the wildern
They combed the forests and caves or signs of David.
Then in the distance they could see the flickering lights
of their camp. They finally knew exactly where David was hiding.
They returned immediately to tell Saul of what they found.
(09:17):
David sat outside the caves admiring the sunset splashes of
red and orange painted the skies. David loved the chaotic
beauty of the sky. Its color seemed to have no
order or direction, yet every splash of red or orange
to the cloud seemed intentional, like the brushstrokes of an artist.
(09:37):
God's magnificence was put on display before him, and he
could not help but awe at his handiwork.
Speaker 3 (09:43):
The heavens declare the glory of God. David sang to himself,
The firmament shows his handiwork.
Speaker 2 (09:51):
He smiled and soaked in every last moment of the sunset.
When the sun was out of view beyond the horizon,
David stepped back into the caves. His men were preparing
their beds for the night. Another night of sleeping in
a cold, jagged cave. David shook his head. He hoped
for better. His men deserved it after their heroic deeds
(10:12):
in Kaylah. There were several fires lit within the cave,
each hosting ten to fifteen men around it. David went
to each camp, encouraging his men not to lose heart.
He reassured them that God would be faithful and good
to those who loved him. He made his way back
to the mouth of the cave, where Beniya was standing
watch any signs of trouble, David asked. Benya shrugged and
(10:35):
shook his head.
Speaker 5 (10:37):
I have only seen shepherds and cattle herders.
Speaker 2 (10:39):
Passing by, he said with a grin.
Speaker 5 (10:42):
So far, it does not seem like Saul knows where
we are. But we could never be too careful.
Speaker 8 (10:47):
Jashubiem and a few other men will be taking the
first shift to ensure we are protected.
Speaker 2 (10:52):
God has a great calling on your life, Baniya, David said,
with a smile, thank you for protecting us. Benaya blushed
and shook off the compliment. However, David meant what he said.
Banaia had the heart of a guardian, and David took
note of it. He left the mouth of the cave
and retreated back. The fires made the entire inside warm.
(11:13):
David tucked himself in towards the end of the cave.
He closed his eyes, trying to remember the image of
that breath taking sunset. The night drew on and the
only sounds were of crackling fire and snoring. David was
sound asleep, dreaming of his wife back home. A shadow
was cast on David as a hooded figure stood above him.
(11:35):
The heat of the fire was blocked for a moment,
and it was enough to make David awake. He drew
his sword and pointed it upward.
Speaker 3 (11:42):
Who goes there?
Speaker 2 (11:43):
He said, in a panic. David swiped and jumped to
his feet. The man stepped back behind the fire and
raised his hands in surrender.
Speaker 5 (11:51):
Now is that a way to treat a friend, the
man said.
Speaker 2 (11:56):
David knew that voice immediately, he did not need to
con firm suspicions. He dropped his sword and hugged the
man with all his might.
Speaker 3 (12:04):
Oh, oh, how I've missed you.
Speaker 2 (12:06):
Brother, he said, with a cracking voice.
Speaker 3 (12:09):
I am glad you are here.
Speaker 2 (12:10):
Jonathan Jonathan laughed and removed his hood.
Speaker 8 (12:14):
I could not risk your men seeing me and killing
me on sight. I am the son of a king.
Speaker 2 (12:18):
After all, he said. The two of them sat down.
David drew his dirty hair back. Jonathan had not seen
David since he left in exile. David's hair was much longer,
and his beard was messy and tangled.
Speaker 5 (12:32):
You have changed quite a bit, David.
Speaker 2 (12:34):
Jonathan said, lightheartedly.
Speaker 5 (12:36):
The wilderness suits you.
Speaker 2 (12:38):
David chuckled, insighed. He gestured to the men sleeping.
Speaker 3 (12:41):
We have gotten used to it out here, he said,
But what we lack in riches, we make up for
in heart.
Speaker 5 (12:49):
As has always been your way.
Speaker 2 (12:50):
Jonathan replied with a smile. The two of them talked
for a while. They spoke of may call the Palace
and all that had happened since David left. The light
hearted conversation with his friend was just what David needed. However,
he knew Jonathan had come with a purpose.
Speaker 3 (13:07):
Why have you come here, Jonathan.
Speaker 2 (13:08):
David asked solemnly. Jonathan sighed and grinned.
Speaker 5 (13:12):
My father will not stop his search.
Speaker 2 (13:14):
He said, while shaking his head.
Speaker 5 (13:16):
He is obsessed with finding you.
Speaker 3 (13:18):
David.
Speaker 8 (13:18):
It is a madness I have never seen before. His
eyes look like they belonged to someone else.
Speaker 5 (13:23):
He's not the Saul. I once knew that you once knew.
Speaker 2 (13:26):
David nodded in agreement. He too had not seen Saul
since his last attempt on his life. He prayed for
him often. Jonathan looked up at David and said.
Speaker 5 (13:36):
You have no need to fear him. He will not
find you. He may try, but the Lord will always
protect you. He always has.
Speaker 2 (13:44):
Jonathan paused for a moment and chuckled to himself.
Speaker 8 (13:48):
Even with your ragged beard and dusty clothes, you look
more like a king than he ever did. David, you
came from nothing, yet the Lord chose you to be
the king of Israel.
Speaker 5 (13:59):
You will be king, and I shall be there next
to you, fighting by your side for the heart of
our country.
Speaker 2 (14:05):
David nodded and wiped a few tears away from his eyes.
It was good to hear Jonathan's encouraging words again. They
refreshed his soul like water in a dry desert.
Speaker 3 (14:16):
Thank you, my brother, you are the kindest man I
have ever known.
Speaker 2 (14:22):
The two of them reaffirmed their covenant with one another,
being reminded of their commitment to each other. David was
strengthened by Jonathan's words of encouragement. He needed them now
more than ever. Jonathan stood to his feet and put
his hood back on be on.
Speaker 8 (14:38):
Guard, David, he warned, my father's men look around every corner.
I have no doubt he has discovered your whereabouts already.
I would move before it's too late.
Speaker 2 (14:47):
The two embraced, and Jonathan slipped back into the shadows
to return to the palace. David rushed to the mouth
of the cave, where Benia and the others were on watch.
They peered into the distance, seeing a faint trail of
tors which is coming from the north. It's him, David said.
The men responded immediately and woke the others. Every man
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was ready in a matter of minutes, and the entire
company of six hundred men retreated from the caves to
the other side of the mountain. The sun was rising
and they were losing the covering of night. Shama returned
from scouting the perimeter. Saul's army had created three companies
to surround the area. They were closing in on them.
David began to panic as the men climbed up the
(15:30):
mountain to get to the other side. They scaled the
rocky surface with gravel and stones falling behind them.
Speaker 3 (15:36):
They're coming, Shama yelled. They are nearly here.
Speaker 2 (15:40):
David yelled for the men to quicken their pace up
the mountain on all fours. They climbed up, then slid
down the edge of the mountain, throwing themselves over. They
tumbled down, ungracefully, frantically trying to find a place to hide.
David looked down to see Saul and his men emerging
from the forest at the base of the hill, and
looked down to see the king. He was paralyzed by
(16:03):
fear and unable to move. Just as Saul was about
to look up the mountain and discover David, josh Obim
reached out from behind David and pulled him over the edge.
The two of them tumbled to the ground, then were
pulled into the small cave underneath the base. On the
other end, Saul and his army made their way up
the mountain, quickly sensing that David and his men were close.
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Saul scaled up first, looking for any sign of his prey.
He paused at the top of the mountain, looking out
over the other side. He knew they were close. He
could almost hear the sound of their breathing down below.
Saul took a few steps forward and leaned over the edge,
looking down to see if he could see anything. Little
did he know, David and his men were right under
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his nose, only a few yards away. Underneath. Saul gestured
for his men to follow him down the mountain. Then,
calling out from the bottom of the mountain was one
of Saul's.
Speaker 3 (16:57):
Servants, My King, my king, argent news.
Speaker 2 (17:01):
Saul looked down, frustrated.
Speaker 3 (17:03):
What is it? The Philistines have made an attack on Gibbea.
They know you, and all your army have gone.
Speaker 2 (17:09):
Saul's eyes widened, A sinking feeling came over him, and
he retreated down the hill. Immediately, he mounted his horse
and rode off with all his men. In an instant,
over a thousand of David's enemies were gone. The men
emerged from their hiding place and laughed. They cheered and
hugged one another, thankful that God had stoled them, even
(17:30):
if it was just for a few more days. David
led the men to the wilderness of Angetti. The lush vegetation,
surrounded by rivers and waterfalls, was a pleasant escape from
the harsh desert landscape of Man. The men made a
refuge for themselves and the caves beside the river, enjoying fish,
fresh fruit, and roots from the forests. The caves were
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deeper than the others they had resided in, and the
men made a camp for themselves a few hundred yards deep.
If someone were to find the caves, they would never
suspect anyone was living in them. The stronghold was deep
and winding. However, sunlight made its way through cracks in
the ceiling, illuminating the way for those deep inside. Enough
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time passed for Saul to fend off the Philistine attack
and recruit more than three thousand men to march in
search of David. He led them across the wilderness of
Man and over the mountain they had almost captured David.
They wandered for days in search of David to no avail.
Whatever trail they had was lost with time, and Saul
grew more and more discouraged. He fell deeper and deeper
(18:37):
into his own self loathing. He hated himself for what
he had become. Yet he could not help his paranoia.
It gripped him like a beast to the throat of
its prey. At night, he would lay awake, wrestling with
the voices of doubts swirling around in his mind. He
was a tormented soul, and he could feel his mind
slipping into oblivion. Saul's army camped outside the forest of Bengetti.
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The vibrant green surrounding them was pleasant and peaceful. Saul
could feel a pull towards the river for refreshment. He
needed to seek time alone to rest and compose himself.
Speaker 3 (19:15):
I am going to the river to bathe, do not
follow me. I shall be back tonight or tomorrow, the.
Speaker 2 (19:24):
King said to his servants. So he ventured off into
the forest, breathing in the fresh air and listening to
the gentle babbling of streams near by, as if he
was in a Feverish days, Saul wandered up the river
towards the mouth of a large cave. The sun was
peeking in through the trees, splashing rays of light down
on the water below. Saul removed his clothes and waded
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into the river. He washed himself and rested on the shore.
Even with the cool earth below him and the gentle
sunlight above him, his mind was still fogged with paranoia
and hatred. It consumed him even when he did not
want it. Saul dressed himself and walked into the mouth
of the cave. He rested his back against the wall
(20:07):
of the cave and rested his eyes. He allowed his
mind to drift and wander. He imagined himself capturing David
and dragging him into the streets by his beard. He
imagined his spear going straight through his heart. Even in
the midst of a peaceful and serene atmosphere, Saul's mind
still clung to violence. The king fell asleep there and
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the large cave protected him from the evening breeze. He
is here, David, whispered a Liezar. David turned his head
to see his faithful three behind him. King Saul is
asleep at the mouth of the cave. Josh Obeim confirmed.
Speaker 6 (20:46):
Didn't the Lord tell you he would give the enemy
into your hands? This is what he was talking about.
God has given you Saul on a silver platter, and
you can do with him what you please.
Speaker 2 (20:57):
David said nothing. He simply stared the dark curves of
the cave leading to the entrance. Shamah placed his hand
on his shoulder and gestured forward.
Speaker 7 (21:07):
You can be King David.
Speaker 3 (21:09):
All you have to do is kill him before he
kills you.
Speaker 2 (21:12):
Slit his throat, David, Eliezar said, put.
Speaker 5 (21:15):
An end to this madness once and for all.
Speaker 2 (21:18):
He placed a dagger in David's hands. He gripped it
tight and walked forward toward the mouth of the cave.
Speaker 3 (21:24):
Kill Saul.
Speaker 2 (21:25):
David thought to himself, is it really that sung? David
approached the mouth of the cave. Saul was leaning against
the wall, sound asleep. The light of the late afternoon
exposed his aging face. He looked older than David remembered him.
It was as if all these months of hatred and
jealousy had aged him more rapidly. David stood over the
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king with the blade in his hands. He was an
easy target. It would be nothing for David to cut
his throat and be done with the madness. He stood
over Saul in the darkness of the cave for a
few moments. The echoes of the streams beside the cave
bounced off the cave walls. Sweat beat down David's brow
as he knelt down and raised the dagger to Saul's throat.
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Only one slash, that is all will take the throne
of Israel. The armies of God, and the affection of
the people could all be his. All he had to
do was pressed the blade against the king's throat. Quietly,
David lowered his blade. He grabbed a part of his
(22:32):
robe and cut off a small sliver of its edge.
He held the small piece of garment in his hand
and stood to his feet. His hands were shaking as
he looked down at it. Then David leapt quietly and
did not disturb Saul any further. David retreated back deeper
into the cave and stopped. He looked down to the
(22:53):
piece of Saul's robe in his hands. He gripped it
tightly and leaned his head against the cave and wept.
He silently sobbed, pounding his fist against his chest. His
men walked up to him.
Speaker 5 (23:07):
Did you do it?
Speaker 2 (23:08):
They asked?
Speaker 5 (23:09):
Is the king dead?
Speaker 2 (23:10):
David held up the piece of Saul's robe.
Speaker 3 (23:12):
I shall not put my hand against God's anointed. I
should not have laid even a finger on him. He
is the king of God's people. He does not deserve
such a slight against him.
Speaker 6 (23:23):
A slight against him, joshall be masked. You did not
kill him, You didn't even harm him. Look, you turned
off a piece of his robe. Does this deserve such tears?
Speaker 2 (23:34):
David? The men were angry. Saul was the reason they
were outcasts and on the run. Saul had hunted them
and treated them like animals, Yet David refused to kill him.
It made them angry. He is God's anointed, David replied, aggressively.
Speaker 3 (23:50):
My tears are for the heart within me that would
even consider vengeance. Vengeance is the Lord's I will not
take his life so that I may be elevated.
Speaker 2 (24:02):
When the men saw David's passion, they ceased their protests.
David raised a finger to them and said.
Speaker 3 (24:09):
I order you to stay away from him. Do not
disturb him or lay a hand on him.
Speaker 2 (24:15):
The men restrained themselves and allowed the king to rest
until he awoke. Later that day. David leaned against the
cave walls, looking out at Saul from the shadows. His
mind erased with a thousand different reasons to kill him,
yet his heart broke for the king. He longed to
be in his courts again, playing melodies of hope for
(24:36):
his weary soul. King Saul was like a father to him,
and it pained him that he even raised a dagger
close to him. David wanted Saul rise from his slumber
and stretch. The king stood up and began walking outside.
He knelt down to splash water on his face. As
he was kneeling over, David stepped out from the shadows.
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My lord King, he shouted. Saul jolted up and drew
his sword. You, he yelled with a scowl. Saul shifted
his feet and prepared himself to fight. David looked into
Saul's eyes. They glared at him with pure and boiling hatred.
It was not the gaze of a man questioning his
(25:20):
own heart. Saul had determined to kill David, yet even
still he could not bring himself to fight. David slowly
drew his sword from his back and raised it up.
Saul gnashed his teeth, bracing himself for an attack. David
did not advance. He took his sword and threw it
on to the ground in front of Saul.
Speaker 3 (25:41):
I will not fight you, King Saul.
Speaker 2 (25:44):
He said.
Speaker 9 (25:45):
His voice was trembling, and why should I trust you?
Saul asked, why should you trust me? David replied. He
fell to his knees and stretched out his arms.
Speaker 3 (25:57):
Who has whispered lies into your ears? Who has told
you that I seek to do you harm?
Speaker 2 (26:04):
David took out the ripped piece of Saul's cloak and
showed it to him.
Speaker 3 (26:08):
Look and see the torn part of your garment. To day,
the Lord delivered you into my hand. In that cave.
Some of my men urged me to kill you, Yet
I restrained myself. I spared you. I showed you a
kindness you would not have shown me.
Speaker 2 (26:27):
Saul could not believe his eyes. He had obsessed over
a false image of David in his mind for so long,
he found it hard to believe he could spare him.
Speaker 3 (26:39):
Why spare me when I have been hunting you for
all this time.
Speaker 2 (26:42):
Saul asked suspiciously.
Speaker 3 (26:44):
Why because I will not stretch out my hand against
the Lord's anointed. I've considered you like a father. Neither
rebellion or evil lies within my heart against you. I
have done nothing to warrant your hatred, Yet you hunt
me like an animal.
Speaker 2 (27:04):
Saul shook his head, his tormented soul stirred like stormy waters.
He found it hard to judge for himself what was
real and what was not. David continued his questioning in
hopes to wind back Saul's heart.
Speaker 3 (27:18):
I held the blade inches from your throat, but did
not take your life. As long as I live, I
will not raise a hand against you. As the proverb
of the ancients says, wickedness proceeds from the wicked. Look
at me, Saul, am I a wicked man? Who have
(27:42):
you spent months pursuing a dead dog a flea? Let
God be the judge between you and I.
Speaker 2 (27:51):
David then lowered his face to the ground and pressed
his nose against the dirt. He waited in silence for
Saul to respond, either with a word or with the
swing of his sword. When Saul watched David bow, something
changed in his heart. The fog that had filled his
mind for so long began to clear, like the sun
(28:16):
breaking away the morning clouds. Clarity of thought was restored
to him. It was as if scales were peeling away
from Saul's eyes, and he could see the truth of
what God was truly doing. For a brief moment, Saul
was able to see clearly. He saw before him not
an enemy, but a faithful son and a devoted servant
(28:40):
of God. He looked down at the humility of David.
It was a humility he never had, but God desired.
Tears began to stream down saisfies, and his shoulders began
to tremble. He dropped his sword, and the dam of
his soul burst open violently. For the first time in months,
(29:02):
Saul was no longer blind to what God was doing.
Speaker 3 (29:06):
Is that you, my son, David?
Speaker 2 (29:10):
David looked up Saul's dark and callous gaze was replaced
with vulnerability and weakness. The king fell to his knees
and wept with his face in his hands.
Speaker 3 (29:21):
You are a more righteous man than I him, for
you have rewarded all my evil with good. You have
shown this day why God has chosen you to be
king over me.
Speaker 2 (29:36):
As the words came out of Sal's mouth, David knew
that the Lord had indeed called him to be king.
Speaker 3 (29:42):
Whatever comes will come, David said, However, at this present
moment you are my king. I will not harm you.
Saul stood to his feet and wiped his eyes. It
is clear that Israel shall be yours. This is a
I ask that you will not cut off my descendants
(30:03):
after me. Please do not destroy the name.
Speaker 2 (30:06):
Of my father. A quiet resolve came over David. Now
that Saul had acknowledged David's calling, he felt the freedom
to truly carry himself like a king. You have my word,
David said. Saul stepped forward to David.
Speaker 3 (30:22):
Return with me to the palace. David, return to my
daughter and to your men. We may find a way
to have peace.
Speaker 2 (30:31):
However, David took a step back, not allowing Saul to
move any further. He truly believed Saul meant what he said. However,
he had seen Saul's mind shift and move like the
tide in his storm. He did not trust him.
Speaker 3 (30:45):
I will remain here, my king. If called upon to
fight for the safety of my country, I will respond. However,
I believe there is work to be done between you
and the Lord before I return.
Speaker 2 (31:00):
All looked disappointed. I see, he said, then I shall
be going. The two nodded at one another. David bowed
his head and sent the king on his way. Saul
made his way out of the forest, and David retreated
back into the caves. His men were waiting for him eagerly.
(31:20):
What did the king say, joshall be masked.
Speaker 3 (31:24):
He offered for me to return with him to the
palace and live in peace.
Speaker 2 (31:29):
David said, plainly, is that good news? Benyah asked perhaps.
Speaker 3 (31:34):
David replied, however, there is still much for the King
to wrestle with. I fear his contempt for me may return.
We must be on God. The men agreed and fortified
the stronghold. David walked with his head held higher. He
knew deep down that he was now being groomed by
(31:57):
the Lord to be a king.
Speaker 1 (32:02):
We almost got to see the end of King Saul.
David was so close. What kept him from following through
with it? Was it cowardice? Weakness? Did he chicken out
at the last minute. We know enough about David by
now to know he is no coward or weekly. David
is the bravest man alive, and that is precisely why
he spared Saul's life. Much had to be taken place
(32:25):
before David and Saul could meet each other again face
to face, and it all began with a visit from
an old friend. In this episode, the dynamic duo of
David and Jonathan makes another appearance. Jonathan comes at the
perfect time, first to warn the Giant Slayers of his
father's plans, second to encourage his soul and given straight.
(32:47):
The way Jonathan refreshes David in this episode brings a
smile to my face. We all need people like Jonathan
in our lives, don't we. We need people to remind
us of who we are, especially when life is uncertain
and unsteady. The Young Prince reminded our hero that his
identity was secured in the heavens, despite whatever circumstances took place.
(33:09):
Friends like Jonathan secure our minds when life knocks us
off balance. We need Jonathan's in our lives to anchor
us in our callings, in our trials. We may stray
with the rising and falling tide. Friends, real friends, keep
our souls tied to who we really are. Jonathan les
(33:30):
and David is in powered and not a moment too soon.
Saul is on the move and bloodthirsty. The army of
outcast is forced once again to pick up and leave.
The king nearly captures him, but luckily they are able
to evade him. The perspective shifts back and forth between
David and Saul, and we are giving more looks into
(33:51):
the fragile psyche of the first King of Israel. He
is consumed with irrational rage against David, but he is
also filled with self loathing and guilt. Here's a small
glimpse into his inner dialogue from the episode. He fell
deeper and deeper into his own self loathing. He hated
himself for what he had become, Yet he could not
(34:13):
help his paranoia. It gripped him like a beast to
the throat of its prey. At night, he would lay awake,
wrestling with the voices of doubts swirling around his mind.
He was a tormented soul and he could feel his
mind slipping into oblivion. Paranoia and rage are dragging Saul
into a pit of despair, and he is helpless to
(34:35):
help himself. If you don't feel a little bit sad
for Saul, then you are attuned to the heart of
the biblical authors. We are supposed to pity Saul, at
least a bit. This episode is a reminder that not
every villain is worthy of our disdain. Stories about knights
fighting dragons sit better with us because the enemies aren't human.
(34:56):
We don't ever feel sorry for the dragon that's slain
or the troll that's killed, but we do feel bad
for the descending sanity of Saul. He is not a
dragon to be slain. He's a man, a king, a
tortured soul that was once filled with the passion of God.
Not everybody understands this, but David does. Saul is vulnerable
(35:18):
and ripe for the taking. David's closest companions earnestly beg
him to end his life, and by doing so, in
their misery, David stands over sleeping Saul with the blade
in his hand. Instead of taking his life, he takes
a piece of his cloak. Why couldn't David do it?
Saul had caused so much pain and suffering, so why
(35:39):
not in all of the heartache. Wouldn't the entire nation
be better off as Saul were dead and David were king? Perhaps,
but there was something greater at work in this story.
Like many stories in scripture, the real important events are
taking place within the character. David was staring at the
man who was as to be like him. Saul was
(36:02):
supposed to be the warrior, king and hero of Israel.
Saul was supposed to lead his men with passion and
worship his God with righteousness. But Saul let small compromises
of his convictions tally up and eventually found himself enslaved
to his pride and self indulgence. This scene with David
so close shows us that the veil between us and
(36:24):
our enemies is paper thin. David is only a few
choices away from becoming like Saul, so in a way,
killing Saul would be like killing his own virtue. David
retreats silently back into the cave and brings the torn
piece of fabric back to his companions. They are understandably
upset that David refused to kill him. If we were
(36:47):
in their positions, we might think that the giant Slayer
had a moment of weakness here, perhaps he lost his
nerve or didn't have the carriage to swipe the blade.
We know enough about David now to know it is
not cowardice that drives him. David is the most fierce
and capable warrior in all of is real and perhaps
the world. He is courageous, bold, fearless in the face
(37:10):
of danger, so it is not weakness that compels him,
but meekness. Meekness is different from weakness. Those who are
weak are incapable of harming anyone, so they can't claim
moral virtue when they refuse to fight. They can't fight,
so their decision not to fight isn't noble, it's self preservation. However,
those who can fight, or perhaps are the best at fighting,
(37:33):
like David, prove their strength when they put their blades away.
David knows it would be easier to fight and when,
but instead chooses the more difficult path of peace. Meekness
is having the capacity to do harm, but instead doing good.
David releases solved, but does not let him get away
(37:53):
with ignorance. He needs to know that David spared his life.
The two meet face to face for the first time
since its exile, and David reminds Saul that he could
have harmed him, but chose not to. The shepherd makes
a case to the King, imploring him to see the
error of his ways. I have done nothing to warrant
(38:14):
your hatred, yet you hunt me like an animal. David says.
The very fact that David could have killed Saul in
his sleep but chose not to, is proof that he
is not the enemy. All of Saul's hatred for David
was a product of delusion and paranoia. This leads us
to an important point to be taken from Saul's sad story.
(38:37):
Contempt comes from within. The hatred we often experience toward
others comes from within our own hearts. First we feel
hatred in our hearts, then we look for someone to hate.
That is the order, not the other way around. This
leads us to the final scene and call back to
our prelude. The mercy David showed Saul was enough to
(39:00):
momentarily melt his pride and sober his mind. Like scales
pulling away from his eyes, Saul sees David clearly. He
recognizes him as king and bows to him. Mercy opens
up our eyes. That is what happened to Saul of
Tarsus on the road to Damascus. When he experienced the
mercy of Jesus, his blind eyes were finally open. This
(39:24):
happens to Saul, and like the sun's rays shining through
a few storm clouds, he has a moment of clarity.
Mercy can do wonderful things to a man. Unfortunately for David,
Saul's moment of clarity is short lived. David is noble
enough to forgive Saul, but not dumb enough to trust him.
He knows that Saul can change back at any moment,
(39:47):
so he remains in the wilderness. He promises to always
be a deliverer for Israel. When they need him, he
will come. They will need him. The hero of God
will rise up to defend his flock, and Saul will
eventually meet his end. In our next episode, David carries
himself with a newfound confidence and meets an interesting woman.
(40:09):
He carries himself more like a king, and the small
shepherd boy we have come to know and love seems
to be further in the distance. Is David maturing or
is he slipping? These are questions that will be answered
in our next episode. Abigail, thanks again for listening. For
more inspiring stories, daily prayers and wisdom to last the lifetime,
(40:30):
go to pray dot com. And to expand your heroes
in the Bible journey, download the Heroes of the Faith
devotional at Tony Evans dot org. Forward slash Heroes. Follow
the podcast on Apple or Spotify to get the newest
episodes right as they come out, and always be inspired
by the Bible.
Hi, I'm doctor Tony Evans. I'm excited for you to
join me in this series. Please be sure to follow
the podcast on Apple or Spotify so that you get
the newest episodes right as they come out. Welcome to
the Epic Adventure of David, a story of honor, battle, jealousy, darkness, friendship, love, scandal,
(00:21):
and murder. While most people know of David the Myth,
few know about David the man. This story is the
tale of two souls. The prelude to this episode features
Saul of Tasha's before he becomes Paul the Apostle, as
well as King Saul of the tribe of Benjamin. But
that's not the only reason it's the tale of two Sauls.
(00:41):
We see two different King Sauls in this episode. One
is the paranoid Tyrit we have come to loathe, and
the other is a sober minded father finally coming to
his senses. This episode highlights Sauls inner turmoil and the
power forgiveness has over one's mind. This episode also features
David and a difficult choice set before him. He could
(01:04):
put it into his misery and kill the king, or
prolong his suffering and show him mercy. The answer would
be clear to any other man kill Saul, but not David.
He does not see the world like other tyrants and
men of conquests. Our hero is not a hammer who
only sees nails to be struck. We must not forget.
David is both fierce and tender hearted. He is ruthless
(01:27):
in battle, but sensitive to the heart of God. He
does not tread the easy path of revenge as you
and I would. He takes the high road, even at
his own expense. Pay close attention to David's words in
this episode. He clings to his conviction even when pressure
to do otherwise. We can learn a lot from his
integrity and commitment to his values. His mercy transformed Saul,
(01:50):
even for a brief moment in time. Our prelude will
feature another Sault, who, by the mercy of Jesus Christ,
went through his own transformation. Ready for a heartfelt episode
with her foreboding title slit his throat.
Speaker 2 (02:08):
Prelude to Chapter twelve, Imprisonment and Death to the Church
of Jesus. That was the obsession of Saul's heart. As
a pharisee, Saul was filled with zealous rage against the
followers of Jesus. The disciples had become an affront to
his way of life and a threat to the religious
leader's power. The temple judge put pen to parchments giving
(02:30):
him complete authority to drag any man, woman, or child
who proclaimed the name of Jesus into the city streets
and end them. The letters were his license to kill.
He took those letters and left the temple, held bent
on rounding up Christians like lambs to the slaughter. He
mounted his horse and traveled to Damascus. Obsessive passion droves
(02:51):
all forward. He rode through the night, anxious to destroy
the work of the Gospel. Saul rode with dynamic fury,
and the dim lights of Damascus were coming into view.
Then out of the night, a burst of light broke forth,
sending Saul onto his back. He was blinded by the light,
unable to see in front of him. He was caught
(03:12):
up in a whirlwind of holiness. From the radiant light,
a voice spoke forth Saul. Saul, The voice said, why
are you persecuting me? The Pharisee was frantic and afraid.
He could not see anything. His voice trembled in panic.
Speaker 3 (03:30):
Who are you?
Speaker 4 (03:31):
He is I Jesus, the one whom you have persecuted.
Why are you kicking against the goads? Why do you
deny who I have called you to be?
Speaker 2 (03:44):
Saul was on his knees, taking in the majesty before him.
It was an experience unlike anything he had ever seen
or heard. The men who were behind Saul could hear
the voice, but they did not see the brilliance of
Jesus as Saul did. Then, as as the light came,
it vanished. Saul opened his eyes to nothing but darkness.
(04:05):
He was completely blind. He was undone and confused. The
men who were traveling with him picked him up and
carried him to Damascus. There he lay in bed for
three days, unable to answer the questions reeling in his mind.
It was maddening. He hated Jesus, he hated the message
of Jesus, yet he could not deny what he had
(04:26):
seen and heard. Saul sat in a room contemplating all
the ways he had failed to understand what God was doing.
When he heard the door creep open, Saul turned and panicked.
Who is there? He asked, Please.
Speaker 5 (04:40):
Do not hurt me.
Speaker 3 (04:42):
I am not here to hurt you.
Speaker 4 (04:44):
The voice said, I am Nonias, and Jesus sent me
to heal you.
Speaker 2 (04:49):
Saul pushed away and shook his head.
Speaker 6 (04:52):
After all I have done, do I deserve to be healed?
Speaker 4 (04:56):
It is not a matter of deserving, my friend.
Speaker 2 (04:58):
And anyas said. He stretched out his hands and laid
them on Saul's eyes. He prayed for him, and slowly
Saul's sight was restored to him. It was as if
scales were peeling away from Saul's eyes, and he could
see the truth of what God was truly doing. He
understood who Jesus was. Saul was eventually baptized and would
(05:20):
go on to be a force for good. God would
mold and shape him into a leader to the Gentiles,
preaching the Gospel to many nations and peoples. Saul would
eventually be named Paul and go on to be one
of the greatest leaders the Church of Jesus has ever seen.
Chapter twelve. Slit his throat. There would be no rest
(05:43):
until his head was resting on the end of his spear.
King Saul refused to end his search for David, even
if it meant abandoning all reason. He and his army
had searched tirelessly for days upheaving every town and city
they entered. Saul's maddened search for David left the nation
vulnerable to attack, so Jonathan was left to keep watch
(06:04):
over the kingdom while Saul sought out the object of
his obsession. The men questioned their king's sanity as he
paced at night. Tormented by paranoid conspiracies, King Saul had
given in to a dark insanity that he could not
get out of. The king and his army marched against
the city of Kayla in hopes to find him, but
the lord had provided warning to David and his men.
(06:26):
They fled for the wilderness of Zif. However, Saul had
a vast amount of power and resources. He sent his
scouts to search out the entire land for signs of
David and his army. All signs pointed towards Zif, so
Saul marched forward, ransacking every village along the way and
questioning them about his whereabouts. The paranoid king refused to
(06:48):
end his search. Like a dog fixated on a bone,
Saul remained focused on finding David. At the end of
the week, Saul and his army were remaining in the
city of Ziff. By the elders and nobles. The elders
were intimidated by Saul's presence. They could see in his
eyes the potential for a great amount of evil. He
(07:09):
was a king they did not desire to cross, so
they gave David up. As Saul dined with his commanders
and the elders, the meal was modest by Saul's standards,
but the best Sip had to offer on such short notice.
One of them leaned over to him and said.
Speaker 7 (07:24):
The recought glimpses of the traitor you're looking for, my king.
Speaker 2 (07:28):
The entire dining hall fell silent. Saul stopped eating mid
bite and grabbed the garment of the elder. He pulled
him in violently and brought him close. Tell me now,
the elder cleared his throat and laughed nervously.
Speaker 7 (07:42):
We have it on strong authority that he and his
men are hiding in the caves beyond the woods, near
the hill of Hakilah. They are deep and wide caves,
large enough to host an army of his size.
Speaker 2 (07:55):
Where are these caves, Saul asked.
Speaker 7 (07:58):
Shortly south o Jesh, the man said, all you have
to do is be ready. We will serve him up
to you. We can find his exact location.
Speaker 2 (08:09):
Saul scowl quickly turned into a beaming smile. He laughed
and slammed his fist against the table. The entire thing
shook and cups of wine spilled onto the floor.
Speaker 3 (08:19):
Blessed are you, he shouted. Ah, Finally someone has compassion
on this ould and weary king.
Speaker 2 (08:28):
The man in attendants laughed. Saul released the man from
his grip and patted him on the back.
Speaker 3 (08:33):
Please go and find that exact location. See where he
is hiding out, Be careful. He is crafty and escapes
like the demon into the night. Look for the lurking places.
No doubt he will be hiding like a rat in
a hole.
Speaker 2 (08:55):
The man did as he was told. The elders sent
out some of their herders as spies and the wildern
They combed the forests and caves or signs of David.
Then in the distance they could see the flickering lights
of their camp. They finally knew exactly where David was hiding.
They returned immediately to tell Saul of what they found.
(09:17):
David sat outside the caves admiring the sunset splashes of
red and orange painted the skies. David loved the chaotic
beauty of the sky. Its color seemed to have no
order or direction, yet every splash of red or orange
to the cloud seemed intentional, like the brushstrokes of an artist.
(09:37):
God's magnificence was put on display before him, and he
could not help but awe at his handiwork.
Speaker 3 (09:43):
The heavens declare the glory of God. David sang to himself,
The firmament shows his handiwork.
Speaker 2 (09:51):
He smiled and soaked in every last moment of the sunset.
When the sun was out of view beyond the horizon,
David stepped back into the caves. His men were preparing
their beds for the night. Another night of sleeping in
a cold, jagged cave. David shook his head. He hoped
for better. His men deserved it after their heroic deeds
(10:12):
in Kaylah. There were several fires lit within the cave,
each hosting ten to fifteen men around it. David went
to each camp, encouraging his men not to lose heart.
He reassured them that God would be faithful and good
to those who loved him. He made his way back
to the mouth of the cave, where Beniya was standing
watch any signs of trouble, David asked. Benya shrugged and
(10:35):
shook his head.
Speaker 5 (10:37):
I have only seen shepherds and cattle herders.
Speaker 2 (10:39):
Passing by, he said with a grin.
Speaker 5 (10:42):
So far, it does not seem like Saul knows where
we are. But we could never be too careful.
Speaker 8 (10:47):
Jashubiem and a few other men will be taking the
first shift to ensure we are protected.
Speaker 2 (10:52):
God has a great calling on your life, Baniya, David said,
with a smile, thank you for protecting us. Benaya blushed
and shook off the compliment. However, David meant what he said.
Banaia had the heart of a guardian, and David took
note of it. He left the mouth of the cave
and retreated back. The fires made the entire inside warm.
(11:13):
David tucked himself in towards the end of the cave.
He closed his eyes, trying to remember the image of
that breath taking sunset. The night drew on and the
only sounds were of crackling fire and snoring. David was
sound asleep, dreaming of his wife back home. A shadow
was cast on David as a hooded figure stood above him.
(11:35):
The heat of the fire was blocked for a moment,
and it was enough to make David awake. He drew
his sword and pointed it upward.
Speaker 3 (11:42):
Who goes there?
Speaker 2 (11:43):
He said, in a panic. David swiped and jumped to
his feet. The man stepped back behind the fire and
raised his hands in surrender.
Speaker 5 (11:51):
Now is that a way to treat a friend, the
man said.
Speaker 2 (11:56):
David knew that voice immediately, he did not need to
con firm suspicions. He dropped his sword and hugged the
man with all his might.
Speaker 3 (12:04):
Oh, oh, how I've missed you.
Speaker 2 (12:06):
Brother, he said, with a cracking voice.
Speaker 3 (12:09):
I am glad you are here.
Speaker 2 (12:10):
Jonathan Jonathan laughed and removed his hood.
Speaker 8 (12:14):
I could not risk your men seeing me and killing
me on sight. I am the son of a king.
Speaker 2 (12:18):
After all, he said. The two of them sat down.
David drew his dirty hair back. Jonathan had not seen
David since he left in exile. David's hair was much longer,
and his beard was messy and tangled.
Speaker 5 (12:32):
You have changed quite a bit, David.
Speaker 2 (12:34):
Jonathan said, lightheartedly.
Speaker 5 (12:36):
The wilderness suits you.
Speaker 2 (12:38):
David chuckled, insighed. He gestured to the men sleeping.
Speaker 3 (12:41):
We have gotten used to it out here, he said,
But what we lack in riches, we make up for
in heart.
Speaker 5 (12:49):
As has always been your way.
Speaker 2 (12:50):
Jonathan replied with a smile. The two of them talked
for a while. They spoke of may call the Palace
and all that had happened since David left. The light
hearted conversation with his friend was just what David needed. However,
he knew Jonathan had come with a purpose.
Speaker 3 (13:07):
Why have you come here, Jonathan.
Speaker 2 (13:08):
David asked solemnly. Jonathan sighed and grinned.
Speaker 5 (13:12):
My father will not stop his search.
Speaker 2 (13:14):
He said, while shaking his head.
Speaker 5 (13:16):
He is obsessed with finding you.
Speaker 3 (13:18):
David.
Speaker 8 (13:18):
It is a madness I have never seen before. His
eyes look like they belonged to someone else.
Speaker 5 (13:23):
He's not the Saul. I once knew that you once knew.
Speaker 2 (13:26):
David nodded in agreement. He too had not seen Saul
since his last attempt on his life. He prayed for
him often. Jonathan looked up at David and said.
Speaker 5 (13:36):
You have no need to fear him. He will not
find you. He may try, but the Lord will always
protect you. He always has.
Speaker 2 (13:44):
Jonathan paused for a moment and chuckled to himself.
Speaker 8 (13:48):
Even with your ragged beard and dusty clothes, you look
more like a king than he ever did. David, you
came from nothing, yet the Lord chose you to be
the king of Israel.
Speaker 5 (13:59):
You will be king, and I shall be there next
to you, fighting by your side for the heart of
our country.
Speaker 2 (14:05):
David nodded and wiped a few tears away from his eyes.
It was good to hear Jonathan's encouraging words again. They
refreshed his soul like water in a dry desert.
Speaker 3 (14:16):
Thank you, my brother, you are the kindest man I
have ever known.
Speaker 2 (14:22):
The two of them reaffirmed their covenant with one another,
being reminded of their commitment to each other. David was
strengthened by Jonathan's words of encouragement. He needed them now
more than ever. Jonathan stood to his feet and put
his hood back on be on.
Speaker 8 (14:38):
Guard, David, he warned, my father's men look around every corner.
I have no doubt he has discovered your whereabouts already.
I would move before it's too late.
Speaker 2 (14:47):
The two embraced, and Jonathan slipped back into the shadows
to return to the palace. David rushed to the mouth
of the cave, where Benia and the others were on watch.
They peered into the distance, seeing a faint trail of
tors which is coming from the north. It's him, David said.
The men responded immediately and woke the others. Every man
(15:08):
was ready in a matter of minutes, and the entire
company of six hundred men retreated from the caves to
the other side of the mountain. The sun was rising
and they were losing the covering of night. Shama returned
from scouting the perimeter. Saul's army had created three companies
to surround the area. They were closing in on them.
David began to panic as the men climbed up the
(15:30):
mountain to get to the other side. They scaled the
rocky surface with gravel and stones falling behind them.
Speaker 3 (15:36):
They're coming, Shama yelled. They are nearly here.
Speaker 2 (15:40):
David yelled for the men to quicken their pace up
the mountain on all fours. They climbed up, then slid
down the edge of the mountain, throwing themselves over. They
tumbled down, ungracefully, frantically trying to find a place to hide.
David looked down to see Saul and his men emerging
from the forest at the base of the hill, and
looked down to see the king. He was paralyzed by
(16:03):
fear and unable to move. Just as Saul was about
to look up the mountain and discover David, josh Obim
reached out from behind David and pulled him over the edge.
The two of them tumbled to the ground, then were
pulled into the small cave underneath the base. On the
other end, Saul and his army made their way up
the mountain, quickly sensing that David and his men were close.
(16:25):
Saul scaled up first, looking for any sign of his prey.
He paused at the top of the mountain, looking out
over the other side. He knew they were close. He
could almost hear the sound of their breathing down below.
Saul took a few steps forward and leaned over the edge,
looking down to see if he could see anything. Little
did he know, David and his men were right under
(16:47):
his nose, only a few yards away. Underneath. Saul gestured
for his men to follow him down the mountain. Then,
calling out from the bottom of the mountain was one
of Saul's.
Speaker 3 (16:57):
Servants, My King, my king, argent news.
Speaker 2 (17:01):
Saul looked down, frustrated.
Speaker 3 (17:03):
What is it? The Philistines have made an attack on Gibbea.
They know you, and all your army have gone.
Speaker 2 (17:09):
Saul's eyes widened, A sinking feeling came over him, and
he retreated down the hill. Immediately, he mounted his horse
and rode off with all his men. In an instant,
over a thousand of David's enemies were gone. The men
emerged from their hiding place and laughed. They cheered and
hugged one another, thankful that God had stoled them, even
(17:30):
if it was just for a few more days. David
led the men to the wilderness of Angetti. The lush vegetation,
surrounded by rivers and waterfalls, was a pleasant escape from
the harsh desert landscape of Man. The men made a
refuge for themselves and the caves beside the river, enjoying fish,
fresh fruit, and roots from the forests. The caves were
(17:53):
deeper than the others they had resided in, and the
men made a camp for themselves a few hundred yards deep.
If someone were to find the caves, they would never
suspect anyone was living in them. The stronghold was deep
and winding. However, sunlight made its way through cracks in
the ceiling, illuminating the way for those deep inside. Enough
(18:14):
time passed for Saul to fend off the Philistine attack
and recruit more than three thousand men to march in
search of David. He led them across the wilderness of
Man and over the mountain they had almost captured David.
They wandered for days in search of David to no avail.
Whatever trail they had was lost with time, and Saul
grew more and more discouraged. He fell deeper and deeper
(18:37):
into his own self loathing. He hated himself for what
he had become. Yet he could not help his paranoia.
It gripped him like a beast to the throat of
its prey. At night, he would lay awake, wrestling with
the voices of doubts swirling around in his mind. He
was a tormented soul, and he could feel his mind
slipping into oblivion. Saul's army camped outside the forest of Bengetti.
(19:02):
The vibrant green surrounding them was pleasant and peaceful. Saul
could feel a pull towards the river for refreshment. He
needed to seek time alone to rest and compose himself.
Speaker 3 (19:15):
I am going to the river to bathe, do not
follow me. I shall be back tonight or tomorrow, the.
Speaker 2 (19:24):
King said to his servants. So he ventured off into
the forest, breathing in the fresh air and listening to
the gentle babbling of streams near by, as if he
was in a Feverish days, Saul wandered up the river
towards the mouth of a large cave. The sun was
peeking in through the trees, splashing rays of light down
on the water below. Saul removed his clothes and waded
(19:46):
into the river. He washed himself and rested on the shore.
Even with the cool earth below him and the gentle
sunlight above him, his mind was still fogged with paranoia
and hatred. It consumed him even when he did not
want it. Saul dressed himself and walked into the mouth
of the cave. He rested his back against the wall
(20:07):
of the cave and rested his eyes. He allowed his
mind to drift and wander. He imagined himself capturing David
and dragging him into the streets by his beard. He
imagined his spear going straight through his heart. Even in
the midst of a peaceful and serene atmosphere, Saul's mind
still clung to violence. The king fell asleep there and
(20:29):
the large cave protected him from the evening breeze. He
is here, David, whispered a Liezar. David turned his head
to see his faithful three behind him. King Saul is
asleep at the mouth of the cave. Josh Obeim confirmed.
Speaker 6 (20:46):
Didn't the Lord tell you he would give the enemy
into your hands? This is what he was talking about.
God has given you Saul on a silver platter, and
you can do with him what you please.
Speaker 2 (20:57):
David said nothing. He simply stared the dark curves of
the cave leading to the entrance. Shamah placed his hand
on his shoulder and gestured forward.
Speaker 7 (21:07):
You can be King David.
Speaker 3 (21:09):
All you have to do is kill him before he
kills you.
Speaker 2 (21:12):
Slit his throat, David, Eliezar said, put.
Speaker 5 (21:15):
An end to this madness once and for all.
Speaker 2 (21:18):
He placed a dagger in David's hands. He gripped it
tight and walked forward toward the mouth of the cave.
Speaker 3 (21:24):
Kill Saul.
Speaker 2 (21:25):
David thought to himself, is it really that sung? David
approached the mouth of the cave. Saul was leaning against
the wall, sound asleep. The light of the late afternoon
exposed his aging face. He looked older than David remembered him.
It was as if all these months of hatred and
jealousy had aged him more rapidly. David stood over the
(21:47):
king with the blade in his hands. He was an
easy target. It would be nothing for David to cut
his throat and be done with the madness. He stood
over Saul in the darkness of the cave for a
few moments. The echoes of the streams beside the cave
bounced off the cave walls. Sweat beat down David's brow
as he knelt down and raised the dagger to Saul's throat.
(22:11):
Only one slash, that is all will take the throne
of Israel. The armies of God, and the affection of
the people could all be his. All he had to
do was pressed the blade against the king's throat. Quietly,
David lowered his blade. He grabbed a part of his
(22:32):
robe and cut off a small sliver of its edge.
He held the small piece of garment in his hand
and stood to his feet. His hands were shaking as
he looked down at it. Then David leapt quietly and
did not disturb Saul any further. David retreated back deeper
into the cave and stopped. He looked down to the
(22:53):
piece of Saul's robe in his hands. He gripped it
tightly and leaned his head against the cave and wept.
He silently sobbed, pounding his fist against his chest. His
men walked up to him.
Speaker 5 (23:07):
Did you do it?
Speaker 2 (23:08):
They asked?
Speaker 5 (23:09):
Is the king dead?
Speaker 2 (23:10):
David held up the piece of Saul's robe.
Speaker 3 (23:12):
I shall not put my hand against God's anointed. I
should not have laid even a finger on him. He
is the king of God's people. He does not deserve
such a slight against him.
Speaker 6 (23:23):
A slight against him, joshall be masked. You did not
kill him, You didn't even harm him. Look, you turned
off a piece of his robe. Does this deserve such tears?
Speaker 2 (23:34):
David? The men were angry. Saul was the reason they
were outcasts and on the run. Saul had hunted them
and treated them like animals, Yet David refused to kill him.
It made them angry. He is God's anointed, David replied, aggressively.
Speaker 3 (23:50):
My tears are for the heart within me that would
even consider vengeance. Vengeance is the Lord's I will not
take his life so that I may be elevated.
Speaker 2 (24:02):
When the men saw David's passion, they ceased their protests.
David raised a finger to them and said.
Speaker 3 (24:09):
I order you to stay away from him. Do not
disturb him or lay a hand on him.
Speaker 2 (24:15):
The men restrained themselves and allowed the king to rest
until he awoke. Later that day. David leaned against the
cave walls, looking out at Saul from the shadows. His
mind erased with a thousand different reasons to kill him,
yet his heart broke for the king. He longed to
be in his courts again, playing melodies of hope for
(24:36):
his weary soul. King Saul was like a father to him,
and it pained him that he even raised a dagger
close to him. David wanted Saul rise from his slumber
and stretch. The king stood up and began walking outside.
He knelt down to splash water on his face. As
he was kneeling over, David stepped out from the shadows.
(24:59):
My lord King, he shouted. Saul jolted up and drew
his sword. You, he yelled with a scowl. Saul shifted
his feet and prepared himself to fight. David looked into
Saul's eyes. They glared at him with pure and boiling hatred.
It was not the gaze of a man questioning his
(25:20):
own heart. Saul had determined to kill David, yet even
still he could not bring himself to fight. David slowly
drew his sword from his back and raised it up.
Saul gnashed his teeth, bracing himself for an attack. David
did not advance. He took his sword and threw it
on to the ground in front of Saul.
Speaker 3 (25:41):
I will not fight you, King Saul.
Speaker 2 (25:44):
He said.
Speaker 9 (25:45):
His voice was trembling, and why should I trust you?
Saul asked, why should you trust me? David replied. He
fell to his knees and stretched out his arms.
Speaker 3 (25:57):
Who has whispered lies into your ears? Who has told
you that I seek to do you harm?
Speaker 2 (26:04):
David took out the ripped piece of Saul's cloak and
showed it to him.
Speaker 3 (26:08):
Look and see the torn part of your garment. To day,
the Lord delivered you into my hand. In that cave.
Some of my men urged me to kill you, Yet
I restrained myself. I spared you. I showed you a
kindness you would not have shown me.
Speaker 2 (26:27):
Saul could not believe his eyes. He had obsessed over
a false image of David in his mind for so long,
he found it hard to believe he could spare him.
Speaker 3 (26:39):
Why spare me when I have been hunting you for
all this time.
Speaker 2 (26:42):
Saul asked suspiciously.
Speaker 3 (26:44):
Why because I will not stretch out my hand against
the Lord's anointed. I've considered you like a father. Neither
rebellion or evil lies within my heart against you. I
have done nothing to warrant your hatred, Yet you hunt
me like an animal.
Speaker 2 (27:04):
Saul shook his head, his tormented soul stirred like stormy waters.
He found it hard to judge for himself what was
real and what was not. David continued his questioning in
hopes to wind back Saul's heart.
Speaker 3 (27:18):
I held the blade inches from your throat, but did
not take your life. As long as I live, I
will not raise a hand against you. As the proverb
of the ancients says, wickedness proceeds from the wicked. Look
at me, Saul, am I a wicked man? Who have
(27:42):
you spent months pursuing a dead dog a flea? Let
God be the judge between you and I.
Speaker 2 (27:51):
David then lowered his face to the ground and pressed
his nose against the dirt. He waited in silence for
Saul to respond, either with a word or with the
swing of his sword. When Saul watched David bow, something
changed in his heart. The fog that had filled his
mind for so long began to clear, like the sun
(28:16):
breaking away the morning clouds. Clarity of thought was restored
to him. It was as if scales were peeling away
from Saul's eyes, and he could see the truth of
what God was truly doing. For a brief moment, Saul
was able to see clearly. He saw before him not
an enemy, but a faithful son and a devoted servant
(28:40):
of God. He looked down at the humility of David.
It was a humility he never had, but God desired.
Tears began to stream down saisfies, and his shoulders began
to tremble. He dropped his sword, and the dam of
his soul burst open violently. For the first time in months,
(29:02):
Saul was no longer blind to what God was doing.
Speaker 3 (29:06):
Is that you, my son, David?
Speaker 2 (29:10):
David looked up Saul's dark and callous gaze was replaced
with vulnerability and weakness. The king fell to his knees
and wept with his face in his hands.
Speaker 3 (29:21):
You are a more righteous man than I him, for
you have rewarded all my evil with good. You have
shown this day why God has chosen you to be
king over me.
Speaker 2 (29:36):
As the words came out of Sal's mouth, David knew
that the Lord had indeed called him to be king.
Speaker 3 (29:42):
Whatever comes will come, David said, However, at this present
moment you are my king. I will not harm you.
Saul stood to his feet and wiped his eyes. It
is clear that Israel shall be yours. This is a
I ask that you will not cut off my descendants
(30:03):
after me. Please do not destroy the name.
Speaker 2 (30:06):
Of my father. A quiet resolve came over David. Now
that Saul had acknowledged David's calling, he felt the freedom
to truly carry himself like a king. You have my word,
David said. Saul stepped forward to David.
Speaker 3 (30:22):
Return with me to the palace. David, return to my
daughter and to your men. We may find a way
to have peace.
Speaker 2 (30:31):
However, David took a step back, not allowing Saul to
move any further. He truly believed Saul meant what he said. However,
he had seen Saul's mind shift and move like the
tide in his storm. He did not trust him.
Speaker 3 (30:45):
I will remain here, my king. If called upon to
fight for the safety of my country, I will respond. However,
I believe there is work to be done between you
and the Lord before I return.
Speaker 2 (31:00):
All looked disappointed. I see, he said, then I shall
be going. The two nodded at one another. David bowed
his head and sent the king on his way. Saul
made his way out of the forest, and David retreated
back into the caves. His men were waiting for him eagerly.
(31:20):
What did the king say, joshall be masked.
Speaker 3 (31:24):
He offered for me to return with him to the
palace and live in peace.
Speaker 2 (31:29):
David said, plainly, is that good news? Benyah asked perhaps.
Speaker 3 (31:34):
David replied, however, there is still much for the King
to wrestle with. I fear his contempt for me may return.
We must be on God. The men agreed and fortified
the stronghold. David walked with his head held higher. He
knew deep down that he was now being groomed by
(31:57):
the Lord to be a king.
Speaker 1 (32:02):
We almost got to see the end of King Saul.
David was so close. What kept him from following through
with it? Was it cowardice? Weakness? Did he chicken out
at the last minute. We know enough about David by
now to know he is no coward or weekly. David
is the bravest man alive, and that is precisely why
he spared Saul's life. Much had to be taken place
(32:25):
before David and Saul could meet each other again face
to face, and it all began with a visit from
an old friend. In this episode, the dynamic duo of
David and Jonathan makes another appearance. Jonathan comes at the
perfect time, first to warn the Giant Slayers of his
father's plans, second to encourage his soul and given straight.
(32:47):
The way Jonathan refreshes David in this episode brings a
smile to my face. We all need people like Jonathan
in our lives, don't we. We need people to remind
us of who we are, especially when life is uncertain
and unsteady. The Young Prince reminded our hero that his
identity was secured in the heavens, despite whatever circumstances took place.
(33:09):
Friends like Jonathan secure our minds when life knocks us
off balance. We need Jonathan's in our lives to anchor
us in our callings, in our trials. We may stray
with the rising and falling tide. Friends, real friends, keep
our souls tied to who we really are. Jonathan les
(33:30):
and David is in powered and not a moment too soon.
Saul is on the move and bloodthirsty. The army of
outcast is forced once again to pick up and leave.
The king nearly captures him, but luckily they are able
to evade him. The perspective shifts back and forth between
David and Saul, and we are giving more looks into
(33:51):
the fragile psyche of the first King of Israel. He
is consumed with irrational rage against David, but he is
also filled with self loathing and guilt. Here's a small
glimpse into his inner dialogue from the episode. He fell
deeper and deeper into his own self loathing. He hated
himself for what he had become, Yet he could not
(34:13):
help his paranoia. It gripped him like a beast to
the throat of its prey. At night, he would lay awake,
wrestling with the voices of doubts swirling around his mind.
He was a tormented soul and he could feel his
mind slipping into oblivion. Paranoia and rage are dragging Saul
into a pit of despair, and he is helpless to
(34:35):
help himself. If you don't feel a little bit sad
for Saul, then you are attuned to the heart of
the biblical authors. We are supposed to pity Saul, at
least a bit. This episode is a reminder that not
every villain is worthy of our disdain. Stories about knights
fighting dragons sit better with us because the enemies aren't human.
(34:56):
We don't ever feel sorry for the dragon that's slain
or the troll that's killed, but we do feel bad
for the descending sanity of Saul. He is not a
dragon to be slain. He's a man, a king, a
tortured soul that was once filled with the passion of God.
Not everybody understands this, but David does. Saul is vulnerable
(35:18):
and ripe for the taking. David's closest companions earnestly beg
him to end his life, and by doing so, in
their misery, David stands over sleeping Saul with the blade
in his hand. Instead of taking his life, he takes
a piece of his cloak. Why couldn't David do it?
Saul had caused so much pain and suffering, so why
(35:39):
not in all of the heartache. Wouldn't the entire nation
be better off as Saul were dead and David were king? Perhaps,
but there was something greater at work in this story.
Like many stories in scripture, the real important events are
taking place within the character. David was staring at the
man who was as to be like him. Saul was
(36:02):
supposed to be the warrior, king and hero of Israel.
Saul was supposed to lead his men with passion and
worship his God with righteousness. But Saul let small compromises
of his convictions tally up and eventually found himself enslaved
to his pride and self indulgence. This scene with David
so close shows us that the veil between us and
(36:24):
our enemies is paper thin. David is only a few
choices away from becoming like Saul, so in a way,
killing Saul would be like killing his own virtue. David
retreats silently back into the cave and brings the torn
piece of fabric back to his companions. They are understandably
upset that David refused to kill him. If we were
(36:47):
in their positions, we might think that the giant Slayer
had a moment of weakness here, perhaps he lost his
nerve or didn't have the carriage to swipe the blade.
We know enough about David now to know it is
not cowardice that drives him. David is the most fierce
and capable warrior in all of is real and perhaps
the world. He is courageous, bold, fearless in the face
(37:10):
of danger, so it is not weakness that compels him,
but meekness. Meekness is different from weakness. Those who are
weak are incapable of harming anyone, so they can't claim
moral virtue when they refuse to fight. They can't fight,
so their decision not to fight isn't noble, it's self preservation. However,
those who can fight, or perhaps are the best at fighting,
(37:33):
like David, prove their strength when they put their blades away.
David knows it would be easier to fight and when,
but instead chooses the more difficult path of peace. Meekness
is having the capacity to do harm, but instead doing good.
David releases solved, but does not let him get away
(37:53):
with ignorance. He needs to know that David spared his life.
The two meet face to face for the first time
since its exile, and David reminds Saul that he could
have harmed him, but chose not to. The shepherd makes
a case to the King, imploring him to see the
error of his ways. I have done nothing to warrant
(38:14):
your hatred, yet you hunt me like an animal. David says.
The very fact that David could have killed Saul in
his sleep but chose not to, is proof that he
is not the enemy. All of Saul's hatred for David
was a product of delusion and paranoia. This leads us
to an important point to be taken from Saul's sad story.
(38:37):
Contempt comes from within. The hatred we often experience toward
others comes from within our own hearts. First we feel
hatred in our hearts, then we look for someone to hate.
That is the order, not the other way around. This
leads us to the final scene and call back to
our prelude. The mercy David showed Saul was enough to
(39:00):
momentarily melt his pride and sober his mind. Like scales
pulling away from his eyes, Saul sees David clearly. He
recognizes him as king and bows to him. Mercy opens
up our eyes. That is what happened to Saul of
Tarsus on the road to Damascus. When he experienced the
mercy of Jesus, his blind eyes were finally open. This
(39:24):
happens to Saul, and like the sun's rays shining through
a few storm clouds, he has a moment of clarity.
Mercy can do wonderful things to a man. Unfortunately for David,
Saul's moment of clarity is short lived. David is noble
enough to forgive Saul, but not dumb enough to trust him.
He knows that Saul can change back at any moment,
(39:47):
so he remains in the wilderness. He promises to always
be a deliverer for Israel. When they need him, he
will come. They will need him. The hero of God
will rise up to defend his flock, and Saul will
eventually meet his end. In our next episode, David carries
himself with a newfound confidence and meets an interesting woman.
(40:09):
He carries himself more like a king, and the small
shepherd boy we have come to know and love seems
to be further in the distance. Is David maturing or
is he slipping? These are questions that will be answered
in our next episode. Abigail, thanks again for listening. For
more inspiring stories, daily prayers and wisdom to last the lifetime,
(40:30):
go to pray dot com. And to expand your heroes
in the Bible journey, download the Heroes of the Faith
devotional at Tony Evans dot org. Forward slash Heroes. Follow
the podcast on Apple or Spotify to get the newest
episodes right as they come out, and always be inspired
by the Bible.
Host
Dr. Tony Evans
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