1 Samuel

The book of 1 Samuel.

18. Saul's Jealousy

1 Samuel 18:6 As they were coming home, when David returned from striking down the Philistine [Goliath], the women came out of all the cities of Israel, singing and dancing, to meet King Saul, with tambourines, with songs of joy, and with musical instruments. 7 And the women sang to one another as they celebrated,

“Saul has struck down his thousands,

    and David his ten thousands.”

8 And Saul was very angry, and this saying displeased him. He said, “They have ascribed to David ten thousands, and to me they have ascribed thousands, and what more can he have but the kingdom?” 9 And Saul eyed David from that day on.

If we receive God’s favor and have victories in life, that will excite the envy of those whose hearts are far from God. David was forced to live as an outlaw until Saul was finally slain by the Amalekites. Even though David repeatedly showed mercy to him when he had opportunities to strike him down, Saul refused to give up the kingship to the one chosen by God. Only after Saul’s death did David finally take the crown that had been promised to him from his youth.

As the chosen one, David was a heroic king and a man after God’s own heart. Although the people had demanded a king for sinful reasons, God gave them a great one in David. His reign was glorious. What made him so great besides slaying Goliath? He conquered Jerusalem and brought the Ark of the Covenant into it. Thus it is known as David’s City. He led the people of Israel against many hostile surrounding tribes and either destroyed them or made them subservient, bringing peace. He was not just talented in war but also in music, leading the people in worship and composing many songs that are still sung by Christians to this day.

Finally, God made a covenant with David promising that David’s lineage would be given the eternal throne. David’s descendant would build a house for God’s name.