“Once more war broke out, and David went out and fought the Philistines. He struck them with such force that they fled before him. 9 But an evil[a] spirit from the Lord came on Saul as he was sitting in his house with his spear in his hand. While David was playing the lyre, 10 Saul tried to pin him to the wall with his spear, but David eluded him as Saul drove the spear into the wall. That night David made good his escape.” 1 Samuel 19.8-10
This was not the first or last attempt on David’s life by King Saul. From reading the king’s history, we know he hates David, is jealous of him, and has an evil spirit resting upon him, causing him to sin. The assassination attempts continued up until Saul’s own death, but David never raised his hand to harm him.
The Lord saved David’s life this time, just as He would on other occasions. After eluding the spear thrown by Saul, David “made good on his escape.”
For some reason, I am reminded of the assassination attempt on now-President Donald Trump. The bullet that clipped his ear could have taken his life had it been only a fraction closer. Yet, he has gone on to lead well after this attempt. Similarly, President Ronald Reagan survived an assassination attempt and continued to lead the nation. Perhaps the threat of losing one’s life gives a person new perspective and motivation for the task ahead.
Jesus, however, was not spared from His execution. Unlike David or the presidents, He was sentenced to death by those who vehemently opposed Him. They publicly put Him on trial, falsely accusing Him of wrongdoing against God and the Jewish nation. Jesus died, yet He rose again three days later. His death brought life to all who believe.
The attempt to kill leaders is nothing new yet in David’s case, nothing Saul attempted could take away from God’s purpose for David to rule the nation. Same with presidents and same with the Christ. Even Jesus’ death however was necessary in order that we might receive forgiveness, redemption and grace.
As the saga of David and Saul continues, we will see the evil spirit guiding Saul in multiple ways. But in the end, God’s plan prevails.
Will you put your trust in the Lord? Allowing him to be the author and perfecter of your life in Jesus Christ?
“O Lord God, thank you for saving me. Thank you for your love and grace. Fill me with your power. Help me be the person you have called me to be and to run to you and from evil. I love you Lord and praise your name. For you are good and your love endures forever.” Amen