What is the meaning of 1 Samuel 20:7? If he says, ‘Good,’ “If he says, ‘Good,’” (1 Samuel 20:7a) sets the simple test Jonathan proposes. A calm, gracious response from Saul would signal that his heart has softened. • Earlier, Saul could speak kindly about David when God’s Spirit restrained him (1 Samuel 19:6). • Proverbs 15:1 reminds us, “A gentle answer turns away wrath,” underscoring how a peaceful word reveals a peaceful heart. • Jesus later observes that “out of the overflow of the heart the mouth speaks” (Matthew 12:34), so Saul’s words will mirror what lies inside him. then your servant is safe, “then your servant is safe” (1 Samuel 20:7b) expresses David’s confidence that God can use even Saul’s attitude to protect him. • Jonathan calls himself David’s “servant” again (cf. 1 Samuel 20:8), highlighting their covenant loyalty. • Psalm 4:8 captures David’s outlook: “In peace I will lie down and sleep, for You alone, O LORD, make me dwell in safety.” • When a ruler acts justly, his subjects rejoice (Proverbs 29:2). A benign reply from Saul would restore peace to the kingdom and to David’s life. but if he is enraged, “but if he is enraged” (1 Samuel 20:7c) anticipates the hot-tempered outbursts that had become Saul’s pattern. • Saul’s fury had already driven him to hurl spears at David (1 Samuel 18:11; 19:9-10). • Jonathan had witnessed that rage firsthand (1 Samuel 20:30-33). • Proverbs 14:29 warns, “Whoever is hot-tempered exalts folly,” describing exactly what Saul exhibits when jealous anger rules him instead of the Lord. you will know he has evil intentions. “you will know he has evil intentions” (1 Samuel 20:7d) gives Jonathan the purpose of the test: discernment. • Saul had already ordered David’s death once (1 Samuel 19:1); a fresh surge of rage would confirm that murderous plot. • Proverbs 12:5 contrasts “the thoughts of the righteous” with “the counsels of the wicked,” and Saul’s plotting places him in the latter group. • Romans 12:9 urges believers to “hate what is evil; cling to what is good,” the very choice Jonathan must make concerning his father’s scheme. summary 1 Samuel 20:7 offers a straightforward yardstick: Saul’s immediate reaction will unmask his heart. • A calm “Good” would mean David can stay; divine restraint still tempers the king. • An angry eruption would expose ongoing evil, warning Jonathan to move David to safety. The verse teaches that words and temper reveal inner motives, and it reassures us that God provides discernment and protection for those who trust Him. |
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