Introduction

The narrative of Saul's plot against David is a significant episode in the biblical account of Israel's early monarchy, illustrating themes of jealousy, divine favor, and the providential protection of God's anointed. This account is primarily found in the First Book of Samuel, chapters 18 through 26, and it highlights the deteriorating relationship between King Saul and David, the future king of Israel.

Background

David, the youngest son of Jesse, rose to prominence after his victory over Goliath, the Philistine giant. This victory, coupled with his subsequent successes in battle, earned him the admiration of the people and the favor of King Saul initially. However, as David's popularity grew, Saul's attitude shifted from favor to fear and 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 envy and suspicion.

Saul's Jealousy and Initial Attempts

Saul's jealousy manifested in several attempts to harm David. Initially, Saul tried to pin David to the wall with a spear while David played the harp to soothe Saul's troubled spirit (1 Samuel 18:10-11). Despite Saul's attempts, David eluded him, and his success only increased Saul's fear, as "the LORD was with David but had departed from Saul" (1 Samuel 18:12).

Marriage to Michal and Further Plots

In an attempt to ensnare David, Saul offered his daughter Michal in marriage, hoping that the bride price of one hundred Philistine foreskins would lead to David's death in battle. However, David succeeded and married Michal, further solidifying his position (1 Samuel 18:25-27). Saul's fear intensified as he realized that "the LORD was with David and that Michal, Saul's daughter, loved him" (1 Samuel 18:28).

Jonathan's Intervention

Saul's son, Jonathan, formed a deep friendship with David and intervened on his behalf. Jonathan warned David of Saul's intent to kill him and advocated for David before Saul, temporarily reconciling the two (1 Samuel 19:1-7). Despite this, Saul's hostility soon resurfaced.

Michal's Deception and David's Escape

Saul's determination to kill David led to a direct order to his servants and Jonathan to execute David. Michal, aware of her father's intentions, helped David escape by lowering him through a window and deceiving Saul's messengers with an idol in David's bed (1 Samuel 19:11-17).

David's Flight and Saul's Pursuit

David fled to Samuel at Ramah, where Saul's messengers, and eventually Saul himself, were overcome by the Spirit of God and prophesied, unable to capture David (1 Samuel 19:18-24). David then sought refuge with Ahimelech the priest and later among the Philistines, constantly evading Saul's pursuit.

The Wilderness Years

David's years in the wilderness were marked by Saul's relentless pursuit. Despite opportunities to kill Saul, David refrained, respecting Saul as the LORD's anointed. In the cave of Adullam and later in the Desert of Ziph, David spared Saul's life, demonstrating his integrity and trust in God's justice (1 Samuel 24:4-7, 26:9-11).

Conclusion

The account of Saul's plot against David is a profound narrative of divine providence and the testing of David's character. It underscores the themes of God's sovereignty, the consequences of disobedience, and the faithfulness required of those whom God calls to leadership.