After defeating the Philistine giant Goliath, David became popular in Israel. The people would begin to sing his praises and view him as a mighty warrior. King Saul even initially admired David, but it wouldn’t be long before he began to resent him. He would become an enemy of David and attempt to destroy him.
In 1 Samuel 18:1-19, some critical things occur in David’s life. First, he forms a friendship with Jonathan (1 Samuel 18:1-4). Second, he gains success as a military leader of Saul’s army (1 Samuel 18:5-7). Third, his success causes Saul to become jealous and bitter (1 Samuel 18:8-19).
How did David overcome having the king of Israel as an enemy?
He has a great friend who sticks by him.
- Jonathan was one of the sons of Saul. He wasn’t jealous, corrupt, and insecure like Saul. He was a man of character, faith, and integrity.
- Jonathan became David’s best friend (1 Samuel 18:1). He loved David as himself and sought to protect him from his wicked father.
- Jonathan accepted God’s will for David to be the next king (1 Samuel 20:1-17).
- Do you have a friend like Jonathan? Do you have a friend who will stick by you, strengthen you, and help you serve the Lord (Proverbs 18:24)?
He has a great God who was determined to make him successful.
- Saul’s jealousy and evil schemes could not stop God from protecting and exalting David (1 Samuel 18:5, 10-14, 28-29).
- God was responsible for David going from a shepherd boy to a well-respected warrior in Israel!
- God would never leave David’s side. He would stay close to him through his life’s high and low moments.
He has great trust in God.
- David expressed his trust in God in many of the Psalms. Even when it seemed like he was forsaken, David knew that God was with him and would vindicate him in His time (Psalm 22:1-24).
- Appreciating David’s trust in the Lord helps us better understand why he refused to kill Saul when he had the opportunity. It also helps us know how he could preserve during many dark days as king.
Are you like David?
- Do you trust God? Do you trust God in both the high and low moments of life?
- Do you have humility? David never let success go to his head (1 Samuel 18:18-23). He never sought credit, glory, and high esteem from others.
- Do you seek God’s approval? David found favor with God because his chief concern was pleasing and bringing Him glory!
Conclusion:
Do you currently have the Lord’s approval? Are you living in complete faith, trust, and obedience to God?