David

May 15

1 Samuel 20:17-23, 33-40

An arrow for David

Saul had arranged a feast for one of the regular celebrations. David was expected to attend the feast, but instead he decided to hide in the fields for a few days. He said to Jonathan, “If your father asks where I am, tell him that I have gone home to Bethlehem.” Then they arranged that Jonathan would go to the field and give David a signal that would show whether it was safe for David to return to Saul, or whether he should run away.

When Saul, who had planned to kill David, found out that David was not at the feast he was furious. He shouted at Jonathan for being David’s friend and threw a spear at him. So Jonathan went out to where David was hiding and shot some arrows. Then he called to his servant, “Isn’t the arrow still further away? Hurry up!” These words were a sign to David that his life was in danger and that he should run for his life.

Why did David have to wait so long to become king?

Samuel had anointed David as the new leader of God’s people. David had proved his courage by defeating Goliath and winning many battles. He was also a respected leader and commander in the army. What is more, Samuel told Saul that God had rejected him as king of Israel.

Time was passing, and nothing seemed to be happening. What was the hold up?

As humans, we cannot know or understand God’s complete plan. Often we only see the obvious, not what God is doing to prepare the hearts of people. To prepare a heart that is faithful takes time. It may take years for God to bring about the changes that will make us ready to do the task He has planned for us.

Verse for today

Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. 1 Peter 5:6