What does 1 Samuel 20:26 teach about assumptions without seeking truth? Setting the Scene David and Jonathan have secretly agreed on a signal to confirm whether Saul intends harm. When David deliberately misses Saul’s new-moon feast, Saul notices the empty seat. Key Verse (1 Samuel 20:26) “Yet Saul said nothing that day, for he thought, ‘It is a coincidence; he must be ceremonially unclean—surely he is unclean.’” Observations About Saul’s Assumption • Saul notices David’s absence but does not ask for verification. • He constructs an explanation that fits his expectations: ceremonial uncleanness (cf. Leviticus 7:20–21). • “Surely” reveals certainty without evidence. • His silence lets the false assumption harden, setting the stage for anger and violence the next day (vv. 30–33). Lessons on Assumptions and Truth-Seeking • Assumptions fill gaps with imagination, not information. • A wrong heart posture—jealousy, pride, fear—feeds hasty conclusions (Proverbs 14:29; James 1:20). • Failure to verify invites deeper sin: suspicion → wrath → attempted murder (1 Samuel 20:33). • Scripture commends diligent inquiry before judgment (Proverbs 18:13; Deuteronomy 13:14). • Godly leadership demands truth-seeking, not guess-making (Exodus 23:1; John 7:24). Supporting Scriptures • Proverbs 18:13: “He who answers before he hears—this is folly and disgrace to him.” • John 7:24: “Stop judging by outward appearance, and judge with righteous judgment.” • James 1:19: “Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger.” • Proverbs 25:2: “It is the glory of God to conceal a matter and the glory of kings to search it out.” Application for Today • Pause when details are missing; gather facts before forming opinions. • Examine motives—jealousy, insecurity, fear—before attributing motives to others. • Speak only after careful verification; silence born of assumption is no virtue. • Cultivate a habit of asking, listening, and confirming, reflecting Christ’s love for truth (John 14:6). |
    |