What does Eliab's accusation teach about judging others' motives? Setting the Scene 1 Samuel 17 places Israel’s army on one hill, the Philistines on another, and young David delivering provisions to his brothers. Verse 28 records the eldest brother’s harsh response. Eliab’s Accusation (1 Samuel 17:28) “When Eliab, David’s oldest brother, heard David speaking with the men, Eliab burned with anger at him and said, ‘Why have you come down here? And with whom did you leave those few sheep in the wilderness? I know your pride and the wickedness of your heart—you have come down to see the battle!’ ” What Eliab Got Wrong About Motives • Assumed the worst: labeled David’s heart “pride” and “wickedness.” • Ignored David’s proven faithfulness with the sheep (17:34–37). • Forgot God’s earlier choice of David (16:7, 12–13). • Let anger drive interpretation: “burned with anger” precedes his judgment. Why Judging Motives Is So Dangerous • Only God sees the heart (1 Samuel 16:7; Proverbs 21:2). • Human perspective is limited and often colored by emotion or jealousy. • Misjudging motives can discourage faithful believers and hinder God’s work. Scriptures That Reinforce the Caution • Matthew 7:1–5 — remove the plank before addressing a speck. • John 7:24 — “Do not judge by appearance, but judge with righteous judgment.” • 1 Corinthians 4:5 — “the Lord… will disclose the motives of hearts.” • James 4:11–12 — speaking against a brother equals judging the lawgiver Himself. • Romans 14:10–13 — each stands before God’s judgment seat, not ours. Practical Takeaways • Pause when irritation rises; anger clouds discernment. • Ask questions rather than assume hidden intent. • Measure words against the reality that God alone reads hearts. • Encourage instead of accuse; build up faith when someone steps forward. • Remember God may be working through unlikely people—just as He used David for Israel’s deliverance. |
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