David's return to Saul's service is a significant event in the biblical narrative, illustrating themes of divine providence, humility, and the complex relationship between David and King Saul. This event is primarily recorded in the First Book of Samuel, which details the rise of David and the decline of Saul as Israel's first king.

Context and Background

David, the youngest son of Jesse from Bethlehem, was initially introduced to King Saul's court as a skilled harpist. Saul, tormented by an evil spirit from the LORD, found relief in David's music (1 Samuel 16:14-23). David's musical talent and the Spirit of the LORD upon him (1 Samuel 16:13) made him a favored servant in Saul's household.

David and Goliath

David's return to Saul's service is closely linked to his victory over Goliath, the Philistine giant. This event, recorded in 1 Samuel 17, showcases David's faith and courage. After defeating Goliath with a sling and a stone, David gained national recognition and favor in Saul's eyes. Saul inquired about David's family, and David was brought before the king, holding the head of Goliath (1 Samuel 17:57-58).

Saul's Jealousy and David's Continued Service

Despite David's growing popularity, Saul's attitude towards him became increasingly complex. Initially, Saul loved David greatly and made him his armor-bearer (1 Samuel 16:21). However, as David's military successes grew, so did Saul's jealousy. The women of Israel sang, "Saul has slain his thousands, and David his tens of thousands" (1 Samuel 18:7), which incited Saul's anger and fear of David.

Saul's jealousy led to multiple attempts on David's life, yet David continued to serve Saul faithfully. David's humility and respect for Saul's position as the LORD's anointed king are evident throughout this period. Despite Saul's hostility, David refrained from retaliating against the king, demonstrating his trust in God's timing and justice.

Jonathan's Friendship and Michal's Love

During his service to Saul, David formed a deep friendship with Jonathan, Saul's son. Their covenantal relationship is a testament to loyalty and love, transcending familial and political tensions (1 Samuel 18:1-4). Jonathan's support and protection of David were crucial during Saul's attempts to kill him.

David also married Michal, Saul's daughter, further intertwining his life with the royal family. Michal's love for David and her actions to save him from Saul's wrath (1 Samuel 19:11-17) highlight the personal and familial conflicts that arose from Saul's deteriorating mental state and David's rising prominence.

David's Departure

Ultimately, Saul's relentless pursuit forced David to flee from his service, marking the beginning of his life as a fugitive. This period of David's life is characterized by his reliance on God for protection and guidance, as he navigated the challenges of being anointed as the future king while respecting Saul's current reign.

David's return to Saul's service and the subsequent events underscore the themes of divine election, human frailty, and the unfolding of God's plan for Israel through David's eventual kingship.