June 22, 2025 • 27 mins
# 176 - David Spares Saul - In this episode of The Chosen People with Yael Eckstein, David comes face to face with the man hunting him—armed with the chance to kill, but choosing mercy instead. As the cave becomes a crucible of restraint, we witness how true strength lies not in revenge, but in trusting God’s justice and becoming the kind of king who leads with grace.
Episode 176 of The Chosen People with Yael Eckstein is inspired by the Book of Joshua.
Sign up for The Chosen People devotionals at https://www.thechosenpeople.com/sign-up
For more information about Yael Eckstein and IFCJ visit https://www.ifcj.org/
Today's opening prayer is inspired by Romans 12:17, "Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone."
Listen to some of the greatest Bible stories ever told and make prayer a priority in your life by downloading the Pray.com app.
Show Notes:
(01:32) Intro with Yael Eckstein
(02:22) David Spares Saul
(25:52) Reflection with Yael Eckstein
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Mark as Played
Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Speaker 1 (00:00):
Previously on the Chosen people. A flock of misfits gathered
under the staff of a shepherd who knew what it
was to be cast aside. These men were his flock.
Now not sheep, but six hundred souls, and by the
grace of God, he would be their shepherd.
Speaker 2 (00:21):
I come from Callia. The Philistines have overrun the city.
They burned the farms and broke through the gates. Be
taken home, Swimen children, everything the Eldest sent me to
find you. Saul has not answered our cries. We begged
him for eight days ago, and still nothing. They said,
if anyone would come, it would be you. We need
(00:43):
a savior.
Speaker 3 (00:45):
My brothers.
Speaker 4 (00:47):
I know many of you have no reason to fight
for this land. This is the land they cast you out.
But today the Lord has called you to stand for
those who would never stand for you.
Speaker 3 (01:00):
You're the wall, but the wars of this house.
Speaker 5 (01:03):
Remember what it means to betray the anointed King.
Speaker 1 (01:07):
David's heart caved in his chest. The very people they
had saved would betray them to save themselves. So they
fled into the night, six hundred souls, stumbling through fields
and gullies, tripping over stones, and tangled roots. The joy
(01:28):
of their victory had turned to ash on their tongues.
Speaker 6 (01:34):
Shello, my friends, from here in the holy Land of Israel.
I'm ya l Extein with the International Fellowship of Christians
and Jews, and welcome to the Chosen People. Each day
we'll hear a dramatic story inspired by the Bible, stories
filled with timeless lessons of faith, love, and the meaning
of life. Through Israel's story, we will find this truth
(01:57):
that we are all chosen for something great.
Speaker 5 (02:00):
So take a moment.
Speaker 6 (02:02):
Today to follow the podcast. If you're feeling extra grateful
for these stories, we would love it if you left
us a review. I read every single one of them,
and if you're interested in hearing more about the prophetic,
life saving work of the Fellowship, you can visit IFCJ
dot org. Let's begin.
Speaker 1 (02:27):
David sat outside the mouth of the cave, the wind
curling through the rocks like a sigh from the earth itself.
The sky was bleeding out in the west, streaked with
red and copper and gold. There was a wildness to
it that David loved, a beauty that seemed careless and
(02:48):
perfect all at once.
Speaker 3 (02:51):
The heavens declare the glory of God. The firmament shows
his handiwork.
Speaker 1 (02:58):
The sun dip low of as if swallowed by the earth,
and David returned to the cave. Inside his men were
bedding down for the night, sharpening blades and huddling close
to the fire. Smoke clung to the damp stone walls,
mingling with the smell of sweat and cooked meat. It
(03:20):
wasn't much of a home, but it was what they had.
David moved from fire to fire, laying a hand on
each man's shoulder, speaking quiet words of comfort. David then
found his own corner deep inside the cave. He lay down,
closed his eyes and tried to summon the sunset back
(03:41):
into his mind. Sleep came slowly. It was some time
deep in the night when David stirred, sensing a shadow
above him. His hand found the hilt of his sword
before his eyes were even open. The blade flashed in
the firelight. As David leapt to his.
Speaker 3 (03:59):
Fat who goes there, name yourself?
Speaker 1 (04:03):
The figure stepped back, hands raised in surrender, his face
still hidden beneath the hood.
Speaker 7 (04:09):
There are fools who walk willingly into the lion's den.
Speaker 1 (04:12):
David's sword clattered to the ground, as he stepped forward,
embracing the man like a brother.
Speaker 3 (04:19):
Long lost, Jonathan Jonathan.
Speaker 1 (04:24):
They held each other for a moment before Jonathan stepped back.
I scanning his friend from the head to toe.
Speaker 7 (04:31):
It looked like Doug.
Speaker 3 (04:34):
I often feel like Doug. How did you find me?
Speaker 7 (04:38):
SLA's cut wind of your location. We'll probably march soon.
Speaker 3 (04:43):
When will this madness end?
Speaker 7 (04:46):
Saw won't stop. You can't stop. It's like a fever
in his blood. He talks to himself now, muttering your name,
like a curse and a prayer, all at once.
Speaker 1 (04:56):
David swallowed hard. He had prayed for sare evere night
since his exile began, but with each new story, his
prayers grew heavier with doubt.
Speaker 3 (05:07):
What of Michael does she ask about me?
Speaker 7 (05:10):
Ah, David, My sister is young, and my father hates you.
There's no way he'd allow Michael to stay wedded to
the son of Jesse.
Speaker 3 (05:21):
What did Saul do?
Speaker 7 (05:23):
Saul has given Michael's hand to another Palty, son of Laish,
wealthy Benjamine, nobleman funding much of Saul's escapades.
Speaker 3 (05:33):
He's taken everything.
Speaker 7 (05:35):
Don't give Saul more space in your mind than he's worth.
Can you say that he's the reason I'm here on surface, Yes,
but he's not the true why, and you know it.
Speaker 4 (05:45):
I'm too tired for your philosophizing, Jonathan.
Speaker 3 (05:48):
Look around you.
Speaker 4 (05:49):
I've been sleeping on rocks for months.
Speaker 7 (05:52):
You're not seeing the bigger picture.
Speaker 1 (05:53):
David grabbed Jonathan by the tunic and pressed him against
the stone. Jonathan didn't flinch. He only gribbed David's wrists hard,
reminding him that he wouldn't be easy in a fight.
Speaker 4 (06:07):
Don't try to enlighten me, you spoiled prince. I know
the big picture. I'm the peasant son of a herder
who forgot his place. These caves are where I belong.
Saul's reminded me of that.
Speaker 7 (06:19):
Stop feeling sorry for yourself and wake up.
Speaker 8 (06:21):
Wake up to what you may be away from the
sheets of a polished palace chamber, but lying here in
the dirt, you're still more than a king than Saul
will ever be.
Speaker 1 (06:31):
David's eyes widened at that. The words hit. Jonathan stepped
closer and placed his hands on David's neck. He looked
at him earnestly, with the affection that pierced beyond the
bonds of blood. And marriage.
Speaker 7 (06:46):
You've drawn brave men from every tribe to unite under you.
You've protected the people, Saul. They hunt you to the
ends of the earth, but God will shield you just
as he always has. You'ven dressed and rags. You look
more like a king than he ever did. You will
sit on the throne, David, and when that day comes,
(07:07):
I will stand beside you, sword in hand, fighting for
the heart of our people.
Speaker 1 (07:11):
David turned away to wipe his eyes, but Jonathan saw
the tears all the same.
Speaker 3 (07:18):
Sorry, I've called you a spoiled prince.
Speaker 7 (07:21):
Sorry I called you a whiney child.
Speaker 3 (07:23):
You didn't call me a whiney child.
Speaker 7 (07:25):
I thought it, then thought about hitting you with the
hilt of my sword.
Speaker 1 (07:30):
Together they laughed and swore the old oath again, a
covenant forged between brothers, unshaken by war, exile, all the
madness of a king. Jonathan stood and drew his hood
once more.
Speaker 7 (07:46):
Sal's men are closer than you think. Moose silk.
Speaker 1 (07:49):
They embraced one last time, and Jonathan slipped into the shadows,
leaving David alone once more. David led his men south
into the wilder of Ngadee, where the air was fresh
with wild flowers. The damp earth beside the river gave
way beneath their feet. After so many days of running
(08:11):
through jagged hills and barren wastes, Engade felt like a
sliver of Eden. They set their fires deep within the cave,
far from prying eyes. Saul marched through the wilderness like
a man chasing shadows. Three thousand men rode at his back,
(08:34):
the best of Israel's warriors, Yet none could silence the
voices gnawing at his mind.
Speaker 9 (08:41):
The desert has swallowed deepd all. He's out there somewhere,
laughing at you. He's mocking you. They're all mocking you.
Speaker 1 (09:02):
Every time Saul thought he had him cornered, the boy vanished,
as if the very earth conspired to hide him. The
king could feel his mind unraveling thread by thread. At night,
he lay awake, staring into the blackness of his tent,
listening to the wind whistled through the rocks like mocking laughter.
(09:24):
Then there was the voice, the incessant drip of venom,
poisoning his mind and resolve.
Speaker 9 (09:33):
As long as Devid's out there.
Speaker 5 (09:40):
You're never safe. Your men conspire against you. They'll leave,
they'll leave you free. For him.
Speaker 9 (09:57):
You need to cut that brab like a fish.
Speaker 1 (10:00):
Saul and his men rode through the dry, cracked wastes
of Mound, over the ridges, and through the valleys until
they reached the forest of Engeddie. The land was different here,
lush and green, with waterfalls that tumbled from the cliffs
like silver ribbons. Saul sat on a rock outside his tent,
(10:22):
staring into the trees, his spear resting across his lap.
He felt weary to his bones, as if his very
soul had been carved out. He needed to be alone.
Speaker 10 (10:36):
I am going to the river. Do not follow me.
I shall return when I am ready.
Speaker 1 (10:45):
He walked into the woods. The deeper he went, the
cooler the air became. He followed the winding stream, past boulders,
slick with moss, and trees stretching skyward like sentinels, until
he found a place where the river widened into a deep,
clear pool. Saul stripped off his royal robes and tossed
(11:08):
them onto a rock. He stepped into the water, feeling
the cold bite at his skin. Washing away the dust
and sweat of the hunt, He dipped his head beneath
the surface. The silence swallowing him whole. For a moment,
there was nothing, no voices, no whispers, no conspiracies, just
(11:31):
water and breath. He surfaced, blinking against the sunlight, running
a hand through his wet hair, his limbs ached, his
body worn from sleepless nights, from the madness gnawing at
his mind like a hungry wolf. Saul dressed himself and
wandered up the river bank towards the mouth of a vast,
(11:55):
yawning cave. The king stepped inside, leaning back against the
stone wall, closing his eyes, his head ached, he let
himself drift. As he drifted into an uneasy slumber, he
did not know that deep within the cave, hidden in
the shadows, David and his men were watching, waiting. He's here, David.
(12:23):
David turned his three most trusted men, crouched in the
shadows behind him, Habishi, Jashabine, and Beniah. Saul sleeps at
the mouth of the cave. Didn't the Lord tell you he.
Speaker 4 (12:37):
Would give your enemy into your hands.
Speaker 3 (12:39):
This is what he meant.
Speaker 1 (12:41):
The old fool has delivered himself to you, and now
you can.
Speaker 3 (12:45):
Do what you please.
Speaker 1 (12:47):
David said nothing. Habishi placed a steady hand on his shoulder,
his voice low and urgent.
Speaker 3 (12:55):
This is your moment, David.
Speaker 4 (12:57):
You could end the chase, end the ex end him,
slit his throat, put an end to this madness.
Speaker 3 (13:06):
Once over all.
Speaker 1 (13:07):
Beniah handed David a dagger. David gripped the blade, still silent.
He felt the weight of it, the certainty in its
sharp edge.
Speaker 3 (13:18):
Kill Saul. Is it really that easy?
Speaker 1 (13:22):
It could be just one stroke of the blade and
we can all go home. You will be king Abish
I wasn't wrong, But was he truly right? David could
end it? But should he? Slowly he rose to his
feet and move toward the cave's mouth, the dagger pulsing
(13:46):
in his grip like a living thing.
Speaker 3 (13:49):
It is so truly different from Gormaith.
Speaker 1 (13:52):
The throne of Israel, the armies of God, the love
of the people, all of it would be here with
a single stroke of the blade. No more running, no
more hiding in caves like a common bandit, no more
fearing the next dawn. He could be free, He could
(14:13):
be king. David's breath was steady as he stepped into
the slanting light. Saul lay against the rock, his back
to the cave wall. His chin dipped against his chest
in sleep. David had not seen him in months, but
now so close he hardly recognized the man who had
(14:35):
once been his king. Saul had aged. The once great
warrior of Israel, looked gaunt, his beard streaked with gray,
his lips slightly parted in restless slumber. The lines of
his face had deepened, carved by sleepless nights and the
slow decay of his own mind. David knelt beside him,
(15:00):
dagger poised.
Speaker 3 (15:02):
It would be.
Speaker 1 (15:03):
Easy, a single stroke, a slit across the throat, swift
and silent. Saul wouldn't even wake before he was gone.
David stared at the king's neck. The pulse was faint, steady,
the very breath of the man who had tried to
kill him. David's fingers trembled on the hilt. His heart
(15:27):
pounded against his ribs, each beat whispering a choice in him.
Speaker 5 (15:34):
In this you can keep.
Speaker 1 (15:38):
David's blade did not move. He closed his eyes. Then,
without a sound, he lowered his dagger to saw. He
brought the dagger down not against flesh, but against the
cloth of his robe, slicing a small sliver from the edge.
(15:59):
The fabric fell weightless in his palm, yet heavier than
any sword. He stared at it breathless, his hands shaking.
Then without a word, David turned and disappeared back into
the darkness of the cave, leaving Saul to his restless dreams.
(16:20):
David stumbled back into the darkness of the cave, his
breath uneven, his hands shaking. He could still feel the
weight of the blade in his grip, the cold steel
meant for Saul's throat. Instead, all he held was the
torn fragment of the king's robe, fluttering in his fingers
like a broken promise. He leaned against the jagged stone
(16:44):
wall and let out a shuddering breath. Then, without warning,
the grief overtook him. Silent sobs racked his chest as
he pounded his fist against his ribs, as if to
beat the weakness from his heart. His men surrounded him,
their faces grim with expectation.
Speaker 7 (17:04):
Did you do it? He's the king dead?
Speaker 1 (17:07):
David held up the torn cloth, his fingers curling around
it as though it might disappear.
Speaker 3 (17:14):
I shouldn't have even touched him. Here is the Lord's anointed.
Speaker 4 (17:18):
I should never have raised a hand against him.
Speaker 1 (17:21):
What are you talking about?
Speaker 7 (17:23):
If you didn't even kill him. What is this self
loathing over a scrap of cloth?
Speaker 1 (17:28):
Benaiah spat onto the cave floor.
Speaker 8 (17:31):
Sal's the reason we are hunted like animals. He's the
reason we live in the shadows and sleep on stone.
The man would gun you with the second thought, yet
you weep over his robes.
Speaker 1 (17:43):
David lifted his gaze, and when he spoke, his voice
was iron.
Speaker 3 (17:48):
He is the Lord's anointed.
Speaker 4 (17:49):
My tears are not for hidden, They are for the
part of me that even considered vengeance.
Speaker 1 (17:55):
His hand tightened around the fabric.
Speaker 3 (17:57):
Vengeance belongs to the Lord.
Speaker 4 (18:00):
I will not take his life so that I may
be lifted up. I will not ascend the throne by
blood and treachery.
Speaker 5 (18:07):
You understand what kind of thing.
Speaker 2 (18:10):
I am?
Speaker 3 (18:10):
Not a man of loove?
Speaker 7 (18:12):
Yes you are.
Speaker 2 (18:13):
We all are.
Speaker 3 (18:14):
We shed blood in defense of our nation.
Speaker 7 (18:16):
Because Saul had abandoned it.
Speaker 8 (18:19):
He should have decayed, David, but he is here and
I if.
Speaker 4 (18:24):
I can't honor them, and what does the throne even mean?
Speaker 1 (18:27):
Beniah's jaw twitched. He wanted to curse Saul's name and
tell David that he was too noble for his own good.
But David raised a finger to.
Speaker 4 (18:38):
Them, Swear to me now, none of you will harm
the King, none of you will disturb him in his slumber.
Speaker 1 (18:45):
There was hesitation, but slowly, one by one they nodded.
Saul slept on, unaware that death had been so close
that it had stood over him, and then turned away.
David remained in the shadows, watching how many reasons could
(19:06):
he find to kill him a thousand more? And yet,
watching the old king stir in his sleep, David did
not feel hatred. He felt something worse, pity. Saul stirred.
Then he woke. The king blinked against the light, stretching
(19:27):
his aching limbs. He ran a hand through his grain beard, sighed,
and stepped outside into the morning sun. He knelt by
the stream, cupping the water in his hands, splashing it
over his face, and then David stepped out from the shadows.
Speaker 3 (19:46):
My Lord King Saul.
Speaker 1 (19:49):
Saul jolted up, whirling his swords scraping from its scabbard.
His eyes found David, and for a moment there was
nothing but raw fear ury in them. His knuckles whitened
around the grip of his blade. David's men stood behind
him in the shadows, wanting to bounce, but heeding David's
(20:10):
orders to stay you. David met his gaze. He saw
the rage there, the hatred burning just beneath the surface.
Slowly he drew his own sword. Saul shifted his feet
and charged. David rolled his neck back and drew a
(20:31):
deep breath. Saul was coming for his head. Saul swung
downward first, but David dodged it and slid to his right.
Saul turned and jabbed twice, once at David's neck and
then down to his ribs. David parried each advance, twisted
and jumped backward to create distance between them.
Speaker 5 (20:53):
Fight me, I am man.
Speaker 1 (20:56):
David did not move to attack. Instead, he lifted the
blade high, then threw it down at Saul's feet. The
metal clattered against the stones, and David took a step back.
Speaker 3 (21:09):
I will not fight you, my king, neither will my men.
Speaker 1 (21:13):
Saul narrowed his eyes and saw David's men slowly creep
from the shadows. None of them had their swords drawn.
Speaker 3 (21:21):
What kind of trick is this?
Speaker 1 (21:23):
David exhaled his breath, steady, his heart hammering against his ribs.
Speaker 4 (21:30):
Who has whispered lies into your ears? Who has told
you that I seek your life.
Speaker 1 (21:36):
He reached into his cloak and withdrew the torn piece
of fabric.
Speaker 4 (21:41):
Look at this, Look at the hymn of your robe.
Today the Lord delivered you into my hands. Some of
my men urged me to kill you, but I would not.
I spared your life.
Speaker 1 (21:54):
Saul stared at the fabric, as if seeing his own
madness laid bare before him. His grip on his sword slackened.
Speaker 11 (22:03):
You were like a father to me, more of a
father than mine ever was. I've loved you, and yet
you hunt me like a wild beast. I held a
blade inches from your throat, and I did not take
your life. Let the lords judge between you and me.
Speaker 5 (22:21):
Let him be the one to decide my fate.
Speaker 4 (22:24):
But as for me, I will never raise a hand
against you.
Speaker 1 (22:28):
Then, with slow deliberation, David fell to his knees. He
bowed his head, stretched his hands outward, and pressed his
forehead into the dirt. He did not move, and he
did not breathe. He waited for a word, for a blade,
(22:48):
for judgment, and then Saul wept. It came suddenly, violently,
as though the damn of his soul had finally burst.
His sword slipped from his grasp and clattered to the ground.
His shoulders shook as he collapsed to his knees, his
(23:09):
face buried in his hands.
Speaker 3 (23:15):
Is that you, my son?
Speaker 1 (23:21):
David lifted his head. He saw the tears streaming down
Saul's face, saw the anguish carved into the lines of
his features.
Speaker 10 (23:32):
You are more righteous than I. For you you have
repaid my evil but kindness this day. You have shown
why the Lord has chosen you. Israel will be yours, David.
(23:53):
It as clear as the sun in the sky. You
will be king.
Speaker 1 (23:58):
David's breath hitched the words Saul's own lips had spoken them.
Whatever comes will come, he thought. Saul stood, wiping at
his eyes.
Speaker 10 (24:12):
Swear to me, when your day comes, when the throne
is yours, do not cut off my descendants, do not
erase the name but my father.
Speaker 1 (24:26):
David looked him in the eye, wary of Saul's sudden
change and demeanor.
Speaker 3 (24:32):
You have my word.
Speaker 1 (24:33):
Saul exhaled a long breath. He stepped forward, hesitant.
Speaker 10 (24:40):
Returned with me to the palace. David, return to my daughter,
to your home.
Speaker 9 (24:48):
Perhaps there may yet be peace between us.
Speaker 1 (24:51):
David took a step back. He wanted to believe Saul's words.
He saw the sincerity in his eyes, but he had
also seen how quickly Saul's mind could shift, how easily
his paranoia could consume him again.
Speaker 3 (25:08):
I will remain here, my king.
Speaker 4 (25:10):
If my country calls upon me to fight for its safety,
I will come. But I believe there's still work to
be done between you and the Lord.
Speaker 3 (25:19):
Before I return.
Speaker 1 (25:21):
Saul's face fell, I see, the king said no more,
but David could see a slight shift in his eyes.
Something sinister was still there. He only nodded and turned away,
disappearing into the trees, back to his men. David watched
(25:42):
him go. He lingered for a long moment before retreating
back into the caves.
Speaker 6 (25:54):
If your faith has been kindled by this podcast and
it has affected your life, we'd love it if you
left her review. We read them, and me personally, I
cherish them as you venture forth boldly and faithfully. I
leave you with the biblical blessing from numbers six Iva
Hashem vishmerechra Yeah Heir hashempanave eleven ye sa hashempanavelera.
Speaker 1 (26:23):
Salon.
Speaker 6 (26:25):
May the Lord bless you and keep you. May the
Lord make his face shine upon you. May he be
gracious to you, made the Lord turn his face towards
you and give you peace.
Speaker 1 (26:36):
Amen. You can listen to the Chosen People with Isle
Exstein add free by downloading and subscribing to the pray
dot Com app today. This prey dog Com production is
only made possible by our dedicated team of creative talents.
Steve Katina, Max Bard, Zach Shellavaga and Ben Gammon are
(26:56):
the executive producers of The Chosen People with yile Xin
edited by Alberto Avilla, narrated by Paul Coltofianu. Characters are
voiced by Jonathan Gotten, Aaron Salvado, Sarah Seltz, Mike Reagan,
Stephen Ringwold, Sylvia Zaradoc, Thomas Copeland Junior, Rosanna Pilcher, and
(27:16):
the opening prayer is voiced by John Moore. Music by
Andrew Morgan Smith, written by Aaron Salvato, bre Rosalie and
Chris Baig. Special thanks to Bishop Paul Lanier, Robin van Ettin,
kayleb Burrows, Jocelyn Fuller, and the team at International Fellowship
of Christians and Jews. You can hear more prey dot
(27:36):
Com productions on the Prey dot Com app available on
the Apple App Store and Google play Store. If you
enjoyed The Chosen People with Yeile Eckstein, please rate and
leave a review.
Previously on the Chosen people. A flock of misfits gathered
under the staff of a shepherd who knew what it
was to be cast aside. These men were his flock.
Now not sheep, but six hundred souls, and by the
grace of God, he would be their shepherd.
Speaker 2 (00:21):
I come from Callia. The Philistines have overrun the city.
They burned the farms and broke through the gates. Be
taken home, Swimen children, everything the Eldest sent me to
find you. Saul has not answered our cries. We begged
him for eight days ago, and still nothing. They said,
if anyone would come, it would be you. We need
(00:43):
a savior.
Speaker 3 (00:45):
My brothers.
Speaker 4 (00:47):
I know many of you have no reason to fight
for this land. This is the land they cast you out.
But today the Lord has called you to stand for
those who would never stand for you.
Speaker 3 (01:00):
You're the wall, but the wars of this house.
Speaker 5 (01:03):
Remember what it means to betray the anointed King.
Speaker 1 (01:07):
David's heart caved in his chest. The very people they
had saved would betray them to save themselves. So they
fled into the night, six hundred souls, stumbling through fields
and gullies, tripping over stones, and tangled roots. The joy
(01:28):
of their victory had turned to ash on their tongues.
Speaker 6 (01:34):
Shello, my friends, from here in the holy Land of Israel.
I'm ya l Extein with the International Fellowship of Christians
and Jews, and welcome to the Chosen People. Each day
we'll hear a dramatic story inspired by the Bible, stories
filled with timeless lessons of faith, love, and the meaning
of life. Through Israel's story, we will find this truth
(01:57):
that we are all chosen for something great.
Speaker 5 (02:00):
So take a moment.
Speaker 6 (02:02):
Today to follow the podcast. If you're feeling extra grateful
for these stories, we would love it if you left
us a review. I read every single one of them,
and if you're interested in hearing more about the prophetic,
life saving work of the Fellowship, you can visit IFCJ
dot org. Let's begin.
Speaker 1 (02:27):
David sat outside the mouth of the cave, the wind
curling through the rocks like a sigh from the earth itself.
The sky was bleeding out in the west, streaked with
red and copper and gold. There was a wildness to
it that David loved, a beauty that seemed careless and
(02:48):
perfect all at once.
Speaker 3 (02:51):
The heavens declare the glory of God. The firmament shows
his handiwork.
Speaker 1 (02:58):
The sun dip low of as if swallowed by the earth,
and David returned to the cave. Inside his men were
bedding down for the night, sharpening blades and huddling close
to the fire. Smoke clung to the damp stone walls,
mingling with the smell of sweat and cooked meat. It
(03:20):
wasn't much of a home, but it was what they had.
David moved from fire to fire, laying a hand on
each man's shoulder, speaking quiet words of comfort. David then
found his own corner deep inside the cave. He lay down,
closed his eyes and tried to summon the sunset back
(03:41):
into his mind. Sleep came slowly. It was some time
deep in the night when David stirred, sensing a shadow
above him. His hand found the hilt of his sword
before his eyes were even open. The blade flashed in
the firelight. As David leapt to his.
Speaker 3 (03:59):
Fat who goes there, name yourself?
Speaker 1 (04:03):
The figure stepped back, hands raised in surrender, his face
still hidden beneath the hood.
Speaker 7 (04:09):
There are fools who walk willingly into the lion's den.
Speaker 1 (04:12):
David's sword clattered to the ground, as he stepped forward,
embracing the man like a brother.
Speaker 3 (04:19):
Long lost, Jonathan Jonathan.
Speaker 1 (04:24):
They held each other for a moment before Jonathan stepped back.
I scanning his friend from the head to toe.
Speaker 7 (04:31):
It looked like Doug.
Speaker 3 (04:34):
I often feel like Doug. How did you find me?
Speaker 7 (04:38):
SLA's cut wind of your location. We'll probably march soon.
Speaker 3 (04:43):
When will this madness end?
Speaker 7 (04:46):
Saw won't stop. You can't stop. It's like a fever
in his blood. He talks to himself now, muttering your name,
like a curse and a prayer, all at once.
Speaker 1 (04:56):
David swallowed hard. He had prayed for sare evere night
since his exile began, but with each new story, his
prayers grew heavier with doubt.
Speaker 3 (05:07):
What of Michael does she ask about me?
Speaker 7 (05:10):
Ah, David, My sister is young, and my father hates you.
There's no way he'd allow Michael to stay wedded to
the son of Jesse.
Speaker 3 (05:21):
What did Saul do?
Speaker 7 (05:23):
Saul has given Michael's hand to another Palty, son of Laish,
wealthy Benjamine, nobleman funding much of Saul's escapades.
Speaker 3 (05:33):
He's taken everything.
Speaker 7 (05:35):
Don't give Saul more space in your mind than he's worth.
Can you say that he's the reason I'm here on surface, Yes,
but he's not the true why, and you know it.
Speaker 4 (05:45):
I'm too tired for your philosophizing, Jonathan.
Speaker 3 (05:48):
Look around you.
Speaker 4 (05:49):
I've been sleeping on rocks for months.
Speaker 7 (05:52):
You're not seeing the bigger picture.
Speaker 1 (05:53):
David grabbed Jonathan by the tunic and pressed him against
the stone. Jonathan didn't flinch. He only gribbed David's wrists hard,
reminding him that he wouldn't be easy in a fight.
Speaker 4 (06:07):
Don't try to enlighten me, you spoiled prince. I know
the big picture. I'm the peasant son of a herder
who forgot his place. These caves are where I belong.
Saul's reminded me of that.
Speaker 7 (06:19):
Stop feeling sorry for yourself and wake up.
Speaker 8 (06:21):
Wake up to what you may be away from the
sheets of a polished palace chamber, but lying here in
the dirt, you're still more than a king than Saul
will ever be.
Speaker 1 (06:31):
David's eyes widened at that. The words hit. Jonathan stepped
closer and placed his hands on David's neck. He looked
at him earnestly, with the affection that pierced beyond the
bonds of blood. And marriage.
Speaker 7 (06:46):
You've drawn brave men from every tribe to unite under you.
You've protected the people, Saul. They hunt you to the
ends of the earth, but God will shield you just
as he always has. You'ven dressed and rags. You look
more like a king than he ever did. You will
sit on the throne, David, and when that day comes,
(07:07):
I will stand beside you, sword in hand, fighting for
the heart of our people.
Speaker 1 (07:11):
David turned away to wipe his eyes, but Jonathan saw
the tears all the same.
Speaker 3 (07:18):
Sorry, I've called you a spoiled prince.
Speaker 7 (07:21):
Sorry I called you a whiney child.
Speaker 3 (07:23):
You didn't call me a whiney child.
Speaker 7 (07:25):
I thought it, then thought about hitting you with the
hilt of my sword.
Speaker 1 (07:30):
Together they laughed and swore the old oath again, a
covenant forged between brothers, unshaken by war, exile, all the
madness of a king. Jonathan stood and drew his hood
once more.
Speaker 7 (07:46):
Sal's men are closer than you think. Moose silk.
Speaker 1 (07:49):
They embraced one last time, and Jonathan slipped into the shadows,
leaving David alone once more. David led his men south
into the wilder of Ngadee, where the air was fresh
with wild flowers. The damp earth beside the river gave
way beneath their feet. After so many days of running
(08:11):
through jagged hills and barren wastes, Engade felt like a
sliver of Eden. They set their fires deep within the cave,
far from prying eyes. Saul marched through the wilderness like
a man chasing shadows. Three thousand men rode at his back,
(08:34):
the best of Israel's warriors, Yet none could silence the
voices gnawing at his mind.
Speaker 9 (08:41):
The desert has swallowed deepd all. He's out there somewhere,
laughing at you. He's mocking you. They're all mocking you.
Speaker 1 (09:02):
Every time Saul thought he had him cornered, the boy vanished,
as if the very earth conspired to hide him. The
king could feel his mind unraveling thread by thread. At night,
he lay awake, staring into the blackness of his tent,
listening to the wind whistled through the rocks like mocking laughter.
(09:24):
Then there was the voice, the incessant drip of venom,
poisoning his mind and resolve.
Speaker 9 (09:33):
As long as Devid's out there.
Speaker 5 (09:40):
You're never safe. Your men conspire against you. They'll leave,
they'll leave you free. For him.
Speaker 9 (09:57):
You need to cut that brab like a fish.
Speaker 1 (10:00):
Saul and his men rode through the dry, cracked wastes
of Mound, over the ridges, and through the valleys until
they reached the forest of Engeddie. The land was different here,
lush and green, with waterfalls that tumbled from the cliffs
like silver ribbons. Saul sat on a rock outside his tent,
(10:22):
staring into the trees, his spear resting across his lap.
He felt weary to his bones, as if his very
soul had been carved out. He needed to be alone.
Speaker 10 (10:36):
I am going to the river. Do not follow me.
I shall return when I am ready.
Speaker 1 (10:45):
He walked into the woods. The deeper he went, the
cooler the air became. He followed the winding stream, past boulders,
slick with moss, and trees stretching skyward like sentinels, until
he found a place where the river widened into a deep,
clear pool. Saul stripped off his royal robes and tossed
(11:08):
them onto a rock. He stepped into the water, feeling
the cold bite at his skin. Washing away the dust
and sweat of the hunt, He dipped his head beneath
the surface. The silence swallowing him whole. For a moment,
there was nothing, no voices, no whispers, no conspiracies, just
(11:31):
water and breath. He surfaced, blinking against the sunlight, running
a hand through his wet hair, his limbs ached, his
body worn from sleepless nights, from the madness gnawing at
his mind like a hungry wolf. Saul dressed himself and
wandered up the river bank towards the mouth of a vast,
(11:55):
yawning cave. The king stepped inside, leaning back against the
stone wall, closing his eyes, his head ached, he let
himself drift. As he drifted into an uneasy slumber, he
did not know that deep within the cave, hidden in
the shadows, David and his men were watching, waiting. He's here, David.
(12:23):
David turned his three most trusted men, crouched in the
shadows behind him, Habishi, Jashabine, and Beniah. Saul sleeps at
the mouth of the cave. Didn't the Lord tell you he.
Speaker 4 (12:37):
Would give your enemy into your hands.
Speaker 3 (12:39):
This is what he meant.
Speaker 1 (12:41):
The old fool has delivered himself to you, and now
you can.
Speaker 3 (12:45):
Do what you please.
Speaker 1 (12:47):
David said nothing. Habishi placed a steady hand on his shoulder,
his voice low and urgent.
Speaker 3 (12:55):
This is your moment, David.
Speaker 4 (12:57):
You could end the chase, end the ex end him,
slit his throat, put an end to this madness.
Speaker 3 (13:06):
Once over all.
Speaker 1 (13:07):
Beniah handed David a dagger. David gripped the blade, still silent.
He felt the weight of it, the certainty in its
sharp edge.
Speaker 3 (13:18):
Kill Saul. Is it really that easy?
Speaker 1 (13:22):
It could be just one stroke of the blade and
we can all go home. You will be king Abish
I wasn't wrong, But was he truly right? David could
end it? But should he? Slowly he rose to his
feet and move toward the cave's mouth, the dagger pulsing
(13:46):
in his grip like a living thing.
Speaker 3 (13:49):
It is so truly different from Gormaith.
Speaker 1 (13:52):
The throne of Israel, the armies of God, the love
of the people, all of it would be here with
a single stroke of the blade. No more running, no
more hiding in caves like a common bandit, no more
fearing the next dawn. He could be free, He could
(14:13):
be king. David's breath was steady as he stepped into
the slanting light. Saul lay against the rock, his back
to the cave wall. His chin dipped against his chest
in sleep. David had not seen him in months, but
now so close he hardly recognized the man who had
(14:35):
once been his king. Saul had aged. The once great
warrior of Israel, looked gaunt, his beard streaked with gray,
his lips slightly parted in restless slumber. The lines of
his face had deepened, carved by sleepless nights and the
slow decay of his own mind. David knelt beside him,
(15:00):
dagger poised.
Speaker 3 (15:02):
It would be.
Speaker 1 (15:03):
Easy, a single stroke, a slit across the throat, swift
and silent. Saul wouldn't even wake before he was gone.
David stared at the king's neck. The pulse was faint, steady,
the very breath of the man who had tried to
kill him. David's fingers trembled on the hilt. His heart
(15:27):
pounded against his ribs, each beat whispering a choice in him.
Speaker 5 (15:34):
In this you can keep.
Speaker 1 (15:38):
David's blade did not move. He closed his eyes. Then,
without a sound, he lowered his dagger to saw. He
brought the dagger down not against flesh, but against the
cloth of his robe, slicing a small sliver from the edge.
(15:59):
The fabric fell weightless in his palm, yet heavier than
any sword. He stared at it breathless, his hands shaking.
Then without a word, David turned and disappeared back into
the darkness of the cave, leaving Saul to his restless dreams.
(16:20):
David stumbled back into the darkness of the cave, his
breath uneven, his hands shaking. He could still feel the
weight of the blade in his grip, the cold steel
meant for Saul's throat. Instead, all he held was the
torn fragment of the king's robe, fluttering in his fingers
like a broken promise. He leaned against the jagged stone
(16:44):
wall and let out a shuddering breath. Then, without warning,
the grief overtook him. Silent sobs racked his chest as
he pounded his fist against his ribs, as if to
beat the weakness from his heart. His men surrounded him,
their faces grim with expectation.
Speaker 7 (17:04):
Did you do it? He's the king dead?
Speaker 1 (17:07):
David held up the torn cloth, his fingers curling around
it as though it might disappear.
Speaker 3 (17:14):
I shouldn't have even touched him. Here is the Lord's anointed.
Speaker 4 (17:18):
I should never have raised a hand against him.
Speaker 1 (17:21):
What are you talking about?
Speaker 7 (17:23):
If you didn't even kill him. What is this self
loathing over a scrap of cloth?
Speaker 1 (17:28):
Benaiah spat onto the cave floor.
Speaker 8 (17:31):
Sal's the reason we are hunted like animals. He's the
reason we live in the shadows and sleep on stone.
The man would gun you with the second thought, yet
you weep over his robes.
Speaker 1 (17:43):
David lifted his gaze, and when he spoke, his voice
was iron.
Speaker 3 (17:48):
He is the Lord's anointed.
Speaker 4 (17:49):
My tears are not for hidden, They are for the
part of me that even considered vengeance.
Speaker 1 (17:55):
His hand tightened around the fabric.
Speaker 3 (17:57):
Vengeance belongs to the Lord.
Speaker 4 (18:00):
I will not take his life so that I may
be lifted up. I will not ascend the throne by
blood and treachery.
Speaker 5 (18:07):
You understand what kind of thing.
Speaker 2 (18:10):
I am?
Speaker 3 (18:10):
Not a man of loove?
Speaker 7 (18:12):
Yes you are.
Speaker 2 (18:13):
We all are.
Speaker 3 (18:14):
We shed blood in defense of our nation.
Speaker 7 (18:16):
Because Saul had abandoned it.
Speaker 8 (18:19):
He should have decayed, David, but he is here and
I if.
Speaker 4 (18:24):
I can't honor them, and what does the throne even mean?
Speaker 1 (18:27):
Beniah's jaw twitched. He wanted to curse Saul's name and
tell David that he was too noble for his own good.
But David raised a finger to.
Speaker 4 (18:38):
Them, Swear to me now, none of you will harm
the King, none of you will disturb him in his slumber.
Speaker 1 (18:45):
There was hesitation, but slowly, one by one they nodded.
Saul slept on, unaware that death had been so close
that it had stood over him, and then turned away.
David remained in the shadows, watching how many reasons could
(19:06):
he find to kill him a thousand more? And yet,
watching the old king stir in his sleep, David did
not feel hatred. He felt something worse, pity. Saul stirred.
Then he woke. The king blinked against the light, stretching
(19:27):
his aching limbs. He ran a hand through his grain beard, sighed,
and stepped outside into the morning sun. He knelt by
the stream, cupping the water in his hands, splashing it
over his face, and then David stepped out from the shadows.
Speaker 3 (19:46):
My Lord King Saul.
Speaker 1 (19:49):
Saul jolted up, whirling his swords scraping from its scabbard.
His eyes found David, and for a moment there was
nothing but raw fear ury in them. His knuckles whitened
around the grip of his blade. David's men stood behind
him in the shadows, wanting to bounce, but heeding David's
(20:10):
orders to stay you. David met his gaze. He saw
the rage there, the hatred burning just beneath the surface.
Slowly he drew his own sword. Saul shifted his feet
and charged. David rolled his neck back and drew a
(20:31):
deep breath. Saul was coming for his head. Saul swung
downward first, but David dodged it and slid to his right.
Saul turned and jabbed twice, once at David's neck and
then down to his ribs. David parried each advance, twisted
and jumped backward to create distance between them.
Speaker 5 (20:53):
Fight me, I am man.
Speaker 1 (20:56):
David did not move to attack. Instead, he lifted the
blade high, then threw it down at Saul's feet. The
metal clattered against the stones, and David took a step back.
Speaker 3 (21:09):
I will not fight you, my king, neither will my men.
Speaker 1 (21:13):
Saul narrowed his eyes and saw David's men slowly creep
from the shadows. None of them had their swords drawn.
Speaker 3 (21:21):
What kind of trick is this?
Speaker 1 (21:23):
David exhaled his breath, steady, his heart hammering against his ribs.
Speaker 4 (21:30):
Who has whispered lies into your ears? Who has told
you that I seek your life.
Speaker 1 (21:36):
He reached into his cloak and withdrew the torn piece
of fabric.
Speaker 4 (21:41):
Look at this, Look at the hymn of your robe.
Today the Lord delivered you into my hands. Some of
my men urged me to kill you, but I would not.
I spared your life.
Speaker 1 (21:54):
Saul stared at the fabric, as if seeing his own
madness laid bare before him. His grip on his sword slackened.
Speaker 11 (22:03):
You were like a father to me, more of a
father than mine ever was. I've loved you, and yet
you hunt me like a wild beast. I held a
blade inches from your throat, and I did not take
your life. Let the lords judge between you and me.
Speaker 5 (22:21):
Let him be the one to decide my fate.
Speaker 4 (22:24):
But as for me, I will never raise a hand
against you.
Speaker 1 (22:28):
Then, with slow deliberation, David fell to his knees. He
bowed his head, stretched his hands outward, and pressed his
forehead into the dirt. He did not move, and he
did not breathe. He waited for a word, for a blade,
(22:48):
for judgment, and then Saul wept. It came suddenly, violently,
as though the damn of his soul had finally burst.
His sword slipped from his grasp and clattered to the ground.
His shoulders shook as he collapsed to his knees, his
(23:09):
face buried in his hands.
Speaker 3 (23:15):
Is that you, my son?
Speaker 1 (23:21):
David lifted his head. He saw the tears streaming down
Saul's face, saw the anguish carved into the lines of
his features.
Speaker 10 (23:32):
You are more righteous than I. For you you have
repaid my evil but kindness this day. You have shown
why the Lord has chosen you. Israel will be yours, David.
(23:53):
It as clear as the sun in the sky. You
will be king.
Speaker 1 (23:58):
David's breath hitched the words Saul's own lips had spoken them.
Whatever comes will come, he thought. Saul stood, wiping at
his eyes.
Speaker 10 (24:12):
Swear to me, when your day comes, when the throne
is yours, do not cut off my descendants, do not
erase the name but my father.
Speaker 1 (24:26):
David looked him in the eye, wary of Saul's sudden
change and demeanor.
Speaker 3 (24:32):
You have my word.
Speaker 1 (24:33):
Saul exhaled a long breath. He stepped forward, hesitant.
Speaker 10 (24:40):
Returned with me to the palace. David, return to my daughter,
to your home.
Speaker 9 (24:48):
Perhaps there may yet be peace between us.
Speaker 1 (24:51):
David took a step back. He wanted to believe Saul's words.
He saw the sincerity in his eyes, but he had
also seen how quickly Saul's mind could shift, how easily
his paranoia could consume him again.
Speaker 3 (25:08):
I will remain here, my king.
Speaker 4 (25:10):
If my country calls upon me to fight for its safety,
I will come. But I believe there's still work to
be done between you and the Lord.
Speaker 3 (25:19):
Before I return.
Speaker 1 (25:21):
Saul's face fell, I see, the king said no more,
but David could see a slight shift in his eyes.
Something sinister was still there. He only nodded and turned away,
disappearing into the trees, back to his men. David watched
(25:42):
him go. He lingered for a long moment before retreating
back into the caves.
Speaker 6 (25:54):
If your faith has been kindled by this podcast and
it has affected your life, we'd love it if you
left her review. We read them, and me personally, I
cherish them as you venture forth boldly and faithfully. I
leave you with the biblical blessing from numbers six Iva
Hashem vishmerechra Yeah Heir hashempanave eleven ye sa hashempanavelera.
Speaker 1 (26:23):
Salon.
Speaker 6 (26:25):
May the Lord bless you and keep you. May the
Lord make his face shine upon you. May he be
gracious to you, made the Lord turn his face towards
you and give you peace.
Speaker 1 (26:36):
Amen. You can listen to the Chosen People with Isle
Exstein add free by downloading and subscribing to the pray
dot Com app today. This prey dog Com production is
only made possible by our dedicated team of creative talents.
Steve Katina, Max Bard, Zach Shellavaga and Ben Gammon are
(26:56):
the executive producers of The Chosen People with yile Xin
edited by Alberto Avilla, narrated by Paul Coltofianu. Characters are
voiced by Jonathan Gotten, Aaron Salvado, Sarah Seltz, Mike Reagan,
Stephen Ringwold, Sylvia Zaradoc, Thomas Copeland Junior, Rosanna Pilcher, and
(27:16):
the opening prayer is voiced by John Moore. Music by
Andrew Morgan Smith, written by Aaron Salvato, bre Rosalie and
Chris Baig. Special thanks to Bishop Paul Lanier, Robin van Ettin,
kayleb Burrows, Jocelyn Fuller, and the team at International Fellowship
of Christians and Jews. You can hear more prey dot
(27:36):
Com productions on the Prey dot Com app available on
the Apple App Store and Google play Store. If you
enjoyed The Chosen People with Yeile Eckstein, please rate and
leave a review.
Popular Podcasts
Crime Junkie
Does hearing about a true crime case always leave you scouring the internet for the truth behind the story? Dive into your next mystery with Crime Junkie. Every Monday, join your host Ashley Flowers as she unravels all the details of infamous and underreported true crime cases with her best friend Brit Prawat. From cold cases to missing persons and heroes in our community who seek justice, Crime Junkie is your destination for theories and stories you won’t hear anywhere else. Whether you're a seasoned true crime enthusiast or new to the genre, you'll find yourself on the edge of your seat awaiting a new episode every Monday. If you can never get enough true crime... Congratulations, you’ve found your people. Follow to join a community of Crime Junkies! Crime Junkie is presented by audiochuck Media Company.
24/7 News: The Latest
The latest news in 4 minutes updated every hour, every day.
Stuff You Should Know
If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.