I SAMUEL

The following comments are from Navigator's and Quiet Time Diary journals. One verse will be entered, then the comment, then the date.

1:11    And she (Hannah) vowed a vow, and said, O Lord of hosts, if thou wilt indeed look on the affliction of thine handmaid, and remember me, and not forget thine handmaid, but wilt give unto thine handmaid a man child, then I will give him unto the LORD all the days of his life, and there shall no razor come upon his head. KJV

    Hannah was devastated that Elkanah, her husband had children by his other wife, and not her. The other wife provoked her [verse 6] and I'm sure she felt useless and probably jealous of Peninnah, the other wife. Hannah had faith in her trusting that the Lord could give her the child she asked for. Vows should never be broken. (DRM 10/9/04)

1:13    As for Hannah, she was speaking in her heart, only her lips were moving, but her voice was not heard. So Eli thought she was drunk.

    Hannah was praying to the Lord God. She was so emotional in her prayer asking for a son, that her lips moved, and Eli the priest thought she was drunk.
    We (I) can come to wrong conclusions on what we see and hear. This is a good example. After Hannah explained to Eli what he saw (v. 15), all was made clear. Don't jump to conclusions until all the facts are known. (DRM 10/10/10)

1:14, 15    Then Eli said to her, "How long will you make yourself drunk? Put away your wine from you." 15But Hannah replied, "No, my lord, I am a woman oppressed in spirit; I have drunk neither wine nor strong drink, but I have poured out my soul before the LORD.

    Eli the priest (v. 9) got the wrong impression when Hannah was praying at the temple. Because Hannah's lips were moving when she prayed, Eli thought she was drunk.
    Thankfully, Hannah was able to tell Eli what really happened and the matter was settled.
    Too often today we jump to wrong conclusions when we judge someone by their outward appearance. Like Jesus, we are to look at the heart of a person - talk to them -  and understand them better before making any quick judgments. (DRM 2/1/14)

1:28    "So now I give him to the Lord. For his whole life he will be given over to the Lord." And he worshipped the Lord there.

    Hannah ( Samuel's mother) prayed to the Lord so she could have a baby. When the baby arrived she dedicated him to the Lord.
    In a similar manner, when we are "reborn" into the Lord's family, we have the desire to serve Him.
    I still hope that He will find something that I can do for Him. I just don't know yet! (DRM 5/9/87)

    Hannah kept Samuel until he was weaned, 2 or 3 years, then fulfilled her vow to give him to the Lord. She brought her first born son to Eli the priest, and he was to serve the Lord the rest of his life. This must have been a difficult time for Hannah, but she knew how important it was to fulfill the vow that she made. Eli had witnessed her vow [1:18] but did not know what it was.  When I pray and promise God I will do something, I MUST fulfill my promise! (DRM 10/10/04)

2:7    "The LORD makes poor and rich;
         He brings low, He also exalts."

    This is just one verse of "Hanna's Song of Thanksgiving." God is in control. A person who has a lot of money can suddenly lose it by any of several things that the Lord can do. The same thing can be done with a poor person who God can open doors for. God is in total control of our lives and it's a mistake to think otherwise. (DRM 10/11/10)

2:9    He will guard the feet of his saints, but the wicked will be silenced in darkness.

    The Lord really cares about those who trust in Him. He WILL direct our paths to follow Him. 
    Non-believers will not understand the paths that Christians follow because they do not know Him. (DRM 6/5/88)

2:30    Therefore the LORD God of Israel declares, 'I did indeed say that your house and the house of your father should walk before Me forever'; but now the LORD declares, 'Far be it from Me - for those who honor Me I will honor, and those who despise Me will be lightly esteemed.

    While this verse refers to Eli and his sons not honoring the Lord God and the future appointment of Samuel, this verse can also refer to us today.
    Those of us who honor and worship the Lord God=Jesus will be honored by the Lord in His actions toward them. The people who despise, ignore, or disagree with serving Him will also be "lightly esteemed" or treated the same way that they treat Him.
    It seems obvious to me that worshipping and honoring the Lord is far better. (DRM 9/17/12)

3:5    Then he [Samuel] ran to Eli and said, "Here I am, for you called me." But he said, "I did not call, lie down again." So he went and lay down.

    Samuel was just a boy when this happened (v. 1). The voice calling him was not Eli, the priest, but the Lord Himself. Since this was a rare occurrence (v. 1), Samuel didn't know His voice, not what to say.
    While the Holy Spirit was not in all believers in Old Testament times like He is today, the Lord did talk to His special people (e. g. prophets) throughout history to direct them.
    As Christians today, we also have to hear His voice for direction. We can hear Him through a Bible passage or as a still small voice during prayer. When I/we hear Him, be sure and answer, "Speak, LORD, for Your servant is listening," like Samuel did (v. 9). (DRM 10/31/16)

3:6    The LORD called yet again, "Samuel!" So Samuel arose and went to Eli and said, "Here I am, for you called me." But he answered, "I did not call, my son, lie down again."

    Most of the time when the Lord speaks to us it is as a still small voice. Sometimes He works through other Christian friends and especially through reading the Bible. Another way is through an audible voice, which Samuel heard the evening this refers to.
    After a few times, Samuel realized it was the Lord's voice and it was heard many more times in Samuel's life.
    When the Lord speaks to me (us), we also have to have ears to hear, then follow His direction. (DRM 2/19/12)

3:7    Now Samuel did not yet know the LORD, nor had the word of the LORD yet been revealed to him.

    The title of this chapter is "The Prophetic Call to Samuel."
    Samuel was still a boy when he heard God call. This verse states that he did not know the Lord God, but he heard His voice.
    As an adult in today's world, I believe that God=Jesus only talks to people who trust in Him for their salvation.
    Still, an event has to occur when a person first trusts in the Lord. At that point, He would be calling them to be a part of His family. Perhaps that is what occurred here - even though this event sounds different. (DRM 4/27/13)

3:8    And the LORD called Samuel again the third time. And he arose and went to Eli, and said, Here am I; for thou didst call me. And Eli perceived that the LORD had called the child.

    Like Samuel, in 1993 I heard a voice in the night, I wrote down the words, and I believe the Lord spoke. Eli was right in his perception, and Samuel listened carefully to the Lord. While I still think of that as my highlight of that year, my advisors didn't act like Eli. They think nothing happened. How nice it would be to hear from the Lord again - and to have an advisor like Eli. (DRM 10/11/04)

3:9    And Eli said to Samuel, "Go lie down, and it shall be if He calls you, that you shall say, 'Speak, LORD, for Your servant is listening.' " So Samuel went and lay down in his place.

    While Samuel was probably about 12 years old at the time, this could apply to any new Christian, no matter what their age.
    Samuel heard God's voice (probably the Holy Spirit) and didn't know what to think other than that it was Eli calling. Note that he heard the voice in the quiet - in bed - not during the noisy daytime. When we hear God's voice, we have to OBEY His directions. (DRM 10/12/10)

3:10    Then the LORD came and stood and called as at other times, "Samuel! Samuel!" And Samuel said, "Speak, for Your servant is listening."

    One of the great challenges in (my) life has been discerning the Lord's voice over my will or other voices (e.g. demons) that can direct my/our path.
    Clearly, in the previous verses, young Samuel had the same challenge. To know that it is the Lord who is speaking, the direction proposed has to be Biblical - which means that it can't be opposite of any teaching that is in the Bible.
    When I hear a directive at night or in a dream, I always have to determine the Source if it is God or some other voice that is not His will. (DRM 9/18/12)

3:19    The Lord was with Samuel as he grew up, and he let none of his words fall to the ground. 

    I feel that I am still a child - spiritually, and need to grow up also. I pray that the Lord will also watch over me and not let my words fall to the ground! (DRM 6/6/88)

4:7    The Philistines were afraid, for they said, "God has come into the camp." And they said, "Woe to us! For nothing like this has happened before."

    Israel had been defeated in battle and brought in the ark of the covenant with the hope that they would win the next battle. (v. 3)
    Apparently God was not pleased with this "good luck charm" that the elders decided to use, and Israel lost the next battle as well.
    The Philistines were afraid, but went ahead with the battle and they won - or did the Israelites lose because they weren't listening and ASKING the Lord for assistance?
    God wants us to consult with Him before making decisions - and not to go ahead on our own. (DRM 2/2/12)

4:11    The ark of God was captured, and Eli's two sons, Hophni and Phinehas, died. 

    In [ I Samuel 2 ] the Lord told Eli that his sons were wicked and must be destroyed. During this battle Israel lost and Eli's two sons died, fulfilling God's word. (DRM 6/7/88)

5:9    But after they had moved it (the Ark of God), the Lord's hand was against that city, throwing it into a great panic. 

    What a great chapter. This chapter helped to prove that God was in complete control and people truly feared the Ark - as they did not "know" Him. (DRM 6/8/88)

6:9    but keep watching it. If it goes up to its own territory, toward Beth Shemesh, then the Lord has brought this great disaster on us. 

    The Philistines would not trust in the Lord in Chapter 5, and now wanted to give the Ark back to the Israelites. In verse 12, the cows (with Ark) went straight to Beth Shemesh showing that the Lord was indeed bringing disaster upon them. (DRM 6/9/88)

6:12    And the cows took the straight way in the direction of Beth-shemesh; they went along the highway, lowing as they went, and did not turn aside to the right or to the left. And the lords of the Philistines followed them to the border of Beth-shemesh.

    The Philistines returned the ark of the Lord because of tumors they received while they had the ark (5:6, 7). They had to decide how to return the ark and decided this was the best way.
    I am amazed that God directed the cows to follow the highway and not stop or get diverted by grass along the way - like I could do. God put in the minds of the cows which way to go - and does the same for Christian believers today. (DRM 10/13/10)

6:13    And they of Beth-she'mesh were reaping their wheat harvest in the valley: and they lifted up their eyes, and saw the ark, and rejoiced to see it. 

    The Philistines had captured the Ark seven months earlier (verse 1) and had been cursed by God (5:6). It wasn't hard for them to decide to give it back in some way! They decided to send it back to Israel and most of this chapter was about the procedure. The people of Israel were certainly not expecting the Ark to arrive and stopped their work to worship God when the Ark arrived. I should also worship God when He brings good news. (DRM 10/12/04) Not just when he brings good news, but at all times! (DRM 8/1/05)

7:3    And Samuel said to the whole house of Israel, "If you are returning to the Lord with all your hearts, then rid yourselves of the foreign gods and . . . commit yourselves to the Lord. . .

    Total devotion to the Lord literally means that. Give up all the material things that have been accumulated on earth and serve Him only. (DRM 6/10/88)

7:4    Then the children of Israel did put away Ba'alim and Ash'ta-roth and served the LORD only. 

    Samuel asked Israel to "put away strange gods" and to serve the LORD only, and they did, as this verse shows. As a result of this action, the Philistines  planned to attack and somehow God smote the Philistines with a great thunder [verse 10]. From then on, the Philistines did not attack Israel [verse 14] while Samuel was their leader. This was a test of the faith of Israel that I should follow also. If I do as He commands, then I should expect His blessings/protection. (DRM 10/14/04)

7:8    Then the sons of Israel said to Samuel, "Do not cease to cry to the LORD our God for us, that He may save us from the hand of the Philistines."

    Samuel was the great prophet and judge (v. 15) of Israel at the time. He was the one who had direct communication with the Lord God.
    The Philistines came to Mizpah to attack (v. 7) and the "sons of Israel" came to Samuel to ask for prayer, as they were confident He would give Samuel direction of what to do next.
    God answered Samuel's prayer (v. 9) and the Philistines lost the battle.
    As Christians, our prayers are heard by the Lord and He will answer them in one way or another. Don't ever stop praying when you need help or direction in life. (DRM 1/16/18)

    We don't know how He will move in response to our petitions, but we know that as our Father He longs for us to embrace His love and to trust in His faithfulness. (from Our Daily Bread 1/16/18 AMY BOUCHER PYE)

7:10    Now Samuel was offering up the burnt offering, and the Philistines drew near to battle against Israel. But the LORD thundered with a great thunder [voice] on that day against the Philistines and confused them, so that they were routed [smitten] before Israel.

    This was another case where Israel was not able to defend itself. The nation had just removed their false gods (v. 4) to show their renewed trust in Him. Based on their action, God confused the enemy and protected Israel.
    I believe He does the same for individuals - so long as our trust is completely in Him. (DRM 10/14/10)

8:5    They (Israel's elders) said to him (Samuel), "You are old, and your sons do not walk in your ways; now appoint a king to lead us, such as all the other nations have. "

    Samuel's sons accepted bribes (v.3) and were totally unlike their father. Israel knew this, so wanted a king. Samuel told the Israelites what it would be like to live under a king, but they would not change their minds. (DRM 6/11/88)

8:6    But the thing displeased Samuel, when they said, Give us a king to judge us. And Samuel prayed unto the LORD. 

    Samuel was getting old, and the people were wondering who would be the next leader. It seemed that since the other nations had a king, they they wanted that type of leader also. While God said to give them a king, as it would show their rejection of Him [New Testament], Samuel tried to persuade the people not to have a king by telling them what the leader would do to them. Like the Israelites, I can be stubborn in what I want from the Lord. He could give me my request and later I could regret that I asked for it. (DRM 10/15/04)

8:7    And the LORD said to Samuel, "Listen to the voice of the people in regard to all that they say to you, for they have not rejected you, but they have rejected Me from being king over them. 

    The people of Israel demanded a king to rule over them. As in past occasions, they apparently didn't pray before making this important decision. God wanted them to depend on Him for all things, but they didn't listen. Lord, let me hear and do Your desires. (DRM 5/27/01)

8:19, 20    Nevertheless, the people refused to listen to the voice of Samuel, and they said, "No, but there shall be a King over us, 20that we also may be like all the nations, that our king may judge us and go out before us and fight our battles."

    Samuel appealed to the people not to have a King, but rather continue the present system, which God had implemented. The people would not listen and the Lord God told Samuel to let them have their way.
    We (I) am sometimes the same way. "I want" something that really isn't the best for me. God allows it to happen, then, later, we realize that we did it our way and should have listened to God - as He is the One who knows the future - and what's really best. (DRM 10/15/10)

9:7    Saul said to his servant, "If we go, what can we give the man (Samuel)? The food in our sacks is gone. We have no gift to take to the man of God. What do we have? 

    Saul wanted to see the seer (Samuel) to help him to find his donkeys, but in those times a price for advice was expected. Thank God that we don't have to "pay" to learn of Him! Our payment is our love for Him. (DRM 6/12/88)

9:16    "About this time tomorrow I will send you a man from the land of Benjamin, and you shall anoint him to be prince over My people Israel; and he will deliver My people from the hand of the Philistines. For I have regarded My people, because their cry has come to Me."

    The people of Israel wanted a King, as written yesterday, so the Lord God brought Saul to Samuel to be anointed the King of Israel.
    Unlike a democracy, God made the decision as to who would rule, and He knew what the outcome would be.
    God also has to be given control of our lives, as He knows what is best for each of us. (DRM 10/16/10)

9:17    And when Samuel saw Saul, the LORD said unto him, Behold the man whom I spoke to thee of! this same shall reign over my people. 

    I have been told that God doesn't speak to people. Here is one instance why I disagree. Clearly the Lord God "told" Samuel His desires in some way. The message was transferred and Samuel did what God desired. I personally believe that God still tells some of His servants what to do and how to serve Him better. I need a more serving attitude and a listening ear to hear Him speak. (DRM 10/16/04)

9:21    Saul replied, "Am I not a Benjamite, of the smallest of the tribes of Israel, and my family the least of all the families of the tribe of Benjamin? Why then do you speak to me in this way?"

    At this point in the story, Saul didn't know God had told Samuel to anoint Saul the next king of Israel (vv. 15-16).
    In this verse, Saul was a humble young man, not thinking anything special would happen - as he was only looking for his father's donkeys (v. 3).
    As time progressed, Saul certainly was not humble when he was king.
    God wants us to be humble, remembering that we are totally dependent n Him for our daily direction and will yield to Him as He desires. (DRM 4/10/17)

10:6,7    The Spirit of the Lord will come upon you in power, and you will prophesy with them; and you will be changed into a different person. 7Once these signs are fulfilled, do whatever your hand finds to do, for God is with you. 

    I find these two verses exciting, as I often feel that God has chosen me to do something special for Him also. The question still seems to be WHAT? (DRM 6/13/88)

    [re: 10:6]    Samuels prediction, or prophecy here seems to indicate that Saul would be almost "born-again" in serving God. As Saul had just been anointed by Samuel, he was told several things that would happen in the near future. Certainly Saul must have been amazed when each thing happened. At that time, his heart changed and he believed in God - time often changes attitudes. (DRM 10/16/04)

10:9    Then it happened when he turned his back to leave Samuel, God changed his heart; and all those signs came about on that day.

    From verse two through verse six, Samuel gave Saul a series of events that would happen to him on the way home. These were very specific with names and locations. Certainly this proved that Samuel was a prophet of God.
    I think all of us would like to know what will happen in our future - so long as it's good :-). God has told prophets His plans, but our challenge is finding out who today's prophets are - which is based on their accuracy. (DRM 10/17/10)

11:6    When Saul hear their (messengers from the prisoners) words, the Spirit of God came upon him in power, and he burned with anger. 

    Now I see that this is similar to last night . . . Saul was now committed to serving Israel and the Lord. As he (Saul) understood that the prisoners would be harmed, he convinced (with God's help) the Israelites to fight to win back the prisoners. 
    When I understand God's desire for me, hopefully I will also lead others to know Him. (DRM 6/14/88)

12:17, 18    Is it not wheat harvest today? I will call unto the LORD, and he shall send thunder and rain; that ye may perceive and see that your wickedness is great, which ye have done in the sight of the LORD, in asking you a king. 18So Samuel called unto the LORD; and the LORD sent thunder and rain that day: and all the people greatly feared the LORD and Samuel. 

    Samuel was truly a prophet and friend of the LORD. He told the people what would happen, and was able to call upon God to provide for the things he announced. I am reminded that whatever we ask that is according to God's will, He will provide. If I want something He also wants, He can and will make it happen - but our timing might be off, etc. I need patience too! (DRM 10/17/04)

12:18    Then Samuel called upon the Lord, and that same day the Lord sent thunder and rain. So all the people stood in awe of the Lord and of Samuel. 

    Samuel was telling the Israelites to obey the Lord and wanted them to be reminded of His power. After the storm, obviously they were more believing. (DRM 6/15/88)

12:24, 25    " . . . Only fear the LORD and serve Him in truth with all your heart; for consider what great things He has done for you. 25But if you still do wickedly, both you and your King will be swept away."

    God was already the Israelites King (v. 12) before the anointing of Saul, but God allowed them to have their desire. Here God, through Samuel, said that He would continue to bless the Israelites so long as they continued to serve Him - spiritually - knowing that He is the supreme ruler.
    God wants our heart and our service for His Kingdom, He also knows we need to work in this world to provide for physical needs - thus also being a witness to non-believers. (DRM 10/18/10)

13:7    Some Hebrews even crossed the Jordan to the land of Gad and Gilead. Saul remained at Gilgal, and all the troops with him were quaking with fear. 

    Being outnumbered 6,000 to 600 (v.15), certainly the Israelites had something to fear. The new king Saul seemed confused and not yet ready to trust the Lord. (DRM 6/16/88)

13:8    Now he [Saul] waited seven days, according to the appointed time set by Samuel, but Samuel did not come to Gilgal; and the people were scattering from him.

    Samuel directed Saul to wait seven days (10:8) and Saul waited seven days, and Samuel didn't come, so Saul did the offerings to the Lord.
    Most likely I would have done the same thing. Perhaps Saul should have waited one more day to be sure.
    It is best to wait on the Lord - even if it's one day more, rather than "go ahead" of God. (DRM 10/19/10)

    His failure was that he thought himself so important that he was justified in exercising priestly duties. (Word of Life Diary)

13:9    So Saul said, "Bring to me the burnt offering and the peace offerings." And he offered the burnt offering.

    Saul was impatient. Samuel said he would be there, but was late, so Saul offered the burnt offering to the Lord.
    God has His own plans and ways of doing things and offerings were only to be performed by priests, not kings.
    We (I) are to do things God's way and not our own. (DRM 2/19/13)

13:14    "But now your kingdom shall not endure. The LORD has sought out for Himself a man after His own heart, and the LORD has appointed him as ruler over His people, because you have not kept what the LORD commanded you."

    Saul was 40 years old, and just became King. He attacked the Philistines and they were preparing for a battle. He knew that he wanted the Lord's blessing and called for Samuel. Samuel didn't come on the 7th day, as promised, so Saul offered the burnt offering without him. When Samuel arrived, he said today's verse. I can see that Saul shouldn't have done the burnt offering. God wants total obedience, so long as we know what should be done. (DRM 10/18/04)

14:6    Then Jonathan said to the young man who was carrying his armor, "Come and let us cross over to the garrison of these uncircumcised; perhaps the LORD will work for us, for the LORD is not restrained to save by many or by few."

    This shows Jonathan's faith in the Lord God to provide - as He will work with many (large army) or few (Jonathan and his armor bearer) in defeating the enemy.
    Jonathan never stated that the enemy could kill him, as He had faith in the Lord.
    The armor-bearer was also faithful in following his leader.
    Do I have the faith that Jonathan showed? (DRM 9/16/11)

14:7    "Do all that you have in mind," his armor-bearer said. "Go ahead; I am with you heart and soul."

    The armor-bearer is my hero in this verse. He was the person willing to follow Jonathan at the possible cost of his life. Hopefully I will be a good follower of Christ. (DRM 6/17/88)

14:47    Now when Saul had taken the Kingdom of Israel, he fought against all his enemies on every side, against Moab, the sons of Ammon, Edom, the kings of Zobah, and the Philistines; and wherever he turned, he inflicted punishment.

    This happened thousands of years ago. Israel had enemies on every side - and it's the same today. In Saul's time, he knew that the Lord God was with him to face his enemies. Today Israel is blinded from all the truth - but the Lord will protect them anyway to fulfill prophecy. When they (Israelites) see the supernatural protection - they will FINALLY trust in God=Jesus. (DRM 10/20/10)

15:3    'Now go and strike Amalek and utterly destroy all that he has, and do not spare him; but put to death both man and woman, child and infant, ox and sheep, camel and donkey.' "

    Samuel gave these clear instructions to King Saul. Later in the passage, Saul had saved the opposing King and most of the animals. God was not pleased in that Saul did not obey. Lord, let me do your desires. (DRM 5/28/01)

15:9    But Saul and the people spared Agag and the best of the sheep, the oxen, the fatlings, the lambs, and all that was good, and were not willing to destroy them utterly; but everything despised and worthless, that they utterly destroyed. 

    In verses 2 and 3, the Lord directed Saul to "utterly destroy all that he has and do not spare him." While we don't know the reason that God directs us, it is my responsibility to do what I am told - especially if it is the King of the Universe! Perhaps God's reason was to test the devotion of King Saul - to see if Saul would follow His orders. Don't let me fail you, Lord. (DRM 10/19/04)

15:19    Why then did you not obey the voice of the LORD, but rushed upon the spoil and did what was evil in the sight of the LORD?"

    Saul had been given instructions from the Lord God (via Samuel) on how to win a particular battle with the Amalekites. Saul was told not to save anything (15:3), but he did not obey and saved some animals, etc.
    When I clearly hear the Lord's desire for my life (rarely), I am to do EXACTLY what He says to do - and not deviate to the right or left. Of course the challenge is hearing God's voice and knowing it is Him and not someone else. (DRM 9/14/11)

15:21    But the people took some of the spoil, sheep and oxen, the choicest of the things devoted to destruction, to sacrifice to the LORD your God at Gilgal."

    King Saul had instructions from the Lord God to "utterly destroy . . . the Amalekites . . . until they are exterminated" (v. 18).
    As today's verse shows, Saul didn't follow God's instructions to the letter. He made exceptions that may have been for a good cause, but God's instructions are higher than man's thoughts.
    When we know God's will for our lives, we are to follow His plan and not modify it for any reason. (DRM 6/9/13)

15:22    And Samuel said,
                "Has the LORD as much delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices As in obeying the voice of the LORD? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, And to heed than the fat of rams. . . 

    Saul seemed surprised that he did not obey the Lord's command. He said he intended to sacrifice the remaining livestock to the Lord. There was no mention of the King. The Lord God wants our obedience in His directives - more that He wants our sacrifices. In verse 28, Saul was told he would lose his kingdom to another - due to this disobedience. I pray the Lord will convict me and forgive me when I unintentionally disobey Him. (DRM 10/20/04)

15:23    "For rebellion is as the sin of divination,
              And insubordination is as iniquity and idolatry.
              Because you have rejected the word of the LORD,
              He has also rejected you from being king."

    This quote is from Samuel to Israel's King Saul. Saul had not followed the clear direction of the Lord God.
    God doesn't want us to change His clear direction, no matter how trivial it may seem. God calls this rebellion and insubordination - which is sin.
    When we (I) know God's plan, He wants us to follow what He says and not put in any side steps. He wants us to follow Him and no other. (DRM 3/18/12)

15:24    Then Saul said to Samuel, "I have sinned; I have indeed transgressed the command of the Lord and your words, because I feared the people and listened to their voice.

    It wasn't easy for Saul to admit he had sinned against the Lord, and he probably said this statement grudgingly. Later, Samuel said that the Kingdom would be taken from Saul and given to his neighbor because of this. I need to constantly confess my sins. (DRM 5/29/01)

15:26    But Samuel said to Saul, "I will not return with you; for you have rejected the word of the LORD, and the LORD has rejected you from being king over Israel."

    When God clearly directs us to do something, like this case, He wants us to follow every part of His directive - not some or most of it, like Saul did.
    It may not make human sense, but follow the Lord's EVERY directive to the letter. (DRM 10/21/10)

15:31    So Samuel went back with Saul, and Saul worshiped the Lord. 

    In this chapter, Saul sinned against God and did not destroy EVERYTHING as God instructed. Samuel told Saul of this error and Saul pleaded for forgiveness, but God was grieved that He had made Saul King. (v.35)
    Thank God that Jesus Christ came later to die for our sins, if we confess our sins! Thank you God for teaching me more of the difference Christ makes in my life! (DRM 7/22/87)

16:1    Now the LORD said to Samuel, "How long will you grieve over Saul, since I have rejected him from being king over Israel? Fill your horn with oil and go; I will send you to Jesse the Bethlehemite, for I have selected a king of Myself among his sons."

    I was humored that God would say "how long" as we are usually the ones that say that to Him.
    This verse is a reminder that Jesse's family - including the future King David - came from Bethlehem. This all led to God's promise to David that a descendent of his would be king forever (2 Samuel 7:12-13).
    God makes all the decisions, as Samuel knew. Samuel the prophet knew and followed His voice. We are to be as submissive to His will as Samuel was. God speaks to us in various ways. When instructed, don't put it off - do it! (DRM 10/20/15)

16:2    But Samuel said, "How can I go? When Saul hears of it, he will kill me." And the LORD said, "Take a heifer with you and say, 'I have come to sacrifice to the LORD.' . . .

    The Lord God asked Samuel to anoint a king to replace Saul (v. 1).
    Samuel didn't want to tell Saul the purpose of his trip - which is logical - but God=the LORD - told Samuel what to say that would not cause suspicion.
    If God, the Lord, Jesus, wants us to do something, He will open the doors and/or give us a plan on how to accomplish His will.
    This really has the same theme as Prov. 3:5-6 - He will direct our paths. (DRM 11/29/13)

16:7    But the Lord said to Samuel, "Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The Lord does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord look at the heart."

    This verse really was special to me tonight, as I had just finished watching a  Superman movie and always get impressed with the outward appearance of movie actors and similar people. 
    It is good to remember the phrase:  "It's what's inside that counts" and everyone can not have the body of a superhero. Jesus Christ is my superhero and He provides everything! (DRM 7/31/87) Jesus is our provider, and also cares more about our heart than our outward appearance. (DRM 1/20/2004)

    No matter how much exercising and dieting I do, I know I will never have a great physical appearance. After reading this verse, I'm glad of that, because the Lord Jesus is not looking at my appearance as much as He is looking for a heart totally devoted to Him. (DRM 5/30/01)

16:12    So he (Jesse) sent and brought him in. Now he was ruddy, with beautiful eyes and a handsome appearance. And the LORD said (to Samuel), "Arise, anoint him; for this is he."

    This is an example of how the LORD God  has our lives planned in advance. Since God knows everything, He knows how we will serve or not serve Him during our lifetime while on earth. The great mystery is that we don't know His plan. We want to live according to God's will, but don't know the details. The Bible tells me a lot of what He thinks is good, and I also depend on progressive revelation as the days continue. I always need His input! (DRM 10/21/04)

16:16    " . . . Let our lord [Saul] now command your servants who are before you. Let them seek a man who is a skillful player on the harp; and it shall come about when the evil spirit from God is on you, that he [David] shall play the harp with his hand, and you will be well."

    Samuel had just anointed David the future King and the spirit of the Lord came upon David and left Saul. I don't understand the "evil spirit from God," and think that it is really the result of Satan's spirit filling where God's spirit had departed. Still, from all the people available in Israel, God must have had influence in choosing David, of all the possibilities. (DRM 10/22/10)

16:18    Then one of the young men said, "Behold, I have seen a son of Jesse the Bethlehemite who is a skillful musician, a mighty man of valor, a warrior, one prudent in speech, and a handsome man; and the LORD is with him."

    When David slew Goliath, in the following chapter, he was described as being young, but not here. I wondered why? Probably the reason is that the person who recommended David was young, and a young person wouldn't call an equal "young."
    When we (I) wonder what David was like, the partial answer is here. God gave him all of these attributes while he was probably a teenager. With all these things going for him, he was sure to become a choice for God to use in the future.
    No one knows who God will use today - it's sure we all will have some part in His plan. (DRM 11/28/14)

17:9    (Goliath said) "If he is able to fight with me and kill me, then we will become your servants; but if I prevail against him and kill him, then you shall become our servants and serve us."

    The challenge of Goliath could be compared to the spiritual challenge that people have at conversion. Will we continue to serve Satan and this world system, or serve God and Jesus? To have a truly fruitful life, I must be a servant to Jesus and defeat the trials and temptations of Satan - with God's help. (DRM 10/22/04)

17:11    When Saul and all Israel heard these words of the Philistine [Goliath], they were dismayed and greatly afraid.

    The Holy Spirit had left Saul, as was written yesterday. God does not give the spirit of fear - but if Goliath was standing in front of me - I still would have fear. As the story continues, God will provide a way to save Israel - as He will do for each of us - even if we don't see it immediately. (DRM 10/23/10)

17:25    The man of Israel said [to David], "Have you seen this man [Goliath] who is coming up? Surely he is coming up to defy Israel. And it will be that the king will enrich the man who kills him with great riches and will give him his daughter and make his father's house free in Israel."

    This makes me wonder what David's motives were to kill Goliath. According to this verse, he would receive a wife, money and no taxes for his family, which could be an incentive.
    With David's heart for the Lord, I believe he wanted to kill Goliath to show that God would defend His people, Israel. Perhaps he also remembered his anointing and believed God would not allow him to die before it was fulfilled. (DRM 10/24/10)

    But David's motive was a desire to remove the disgrace that had come upon Israel (v. 26). More importantly, he desired to eliminate the dishonor and disrepute that had come upon the God of Israel. (Word of Life Diary)

17:26    Then David spoke to the men who were standing by him, saying, "What will be done for the man who kills this Philistine, and takes away the reproach from Israel? For who is this uncircumcised Philistine, that he should taunt the armies of the living God?"

    David's father, Jesse, had just sent David to give supplies at the battlefront. At the front, David asked this question to the troops. He didn't have a plan of attack - yet, but wanted to know the reward. From the wording of the question, he believed that God was on their side, and he wanted God to win this "battle" for Israel. Like David, God can/will direct me to do His will at His time. (DRM 10/23/04)

17:33    Then Saul said to David, "You are not able to go against this Philistine to fight with him; for you are but a youth while he has been a warrior from his youth."

    Appearances. I can truly associate with this verse.
    King Saul said at first that David couldn't go against Goliath because he didn't look the part. Apparently the king wanted someone who was bigger and stronger - more intimidating - to fight Goliath.
    David had the right attitude - it wasn't his age or size that would win the battle, but the Lord God who would be with him.
    If someone we know has confidence that he/she can do something with God's help, we should let them try. It's not the outward appearance, but the inward heart for God that will change the world. (DRM 4/11/15)

17:36    " . . . Your servant [David] has killed both the lion and the bear; and this uncircumcised Philistine [Goliath] will be like one of them, since he has taunted the armies of the living God."

    David was probably a teenager when he offered to kill Goliath. He had the confidence of youth and agility, but also knew the Lord God would protect him if it was His will - and clearly God would will that the Israelites not serve the Philistines.
    David also knew that he had just been anointed by Samuel (16:12, 13) to be the next king of Israel, so that surely increased his confidence of success.
    How can God increase our confidence to serve Him? Knowing that we will have eternal life with Him is a great start. (DRM 9/12/14)

17:37    And David said, "The LORD who delivered me from the paw of the lion and from the paw of the bear, He will deliver me from the hand of this Philistine." And Saul said to David, "Go, and may the LORD be with you."

    David had faith and trust in the Lord to provide for his defense - as well as the honor of the nation of Israel. Apparently no one else in Saul's army at that time had the same faith.
    God=Jesus wants us to put all of our faith in Him like David did, then He will provide for our needs. (DRM 10/25/10)

17:40    He took his stick in his hand and chose for himself five smooth stones from the brook, and put them in the shepherd's bag which he had, even in his pouch, and his sling was in his hand; and he approached the Philistine.

    This is from the well-known story of David and Goliath. No one in the Israelite army wanted to fight the giant Goliath. David just came to bring food to his brothers, but he was not afraid because he knew God would be with him.
    The attempts of King Saul to put armor on David failed and David rejected this outside help, depending only on God and his slingshot skill.
    Why did David win? He depended on the Lord God and not the sword, armor or anything else created by man.
    David had faith and gave God the glory. We/I need more faith like David had. (DRM 7/18/17)

17:45    Then David said to the Philistine (Goliath), "You come to me with a sword, a spear, and a javelin, but I come to you in the name of the LORD of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have taunted."

    David's faith was showing! While he knew the abilities that he had with the sling and stone, he also knew that the Lord was on his side. Even in his few years, he knew that God would deliver him to be king someday. He was not afraid to be bold, in the Lord - which is something that I still need to be reminded of, and to be better at. (DRM 10/26/04)

17:46a    This day the Lord will hand you over to me, and I'll strike you down and cut off your head.

    The well-known story about David and Goliath showed a lot of confidence by David in this verse. By depending totally on God, anything can be done! (DRM 6/18/88)

17:47    and that all this assembly may know that the LORD does not deliver by sword or by spear; for the battle is the LORD'S and He will give you into our hands. 

    This is the last thing that David said to Goliath before he was killed. David was speaking and showing his faith by being there. He had confidence in the LORD and He provided. I need more of that! (DRM 5/31/01)

17:48    Then it happened when the Philistine rose and came and drew near to meet David, that David ran quickly toward the battle line to meet the Philistine. 

    In this section [17:48-58], David killed Goliath. This verse shows that David's quickness had an impact. Goliath wasn't prepared for David's stone - as he didn't see it coming. Apparently David didn't need a second stone! While Goliath wasn't prepared, we always need to be prepared for Jesus' soon arrival. (DRM 10/27/04)

17:49    And David put his hand into his bag and took from it a stone and slung it, and struck the Philistine on his forehead. And the stone sank into his forehead, so that he fell on his face to the ground.

    Goliath had nearly every part of his body covered with armor. He had size and strength, but he had at least one exposed spot - his face apparently.
    God gave David the wisdom to aim for that area, and David hit his target on the first try. David's faith was tested and he succeeded in the test. How am I doing in my test? (DRM 10/26/10)

18:1    Now it came about when he had finished speaking to Saul, that the soul of Jonathan was knit to the soul of David, and Jonathan loved him as himself.

    I have a homosexual friend who said that this verse proves that Jonathan and David were also homosexual. I believe that Jonathan loved David as a brother. David got married different times and had many children, so was not devoted to Jonathan.
    I see nothing wrong with close friendships. (DRM 10/27/10)

18:3, 4    Then Jonathan made a covenant with David because he loved him as himself. 4Jonathan stripped himself of the robe that was on him and gave it to David, with his armor, including his sword and his bow and his belt.

    David and Jonathan were quite young when they first met. We don't know how long they were friends before this covenant occurred, but Jonathan could tell that David would be a better king in the future than he felt he would be.
    The gifts in verse four were representations of Jonathan's future leadership role - especially the robe, I'm quite sure. Certainly Jonathan didn't know he would die before David became king. (31:2)
    If we have close friends, they should know it like David and Jonathan did. No one knows when our last day on earth will be, so friendship and love should not be kept secret. (DRM 12/18/14)

18:7, 8    The women sang as they played, and said,
                        "Saul has slain his thousands,
                         And David his ten thousands."
              8Then Saul became very angry, for this saying displeased him; and he said, "They have ascribed to David ten thousands, but to me they have ascribed thousands. Now what more can he have but the kingdom?"

    After David killed Goliath, both Saul and Jonathan wanted him to be their friend (18:1, 2). Saul put David in charge of the men of war (v. 5). Everyone seemed pleased with David.
    Saul then became jealous when this song was sung. He wanted to keep his power as king and saw a new threat.
    Saul (and we) needed to be reminded that God rules the world. He arranges the events of each day. Maybe things aren't going as expected, but God is in control. Be thankful for what He has given you. (DRM 5/28/17)

    The comparison game is foolish and self-destructive. Someone will always have something we don't or enjoy experiences different from ours. But God has already given us many blessings, including both life on this earth and the promise of eternal life to all who believe. Depending on His help and focusing on Him in thankfulness can help us to overcome jealousy. (from Our Daily Bread 5/25/17)

18:12    Now Saul was afraid of David, for the LORD was with him but had departed from Saul. 

    As expected, David was very popular for having killed Goliath. After the massacre of the Philistines, David was credited for killing ten thousand. He had become a close friend of Saul's son, Jonathan also. Saul could see how popular David was and he was jealous of losing power. The Lord God had been very good to David. As I try to do His will, I hope the Lord will also open doors for me that will glorify Him. (DRM 10/27/04)

18:14    In everything he did he had great success, because the Lord was with him. 

    Without the Lord, things can and do go wrong. When the Lord is in you, and you are truly doing His will, things will go right. 
    While I continue to change direction, I pray that I am truly doing God's will and that my change will be a service unto Him. (DRM 9/23/87)

18:14, 15    And David was prospering in all his ways for the LORD was with him. 15When Saul saw that he was prospering greatly, he dreaded him.

    David knew he was selected by God, he had killed Goliath and in this section, received the friendship of Jonathan, the King's son. The Lord was very good to him and King Saul was probably jealous at seeing someone else prosper in his sight. Lord, may I accept what You give me. (DRM 6/1/01)

19:2    So Jonathan told David saying, "Saul, my father is seeking to put you to death. Now therefore, please be on guard in the morning, and stay in a secret place and hide yourself."

    This was the beginning of cycles for Saul. At times he tried to kill David, and other times they reconciled and were friends. In this instance he depended on his friend Jonathan and let him negotiate his return. Friendships are important — it is great to speak your mind and not fear repercussions. I have very few friends that really understand me. (DRM 10/28/04)

19:6    Saul listened to Jonathan and took this oath: "As surely as the Lord lives, David will not be put to death."

    In this chapter Saul wants to, then doesn't want to, then again wants to kill David. David has to alternately hide and be free. This shows us that being on the Lord's side can put us through trials. (DRM 6/19/88)

19:10    Saul tried to pin David to the wall with the spear, but he slipped away out of Saul's presence, so that he stuck the spear into the wall. And David fled and escaped that night.

    It must have been very difficult for David as Saul's moods changed. Sometimes Saul would get along fine with his son-in-law, then suddenly he would try to kill him. Still, David was always forgiving and trying to reconcile with Saul — like we (I) should do with others who disagree or don't understand us. (DRM 10/28/10)

20:9    And Jonathan said, "Far be it from you! For if I should indeed learn that evil has been decided by my father to come upon you, then would I not tell you about it?"

    David was convinced that Saul wanted to kill him, but his friend Jonathan didn't think that his father would plot to kill David without his knowledge. Jonathan thought his father, Saul, would tell him. Sometimes friendships are closer than relatives. This is a good example of that. I am thankful that I have at least two people that I can share my life with, and always pray for more. (DRM 10/29/04)

20:15    " . . . You shall not cut off your lovingkindness from my house forever, not even when the LORD cuts off every one of the enemies of David from the face of the earth."

    This is part of a quote from Jonathan to David. This verse is like a vow that David later kept - to show lovingkindness to all of Saul's household that's still alive when David became King.
    When I (we) make vows to God or other people, the vow MUST be kept. Once it took me over 10 years to fulfill a vow to the Lord, but I finally did it - and enjoyed it after all. (DRM 10/29/10)

20:23    And about the matter you and I discussed - remember, the Lord is witness between you and me forever.

    David and Jonathan had a secret going and they totally trusted each other, knowing God was a witness. I should learn to keep secrets better based on this truth. (DRM 6/20/88)

20:31    (Saul said) "For as long as the son of Jesse lives on the earth, neither you (Jonathan) nor your kingdom will be established. Therefore now, send and bring him (David) to me, for he must surely die."

    While it was not new that Saul wanted to kill David, here I see why. Saul wanted only the best for his son, Jonathan, and not to have someone outside of the family replace him. Saul was not taking God's will into account, only his own. That's also a challenge for me - as I want to do things my way, and not listen enough to the Lord. I need to hear His voice! (DRM 10/30/04)

20:32, 33    But Jonathan answered Saul his father and said to him, "Why should he be put to death? What has he done?" 33Then Saul hurled his spear at him to strike him down; so Jonathan knew that his father had decided to put David to death. 

    Jonathan was certainly the "in between" between Saul and David. Probably he was closer to David because of their ages. Without a doubt, Jonathan found out this day that Saul wanted to kill David and he almost got killed in the process.
    Saul was really rebelling against God's plan. We (I) am to accept God's plan - even if it's not my own. (DRM 10/30/10)

20:34    Then Jonathan arose from the table in fierce anger, and did not eat food on the second day of the new moon, for he was grieved over David because his father had dishonored him.

    If my father had just thrown a spear to kill me in anger (v. 33), I would have left the dinner table also - in fear!
    Jonathan and David were close friends and Jonathan's father, King Saul, logically wanted Jonathan to be the next king and not David. Still his violence against these two young men was extreme.
    God is in charge of all that happens in the world. He had chosen David, and Saul should have submitted to His known will.
    Even when God overrules our desires by doing things we wouldn't choose, we should also submit to His will, as He knows best. (DRM 2/24/18)

20:38    And Jonathan called after the lad, "Hurry, be quick, do not stay!" And Jonathan's lad picked up the arrow and came to his master.

    Jonathan and David were close friends. King Saul, Jonathan's father, wanted to kill David at the time and Jonathan wanted to protect him. The plan was to tell David he was in danger by what Jonathan told the lad during target practice (1 Sam. 20:21, 22). In this verse Jonathan was warning David to get away.
    We want to help and protect our close friends. We don't want bad things to happen to them. God=Jesus is the same way with His family . He wants to protect us from Satan and his demons, or other things/accidents that might come our way. God loves us as His true family. (DRM 2/10/17)

20:42    Jonathan said to David, "Go in safety, inasmuch as we have sworn to each other in the name of the LORD, saying, 'The Lord will be between me and you, and between my descendants and your descendants forever.' Then he rose and departed, while Jonathan went into the city.

    Jonathan had protected David from the wrath of his father, King Saul. They were close friends and Jonathan had just experienced his father's wrath that he couldn't kill David (v. 33).
    Because of their friendship, Jonathan had agreed to tell David of the results before the decision of David's departure to another city/territory.
    In this verse the agreement for the future is stated - David would not harm Jonathan's descendants forever. Later, David kept his word. In this respect, David's heart was pure and he kept it that way. (DRM 10/18/14)

21:13    So he [David] pretended to be insane in their [people of Gath's] presence; and while he was in their hands he acted like a madman . . . 

    Sometimes the Lord tells us of people who are not in agreement with His purposes. We must be adaptable to either speak to them or, in this case, to avoid them all together. (DRM 6/21/88)

22:17    The the king (Saul) ordered the guards at his side: Turn and kill the priests of the Lord, because they too have sided with David. . . "

    One of the dangers of serving the Lord is immediate death from unbelievers. Lord help me to serve You no matter how others feel about You. (DRM 6/22/88)

23:12    So David inquired of the LORD, saying, "Shall I go and attack these Philistines?" And the LORD said to David, "Go and attack the Philistines and deliver Keilah."

    Whenever David was unsure on what to do next, he prayed/asked the Lord God for direction. David clearly had great communications with the Lord and got quick answers.
    The point of this section is to pray and ask the Lord BEFORE doing any major thing that will affect your and others lives. Today it seems that His answer can be in one of various forms: The words in the Bible, the direction of Christian friends, or the direction of the Holy Spirit.
    When hearing from the Holy Spirit, I make sure it's Him by being sure the direction is consistent with what the people in the Bible did in the past. (DRM 4/13/15)

23:16, 17    And Jonathan, Saul's son, arose and went to David at Horesh, and encouraged him in God. 17Thus he said to him, "Do not be afraid, because the hand of Saul my father will not find you, and you will be King over Israel and I will be next to you; and Saul my father knows that also."

    Jonathan and David were close friends as it developed. In this verse Jonathan encouraged David in his faith in God.
    Clearly Jonathan wasn't a prophet in one respect - he planned on being David's assistant when David was king - but Jonathan died before that day. Jonathan also said David would be king - and that prophecy was true. (DRM 4/2/13)

    In a sense, Jonathan was doing what Jesus described as the mark of a true friend when He said, "Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one's life for his friends" (John 15:13). Jonathan was laying aside much of what his life might have been to be a friend to David. (from Our Daily Bread, INSIGHT, 4/2/13)

23:26b, 27    As Saul and his forces were closing in on David and his men to capture them, 27a messenger came to Saul, saying, "Come quickly! The Philistines are raiding the land."

    How easy it is to forget that the Lord is watching over our every move and that He cares about us! Davis was "trapped," but God provided a way out by diverting Saul away to another place. 
    I must continually remember that the Lord will protect me from anything, if only I believe in Him and His power to do these things. (DRM 5/29/87)

24:4a    The men said, "This is the day the Lord spoke of when he said to you, 'I will give your enemy into your hands for you to deal with as you wish.'"

    David had the opportunity to kill Saul in this chapter, but decided not to. The Lord provided David an opportunity to speak to Saul and for Saul to understand David! (DRM 6/23/88)

24:5    It came about afterward that David's conscience bothered him because he had cut off the edge of Saul's robe.

    David had the opportunity to kill King Saul and take over his kingdom. He knew that God had already anointed him to be the next king of Israel - and there was Saul!
    David's conscience - or we could say the Holy Spirit directed him - NOT to kill King Saul. He knew that God would choose the day of Saul's death - and he (David) wasn't going to change that. It's not our job to make things happen - but let God direct events in His timing. (DRM 6/25/14)

25:10    But Nabal answered David's servants and said, "Who is David? And who is the son of Jesse? There are many servants today who are each breaking away from his master. . . "

    This occurred thousands of years ago. Nabal probably was telling the truth and didn't know David or realize how many people he was leading at the time. There was no television or radio or way of knowing.
    Fortunately someone (v. 14) told Abigail, Nabal's wife the situation (v. 14) and she solved the impending confrontation.
    We need to keep informed about what is going on in the world, not just our little circle of life. The whole world is changing. Jesus is coming back soon and we need to know and be ready for that day. (DRM 10/12/16)

    . . . He certainly was irrational as he addressed David. On the run from Saul, David had provided security detail for the sheep of a wealthy man named Nabal. (from Our Daily Bread 10/12/16)

25:32    David said to Abigail, "Praise be to the Lord, the God of Israel, who has sent you today to meet me."

    This interesting chapter shows how David met Abigail and later married her. Abigail's first husband, Nabal, did not trust in the Lord and died. (DRM 6/24/88)

25:34    . . . Nevertheless, as the LORD God of Israel lives, who has restrained me from harming you, unless you had come quickly to meet me, surely there would not have been left to Nabal until the morning light as much as one male."

    David was traveling through Nabal's land with at least 600 men (v. 13). He must have been on the land for some time as he (David) and his men did no harm to the sheep or the shepherds on the land (v. 7). David asked Nabal for food and Nabal refused. David wanted to take revenge on Nabal for his refusal, but Abigail, Nabal's wife found out and supplied David's needs.
    In this verse, David tells Abigail how she saved their land from his intended revenge.
    Revenge is not necessary. God will provide, so long as we put our trust in Him. (DRM 3/12/16)

26:24    " . . . As surely as I [David] valued your [Saul] life today, so may the Lord value my life and deliver me from all trouble."

    God watches over us at all times. We don't need worldly recognition for our good deeds, but have the knowledge that God is watching and is pleased if we honor Him in whatever we do. (DRM 6/25/88)

27:1    But David thought to himself, "One of these days I will be destroyed by the hand of Saul. . ."

    Even David had the sin of fear (of Saul). This verse certainly shows David to be human and to have the characteristic of fear that we all have sometimes. Thank God for His love for each of us! (DRM 6/26/88)

28:7    Saul then said to his attendants, "Find me a woman who is a medium, so I may go and inquire of her." "There is one in Endor," they said. 

    This chapter deals with Saul going to a medium (witch), as the Lord would not answer him. By this chapter, God is telling us that witches do exist, and have powers. I still prefer the Lord's side! (DRM 6/27/88)

28:11    Then the woman [medium] said, "Whom shall I bring up for you?" [From the dead] and he [Saul] said, "Bring up Samuel for me."

    This is one passage that I don't understand the Lord's intent. Surely, this passage shows that mediums can talk to the dead - but does God want us to go to them for help?? I don't think so. I think God [Jesus] wants us to come to Him for help. Saul is NOT a good example for a Christian. (DRM 6/2/01)

28:18    As you [Saul] did not obey the LORD and did not execute His fierce wrath on Amalek, so the LORD has done this thing to you this day.

    So long as we put our complete trust in Jesus, we can't lose our salvation - but we can backslide and be punished by the Lord for our disobedience. That seems to be the case here.
    King Saul disobeyed the Lord and did not attack the Philistines (v. 5), thus God did not answer Saul's call for further instructions (v. 6).
    When God gives us direction, we are to follow and obey, not ask for another assignment. With our disobedience God can stop talking, but He still loves us and wants us to turn from our own ways and follow His better way. (DRM 9/9/14)

29:7    Turn back and go in peace; do nothing to displease the Philistine rulers.

    David was with King Achish for over a year, when the Philistine commanders told the king to send David back (home). When God has a calling for you, He will work through whoever is nearby. (DRM 6/28/88)

30:6    David was greatly distressed because the men were talking of stoning him; each one was bitter in spirit because of his sons and daughters. But David found strength in the Lord his God.

    Certainly I get distressed when things don't go my own way. Thankfully I am not threatened by stoning! When these things happen, I should be like David and reflect on all of God's power and trust and pray that He will provide all the answers to any situation. (DRM 3/25/87)

31:6    So Saul and his three sons and his armor-bearer and all his men died together that same day. 

    Saul saw his impending defeat by the Philistines and did not want to be captured, so killed himself. I personally want to wait for God's help in times of trouble. . . (DRM 6/29/88)