1 Samuel 30

1 Samuel 30:1

Jonathan Pleads for David

We see in Saul and Jonathan a great contrast between two people in their attitude toward David. This speaks of the relationship that every human being has with Christ. It is for or against Him. The relationship to Christ is all-determining for the present and the future. The division this causes runs through families (Luke 12:51-53).

Saul speaks openly for the first time about killing David (1 Samuel 19:1). It is not now during an outburst of anger, but deliberate. He tells Jonathan and all his servants about his intention. In this company David has only one friend: Jonathan. The servants seem to symbolize the silent majority. They are neither for David nor against him. They do not have their own opinion but go along with the party that offers them the most benefits. There is a certain esteem with them for David, of which Saul is also aware (1 Samuel 18:5; 22), but they do not speak openly for him, like Jonathan.

Jonathan is “greatly delighted in David”. Saul seems to have forgotten this. He will think that Jonathan is as afraid of his position as he is and will therefore benefit from killing David. But Jonathan informs David of the intentions of his father and urges him to exercise caution. He also informs him that he will let him know what his father really intends to do. He does not urge David to flee but seeks an opportunity to have him return to his father’s court. Despite all the difficulties there still is David’s place.

In what Jonathan says in 1 Samuel 19:4-5 of David, we can almost hear the Christian speak of a fellow believer and of Christ. It is good to be a friend who speaks well of a friend. Above all, it is good to speak well of the Lord Jesus before the ears of the world.

The first thing Jonathan says is that Saul, as king, should not be tempted to sin against David. He may only kill David if sin is found in him. But, Jonathan testifies, David has not sinned against the king. On the contrary, he has done what has been “very beneficial” for him. Jonathan reminds his father of David’s victory over Goliath, taking his life in his hand (cf. Judges 12:3). That victory the LORD has given and has been beneficial to all Israel. Saul saw it himself and rejoiced.

Jonathan’s testimony to Saul shows how much David is a servant of the LORD and not just of Saul. David is hated without cause, as was and is the case with the Lord Jesus. The natural man can sometimes admire the Lord Jesus for His deeds. But if he does not choose Him, he hates Him and also all who are in connection with Him.

Jonathan concludes his plea with an appeal to Saul’s common sense. There is no reason to kill David, he is innocent. Therefore, Saul must refrain from killing David, otherwise he will shed innocent blood.

The heart of Saul is getting soft and he reinstates David, just as before. It characterizes David that he returns to the court of Saul. This can only be done by someone who lives with and for the LORD and not for the eyes of men. There is no resentment or revenge on his part. Despite all the injustice done to him and the permanent threat of death, David returns to perform his humble service with an intractable king.

Each time we find such moments of the becoming soft of the heart of Saul (1 Samuel 24:7; 1 Samuel 26:21). Each time it turns out to be only a transient condition and not the conviction of his heart. His jealousy for David remains and with it his hatred and his attempts to kill him. David remains for him the competitor of his throne, from which he does not want to renounce.

David escapes being killed by Saul four times in this chapter alone. First through the intervention of Jonathan. Next time by his own speed to dodge the spear Saul throws at him (1 Samuel 19:10). The third time by the help of Michal (1 Samuel 19:12) and the fourth time by the protection of Samuel (1 Samuel 19:23).

1 Samuel 30:2

Saul Tries to Kill David

When there is war with the Philistines, David attained a great victory, so that the Philistines flee before him. Instead of rejoicing over it, the evil spirit of the LORD comes on Saul. Then David leaves his place of celebrated general and takes again the place of the humble minstrel to calm down a king tormented by an evil spirit. He knows that in that place he should not be on his guard of the Philistine spear, but of Saul’s spear (1 Samuel 18:10-11).

Because in addition to David’s victory, it is mentioned that an evil spirit takes possession of Saul, we can assume that David’s victory makes Saul jealous. Jealousy offers demons an opening to gain control over a human being. Saul again tries to kill David with his spear. Because David is always on his guard, he dodges the spear with a presence of mind given to him by the LORD. Then he flees and escapes.

1 Samuel 30:3

Saul Tries to Kill David

When there is war with the Philistines, David attained a great victory, so that the Philistines flee before him. Instead of rejoicing over it, the evil spirit of the LORD comes on Saul. Then David leaves his place of celebrated general and takes again the place of the humble minstrel to calm down a king tormented by an evil spirit. He knows that in that place he should not be on his guard of the Philistine spear, but of Saul’s spear (1 Samuel 18:10-11).

Because in addition to David’s victory, it is mentioned that an evil spirit takes possession of Saul, we can assume that David’s victory makes Saul jealous. Jealousy offers demons an opening to gain control over a human being. Saul again tries to kill David with his spear. Because David is always on his guard, he dodges the spear with a presence of mind given to him by the LORD. Then he flees and escapes.

1 Samuel 30:4

Saul Tries to Kill David

When there is war with the Philistines, David attained a great victory, so that the Philistines flee before him. Instead of rejoicing over it, the evil spirit of the LORD comes on Saul. Then David leaves his place of celebrated general and takes again the place of the humble minstrel to calm down a king tormented by an evil spirit. He knows that in that place he should not be on his guard of the Philistine spear, but of Saul’s spear (1 Samuel 18:10-11).

Because in addition to David’s victory, it is mentioned that an evil spirit takes possession of Saul, we can assume that David’s victory makes Saul jealous. Jealousy offers demons an opening to gain control over a human being. Saul again tries to kill David with his spear. Because David is always on his guard, he dodges the spear with a presence of mind given to him by the LORD. Then he flees and escapes.

1 Samuel 30:5

Michal Helps David to Escape

While Saul’s servants surround the house, David writes Psalms 59 (Psalms 59:1a). In it he prays for deliverance (Psalms 59:1b-2). Therein he is a type of the remnant. In such circumstances we may trust in God and say that in the morning we will praise Him. At the same time David uses the opportunity offered to escape. He flees in a way like that of Saul, later Paul (Acts 9:24-25).

The use of the idol means that there is an idol in the house of David. Perhaps the application is allowed that this is the way Michal looks at David: she adores him, he is her idol. It leads her to help her husband stay out of her father’s hands. There are women who adore their husband so much that they support him through thick and thin, even in evil. We do not know whether Sapphira, for example, worshiped her husband Ananias, but she did support him in evil and shares his judgment (Acts 5:1-2; 5; 9-10).

The illness that David is said to have is no obstacle to Saul to let him bring to him. He now is that keen on the death of David that he wants to kill him himself to have the certainty of his death.

Michal has a certain love for David, but it is a selfish love. She is not a Saul, but neither is she a wife who follows her husband. Her help to the refugee resembles in the distance the help Rachab gave to the spies (Joshua 2:4-6).

The deceit is discovered. Saul blames Michal very much and calls David “my enemy”. Then Michal’s self-love appears. She speaks of David to her father as someone who has threatened to kill her if she would not help him escape. Michal is not Saul, but certainly also not Jonathan who spoke well of David to his father Saul (1 Samuel 19:4).

1 Samuel 30:6

Michal Helps David to Escape

While Saul’s servants surround the house, David writes Psalms 59 (Psalms 59:1a). In it he prays for deliverance (Psalms 59:1b-2). Therein he is a type of the remnant. In such circumstances we may trust in God and say that in the morning we will praise Him. At the same time David uses the opportunity offered to escape. He flees in a way like that of Saul, later Paul (Acts 9:24-25).

The use of the idol means that there is an idol in the house of David. Perhaps the application is allowed that this is the way Michal looks at David: she adores him, he is her idol. It leads her to help her husband stay out of her father’s hands. There are women who adore their husband so much that they support him through thick and thin, even in evil. We do not know whether Sapphira, for example, worshiped her husband Ananias, but she did support him in evil and shares his judgment (Acts 5:1-2; 5; 9-10).

The illness that David is said to have is no obstacle to Saul to let him bring to him. He now is that keen on the death of David that he wants to kill him himself to have the certainty of his death.

Michal has a certain love for David, but it is a selfish love. She is not a Saul, but neither is she a wife who follows her husband. Her help to the refugee resembles in the distance the help Rachab gave to the spies (Joshua 2:4-6).

The deceit is discovered. Saul blames Michal very much and calls David “my enemy”. Then Michal’s self-love appears. She speaks of David to her father as someone who has threatened to kill her if she would not help him escape. Michal is not Saul, but certainly also not Jonathan who spoke well of David to his father Saul (1 Samuel 19:4).

1 Samuel 30:7

Michal Helps David to Escape

While Saul’s servants surround the house, David writes Psalms 59 (Psalms 59:1a). In it he prays for deliverance (Psalms 59:1b-2). Therein he is a type of the remnant. In such circumstances we may trust in God and say that in the morning we will praise Him. At the same time David uses the opportunity offered to escape. He flees in a way like that of Saul, later Paul (Acts 9:24-25).

The use of the idol means that there is an idol in the house of David. Perhaps the application is allowed that this is the way Michal looks at David: she adores him, he is her idol. It leads her to help her husband stay out of her father’s hands. There are women who adore their husband so much that they support him through thick and thin, even in evil. We do not know whether Sapphira, for example, worshiped her husband Ananias, but she did support him in evil and shares his judgment (Acts 5:1-2; 5; 9-10).

The illness that David is said to have is no obstacle to Saul to let him bring to him. He now is that keen on the death of David that he wants to kill him himself to have the certainty of his death.

Michal has a certain love for David, but it is a selfish love. She is not a Saul, but neither is she a wife who follows her husband. Her help to the refugee resembles in the distance the help Rachab gave to the spies (Joshua 2:4-6).

The deceit is discovered. Saul blames Michal very much and calls David “my enemy”. Then Michal’s self-love appears. She speaks of David to her father as someone who has threatened to kill her if she would not help him escape. Michal is not Saul, but certainly also not Jonathan who spoke well of David to his father Saul (1 Samuel 19:4).

1 Samuel 30:8

Michal Helps David to Escape

While Saul’s servants surround the house, David writes Psalms 59 (Psalms 59:1a). In it he prays for deliverance (Psalms 59:1b-2). Therein he is a type of the remnant. In such circumstances we may trust in God and say that in the morning we will praise Him. At the same time David uses the opportunity offered to escape. He flees in a way like that of Saul, later Paul (Acts 9:24-25).

The use of the idol means that there is an idol in the house of David. Perhaps the application is allowed that this is the way Michal looks at David: she adores him, he is her idol. It leads her to help her husband stay out of her father’s hands. There are women who adore their husband so much that they support him through thick and thin, even in evil. We do not know whether Sapphira, for example, worshiped her husband Ananias, but she did support him in evil and shares his judgment (Acts 5:1-2; 5; 9-10).

The illness that David is said to have is no obstacle to Saul to let him bring to him. He now is that keen on the death of David that he wants to kill him himself to have the certainty of his death.

Michal has a certain love for David, but it is a selfish love. She is not a Saul, but neither is she a wife who follows her husband. Her help to the refugee resembles in the distance the help Rachab gave to the spies (Joshua 2:4-6).

The deceit is discovered. Saul blames Michal very much and calls David “my enemy”. Then Michal’s self-love appears. She speaks of David to her father as someone who has threatened to kill her if she would not help him escape. Michal is not Saul, but certainly also not Jonathan who spoke well of David to his father Saul (1 Samuel 19:4).

1 Samuel 30:9

Michal Helps David to Escape

While Saul’s servants surround the house, David writes Psalms 59 (Psalms 59:1a). In it he prays for deliverance (Psalms 59:1b-2). Therein he is a type of the remnant. In such circumstances we may trust in God and say that in the morning we will praise Him. At the same time David uses the opportunity offered to escape. He flees in a way like that of Saul, later Paul (Acts 9:24-25).

The use of the idol means that there is an idol in the house of David. Perhaps the application is allowed that this is the way Michal looks at David: she adores him, he is her idol. It leads her to help her husband stay out of her father’s hands. There are women who adore their husband so much that they support him through thick and thin, even in evil. We do not know whether Sapphira, for example, worshiped her husband Ananias, but she did support him in evil and shares his judgment (Acts 5:1-2; 5; 9-10).

The illness that David is said to have is no obstacle to Saul to let him bring to him. He now is that keen on the death of David that he wants to kill him himself to have the certainty of his death.

Michal has a certain love for David, but it is a selfish love. She is not a Saul, but neither is she a wife who follows her husband. Her help to the refugee resembles in the distance the help Rachab gave to the spies (Joshua 2:4-6).

The deceit is discovered. Saul blames Michal very much and calls David “my enemy”. Then Michal’s self-love appears. She speaks of David to her father as someone who has threatened to kill her if she would not help him escape. Michal is not Saul, but certainly also not Jonathan who spoke well of David to his father Saul (1 Samuel 19:4).

1 Samuel 30:10

Michal Helps David to Escape

While Saul’s servants surround the house, David writes Psalms 59 (Psalms 59:1a). In it he prays for deliverance (Psalms 59:1b-2). Therein he is a type of the remnant. In such circumstances we may trust in God and say that in the morning we will praise Him. At the same time David uses the opportunity offered to escape. He flees in a way like that of Saul, later Paul (Acts 9:24-25).

The use of the idol means that there is an idol in the house of David. Perhaps the application is allowed that this is the way Michal looks at David: she adores him, he is her idol. It leads her to help her husband stay out of her father’s hands. There are women who adore their husband so much that they support him through thick and thin, even in evil. We do not know whether Sapphira, for example, worshiped her husband Ananias, but she did support him in evil and shares his judgment (Acts 5:1-2; 5; 9-10).

The illness that David is said to have is no obstacle to Saul to let him bring to him. He now is that keen on the death of David that he wants to kill him himself to have the certainty of his death.

Michal has a certain love for David, but it is a selfish love. She is not a Saul, but neither is she a wife who follows her husband. Her help to the refugee resembles in the distance the help Rachab gave to the spies (Joshua 2:4-6).

The deceit is discovered. Saul blames Michal very much and calls David “my enemy”. Then Michal’s self-love appears. She speaks of David to her father as someone who has threatened to kill her if she would not help him escape. Michal is not Saul, but certainly also not Jonathan who spoke well of David to his father Saul (1 Samuel 19:4).

1 Samuel 30:11

Michal Helps David to Escape

While Saul’s servants surround the house, David writes Psalms 59 (Psalms 59:1a). In it he prays for deliverance (Psalms 59:1b-2). Therein he is a type of the remnant. In such circumstances we may trust in God and say that in the morning we will praise Him. At the same time David uses the opportunity offered to escape. He flees in a way like that of Saul, later Paul (Acts 9:24-25).

The use of the idol means that there is an idol in the house of David. Perhaps the application is allowed that this is the way Michal looks at David: she adores him, he is her idol. It leads her to help her husband stay out of her father’s hands. There are women who adore their husband so much that they support him through thick and thin, even in evil. We do not know whether Sapphira, for example, worshiped her husband Ananias, but she did support him in evil and shares his judgment (Acts 5:1-2; 5; 9-10).

The illness that David is said to have is no obstacle to Saul to let him bring to him. He now is that keen on the death of David that he wants to kill him himself to have the certainty of his death.

Michal has a certain love for David, but it is a selfish love. She is not a Saul, but neither is she a wife who follows her husband. Her help to the refugee resembles in the distance the help Rachab gave to the spies (Joshua 2:4-6).

The deceit is discovered. Saul blames Michal very much and calls David “my enemy”. Then Michal’s self-love appears. She speaks of David to her father as someone who has threatened to kill her if she would not help him escape. Michal is not Saul, but certainly also not Jonathan who spoke well of David to his father Saul (1 Samuel 19:4).

1 Samuel 30:12

David Flees to Samuel

David does not flee to his family in Bethlehem, but to the old prophet Samuel. In picture he resorts to the Word of God. He chooses the Word as his hiding place. By this Word he has been told that he will become king. He does not see much of this yet. He therefore needs to be reminded of this. He also needs the Word to guide him in the journey that is about to begin.

Here we hear about Samuel again since quite some time. We last heard of him in 1 Samuel 16, when he anointed David king. Then David came to the fore and Samuel withdrew to Ramah. That does not mean that he has become useless, because we see that he is leading a prophet school here. He will also have certainly kept his word, that he said to the people that he would not cease to pray for them (1 Samuel 12:23).

1 Samuel 30:13

Under the Protection of Samuel

Samuel and David withdraw to “Naioth”, which means “dwellings”, which probably refers to the houses of prophets, where prophet schools are located. Under Samuel’s guidance, the prophets are busy becoming familiar with God’s thoughts. There David enters. He, and Samuel, may have thought that Saul would not venture to get there. But Saul does not shy away from it. He sends his messengers out to pick up David from there. Then we see what happens to the messengers when they come into that sacred environment.

The prophets, led by Samuel, are under the power of the Spirit. This power is also exercised over those who come into that sphere. This also happens with the next messengers and with a third group of messengers. Instead of capturing David they are captured themselves. They experience that God is truly among them (cf. 1 Corinthians 14:24-25). It is not about conversion, but about an influence from which one cannot escape. We see something similar in Balaam who wants to curse God’s people but is forced to bless it (Numbers 22:2-6; Numbers 23:11-12; 25-26; Numbers 24:10-13).

Then Saul himself goes. He does not realize at all that David is under the special protection of heaven. His journey to Naioth is described in detail. When he comes to Ramah, he asks not only for David, but for Samuel and David. He connects the two names as the conspirators against the throne on which he sits. When he is on his way, the Spirit of God already comes upon him. The Spirit remains on him and as he goes, he prophesies, until he comes to Samuel. It seems that this is God’s last attempt to make Saul aware he must repent.

The Spirit of God works wherever the Word of God is preached. Everyone who hears it comes under its influence. It leads to an action that one would not first think possible: singing, being touched. Yet the heart remains dark and cold.

Saul strips off his upper garment of royal dignity and lays down only in his underclothes. He is completely under the influence of the Spirit, but not with his mind. Thus, men can have great gifts and prophesy in the Name of Christ and cast out demons, but without knowing grace (Matthew 7:22-23).

Mockingly, later is told of him that he is also among the prophets, as something considered impossible and not recognized as true, but as an untrue matter. Even an unbelieving man like Balaam came under the influence of the Spirit, but without repentance. Thus, a person can come under the influence of God’s Spirit, but without affecting his relationship with God.

1 Samuel 30:14

Under the Protection of Samuel

Samuel and David withdraw to “Naioth”, which means “dwellings”, which probably refers to the houses of prophets, where prophet schools are located. Under Samuel’s guidance, the prophets are busy becoming familiar with God’s thoughts. There David enters. He, and Samuel, may have thought that Saul would not venture to get there. But Saul does not shy away from it. He sends his messengers out to pick up David from there. Then we see what happens to the messengers when they come into that sacred environment.

The prophets, led by Samuel, are under the power of the Spirit. This power is also exercised over those who come into that sphere. This also happens with the next messengers and with a third group of messengers. Instead of capturing David they are captured themselves. They experience that God is truly among them (cf. 1 Corinthians 14:24-25). It is not about conversion, but about an influence from which one cannot escape. We see something similar in Balaam who wants to curse God’s people but is forced to bless it (Numbers 22:2-6; Numbers 23:11-12; 25-26; Numbers 24:10-13).

Then Saul himself goes. He does not realize at all that David is under the special protection of heaven. His journey to Naioth is described in detail. When he comes to Ramah, he asks not only for David, but for Samuel and David. He connects the two names as the conspirators against the throne on which he sits. When he is on his way, the Spirit of God already comes upon him. The Spirit remains on him and as he goes, he prophesies, until he comes to Samuel. It seems that this is God’s last attempt to make Saul aware he must repent.

The Spirit of God works wherever the Word of God is preached. Everyone who hears it comes under its influence. It leads to an action that one would not first think possible: singing, being touched. Yet the heart remains dark and cold.

Saul strips off his upper garment of royal dignity and lays down only in his underclothes. He is completely under the influence of the Spirit, but not with his mind. Thus, men can have great gifts and prophesy in the Name of Christ and cast out demons, but without knowing grace (Matthew 7:22-23).

Mockingly, later is told of him that he is also among the prophets, as something considered impossible and not recognized as true, but as an untrue matter. Even an unbelieving man like Balaam came under the influence of the Spirit, but without repentance. Thus, a person can come under the influence of God’s Spirit, but without affecting his relationship with God.

1 Samuel 30:15

Under the Protection of Samuel

Samuel and David withdraw to “Naioth”, which means “dwellings”, which probably refers to the houses of prophets, where prophet schools are located. Under Samuel’s guidance, the prophets are busy becoming familiar with God’s thoughts. There David enters. He, and Samuel, may have thought that Saul would not venture to get there. But Saul does not shy away from it. He sends his messengers out to pick up David from there. Then we see what happens to the messengers when they come into that sacred environment.

The prophets, led by Samuel, are under the power of the Spirit. This power is also exercised over those who come into that sphere. This also happens with the next messengers and with a third group of messengers. Instead of capturing David they are captured themselves. They experience that God is truly among them (cf. 1 Corinthians 14:24-25). It is not about conversion, but about an influence from which one cannot escape. We see something similar in Balaam who wants to curse God’s people but is forced to bless it (Numbers 22:2-6; Numbers 23:11-12; 25-26; Numbers 24:10-13).

Then Saul himself goes. He does not realize at all that David is under the special protection of heaven. His journey to Naioth is described in detail. When he comes to Ramah, he asks not only for David, but for Samuel and David. He connects the two names as the conspirators against the throne on which he sits. When he is on his way, the Spirit of God already comes upon him. The Spirit remains on him and as he goes, he prophesies, until he comes to Samuel. It seems that this is God’s last attempt to make Saul aware he must repent.

The Spirit of God works wherever the Word of God is preached. Everyone who hears it comes under its influence. It leads to an action that one would not first think possible: singing, being touched. Yet the heart remains dark and cold.

Saul strips off his upper garment of royal dignity and lays down only in his underclothes. He is completely under the influence of the Spirit, but not with his mind. Thus, men can have great gifts and prophesy in the Name of Christ and cast out demons, but without knowing grace (Matthew 7:22-23).

Mockingly, later is told of him that he is also among the prophets, as something considered impossible and not recognized as true, but as an untrue matter. Even an unbelieving man like Balaam came under the influence of the Spirit, but without repentance. Thus, a person can come under the influence of God’s Spirit, but without affecting his relationship with God.

1 Samuel 30:16

Under the Protection of Samuel

Samuel and David withdraw to “Naioth”, which means “dwellings”, which probably refers to the houses of prophets, where prophet schools are located. Under Samuel’s guidance, the prophets are busy becoming familiar with God’s thoughts. There David enters. He, and Samuel, may have thought that Saul would not venture to get there. But Saul does not shy away from it. He sends his messengers out to pick up David from there. Then we see what happens to the messengers when they come into that sacred environment.

The prophets, led by Samuel, are under the power of the Spirit. This power is also exercised over those who come into that sphere. This also happens with the next messengers and with a third group of messengers. Instead of capturing David they are captured themselves. They experience that God is truly among them (cf. 1 Corinthians 14:24-25). It is not about conversion, but about an influence from which one cannot escape. We see something similar in Balaam who wants to curse God’s people but is forced to bless it (Numbers 22:2-6; Numbers 23:11-12; 25-26; Numbers 24:10-13).

Then Saul himself goes. He does not realize at all that David is under the special protection of heaven. His journey to Naioth is described in detail. When he comes to Ramah, he asks not only for David, but for Samuel and David. He connects the two names as the conspirators against the throne on which he sits. When he is on his way, the Spirit of God already comes upon him. The Spirit remains on him and as he goes, he prophesies, until he comes to Samuel. It seems that this is God’s last attempt to make Saul aware he must repent.

The Spirit of God works wherever the Word of God is preached. Everyone who hears it comes under its influence. It leads to an action that one would not first think possible: singing, being touched. Yet the heart remains dark and cold.

Saul strips off his upper garment of royal dignity and lays down only in his underclothes. He is completely under the influence of the Spirit, but not with his mind. Thus, men can have great gifts and prophesy in the Name of Christ and cast out demons, but without knowing grace (Matthew 7:22-23).

Mockingly, later is told of him that he is also among the prophets, as something considered impossible and not recognized as true, but as an untrue matter. Even an unbelieving man like Balaam came under the influence of the Spirit, but without repentance. Thus, a person can come under the influence of God’s Spirit, but without affecting his relationship with God.

1 Samuel 30:17

Under the Protection of Samuel

Samuel and David withdraw to “Naioth”, which means “dwellings”, which probably refers to the houses of prophets, where prophet schools are located. Under Samuel’s guidance, the prophets are busy becoming familiar with God’s thoughts. There David enters. He, and Samuel, may have thought that Saul would not venture to get there. But Saul does not shy away from it. He sends his messengers out to pick up David from there. Then we see what happens to the messengers when they come into that sacred environment.

The prophets, led by Samuel, are under the power of the Spirit. This power is also exercised over those who come into that sphere. This also happens with the next messengers and with a third group of messengers. Instead of capturing David they are captured themselves. They experience that God is truly among them (cf. 1 Corinthians 14:24-25). It is not about conversion, but about an influence from which one cannot escape. We see something similar in Balaam who wants to curse God’s people but is forced to bless it (Numbers 22:2-6; Numbers 23:11-12; 25-26; Numbers 24:10-13).

Then Saul himself goes. He does not realize at all that David is under the special protection of heaven. His journey to Naioth is described in detail. When he comes to Ramah, he asks not only for David, but for Samuel and David. He connects the two names as the conspirators against the throne on which he sits. When he is on his way, the Spirit of God already comes upon him. The Spirit remains on him and as he goes, he prophesies, until he comes to Samuel. It seems that this is God’s last attempt to make Saul aware he must repent.

The Spirit of God works wherever the Word of God is preached. Everyone who hears it comes under its influence. It leads to an action that one would not first think possible: singing, being touched. Yet the heart remains dark and cold.

Saul strips off his upper garment of royal dignity and lays down only in his underclothes. He is completely under the influence of the Spirit, but not with his mind. Thus, men can have great gifts and prophesy in the Name of Christ and cast out demons, but without knowing grace (Matthew 7:22-23).

Mockingly, later is told of him that he is also among the prophets, as something considered impossible and not recognized as true, but as an untrue matter. Even an unbelieving man like Balaam came under the influence of the Spirit, but without repentance. Thus, a person can come under the influence of God’s Spirit, but without affecting his relationship with God.

1 Samuel 30:18

Under the Protection of Samuel

Samuel and David withdraw to “Naioth”, which means “dwellings”, which probably refers to the houses of prophets, where prophet schools are located. Under Samuel’s guidance, the prophets are busy becoming familiar with God’s thoughts. There David enters. He, and Samuel, may have thought that Saul would not venture to get there. But Saul does not shy away from it. He sends his messengers out to pick up David from there. Then we see what happens to the messengers when they come into that sacred environment.

The prophets, led by Samuel, are under the power of the Spirit. This power is also exercised over those who come into that sphere. This also happens with the next messengers and with a third group of messengers. Instead of capturing David they are captured themselves. They experience that God is truly among them (cf. 1 Corinthians 14:24-25). It is not about conversion, but about an influence from which one cannot escape. We see something similar in Balaam who wants to curse God’s people but is forced to bless it (Numbers 22:2-6; Numbers 23:11-12; 25-26; Numbers 24:10-13).

Then Saul himself goes. He does not realize at all that David is under the special protection of heaven. His journey to Naioth is described in detail. When he comes to Ramah, he asks not only for David, but for Samuel and David. He connects the two names as the conspirators against the throne on which he sits. When he is on his way, the Spirit of God already comes upon him. The Spirit remains on him and as he goes, he prophesies, until he comes to Samuel. It seems that this is God’s last attempt to make Saul aware he must repent.

The Spirit of God works wherever the Word of God is preached. Everyone who hears it comes under its influence. It leads to an action that one would not first think possible: singing, being touched. Yet the heart remains dark and cold.

Saul strips off his upper garment of royal dignity and lays down only in his underclothes. He is completely under the influence of the Spirit, but not with his mind. Thus, men can have great gifts and prophesy in the Name of Christ and cast out demons, but without knowing grace (Matthew 7:22-23).

Mockingly, later is told of him that he is also among the prophets, as something considered impossible and not recognized as true, but as an untrue matter. Even an unbelieving man like Balaam came under the influence of the Spirit, but without repentance. Thus, a person can come under the influence of God’s Spirit, but without affecting his relationship with God.

1 Samuel 30:20

Introduction

The history of David is described in detail in these chapters. This is because the Holy Spirit loves him. We love him too and are interested in everything he experiences. It is described vividly. In many details we find what the Lord Jesus experienced. At first David is not yet a fugitive, but he will be in the next chapters. He becomes a fugitive because he refuses to anticipate God’s time and take the law into his own hands. Saul remains for him “the anointed of the LORD”, against whom he will not take up arms as long as he remains this.

In this chapter in David we see a child of God who is looking for the will of God. This is why the chapter is that long. It describes how David resists to become a fugitive. This is not because he does not want to, although it does not attract him, but out of dedication to his duty as a servant of Saul. He does not have the right to leave, to flee. He wants to stay with Saul to the fullest to serve him, and was prepared to undergo anything to that end, not to be an unfaithful slave. Nabal accuses him of this later (1 Samuel 25:10). David only flees when he has no other possibility.

This chapter is also a farewell of two friends who love each other very. This makes the departure for David so painful and unattractive.

David Knows That Saul Wants to Kill Him

David flees to his friend Jonathan and pours out his heart before him. He wonders in despair what he did that his father pursues him that much. Jonathan wants to reassure David. He does not believe his father does. Otherwise he would know. David is not convinced. He knows that Saul will not tell his son everything, because Saul knows well that his son is a friend of David. David can’t help but to see Saul’s desire to get rid of him. He has experienced this several times. He has already escaped Saul’s murderousness several times, but how long will it take before he falls into Saul’s hands? His life is hanging by a thread.

1 Samuel 30:21

Introduction

The history of David is described in detail in these chapters. This is because the Holy Spirit loves him. We love him too and are interested in everything he experiences. It is described vividly. In many details we find what the Lord Jesus experienced. At first David is not yet a fugitive, but he will be in the next chapters. He becomes a fugitive because he refuses to anticipate God’s time and take the law into his own hands. Saul remains for him “the anointed of the LORD”, against whom he will not take up arms as long as he remains this.

In this chapter in David we see a child of God who is looking for the will of God. This is why the chapter is that long. It describes how David resists to become a fugitive. This is not because he does not want to, although it does not attract him, but out of dedication to his duty as a servant of Saul. He does not have the right to leave, to flee. He wants to stay with Saul to the fullest to serve him, and was prepared to undergo anything to that end, not to be an unfaithful slave. Nabal accuses him of this later (1 Samuel 25:10). David only flees when he has no other possibility.

This chapter is also a farewell of two friends who love each other very. This makes the departure for David so painful and unattractive.

David Knows That Saul Wants to Kill Him

David flees to his friend Jonathan and pours out his heart before him. He wonders in despair what he did that his father pursues him that much. Jonathan wants to reassure David. He does not believe his father does. Otherwise he would know. David is not convinced. He knows that Saul will not tell his son everything, because Saul knows well that his son is a friend of David. David can’t help but to see Saul’s desire to get rid of him. He has experienced this several times. He has already escaped Saul’s murderousness several times, but how long will it take before he falls into Saul’s hands? His life is hanging by a thread.

1 Samuel 30:22

Introduction

The history of David is described in detail in these chapters. This is because the Holy Spirit loves him. We love him too and are interested in everything he experiences. It is described vividly. In many details we find what the Lord Jesus experienced. At first David is not yet a fugitive, but he will be in the next chapters. He becomes a fugitive because he refuses to anticipate God’s time and take the law into his own hands. Saul remains for him “the anointed of the LORD”, against whom he will not take up arms as long as he remains this.

In this chapter in David we see a child of God who is looking for the will of God. This is why the chapter is that long. It describes how David resists to become a fugitive. This is not because he does not want to, although it does not attract him, but out of dedication to his duty as a servant of Saul. He does not have the right to leave, to flee. He wants to stay with Saul to the fullest to serve him, and was prepared to undergo anything to that end, not to be an unfaithful slave. Nabal accuses him of this later (1 Samuel 25:10). David only flees when he has no other possibility.

This chapter is also a farewell of two friends who love each other very. This makes the departure for David so painful and unattractive.

David Knows That Saul Wants to Kill Him

David flees to his friend Jonathan and pours out his heart before him. He wonders in despair what he did that his father pursues him that much. Jonathan wants to reassure David. He does not believe his father does. Otherwise he would know. David is not convinced. He knows that Saul will not tell his son everything, because Saul knows well that his son is a friend of David. David can’t help but to see Saul’s desire to get rid of him. He has experienced this several times. He has already escaped Saul’s murderousness several times, but how long will it take before he falls into Saul’s hands? His life is hanging by a thread.

1 Samuel 30:23

David Proposes a Test

Jonathan is a real friend. He wants to help David. He asks what he can do for him and promises that he will do what David asks. He sets no conditions because he knows what David will desire is only good. This is the expression of a heart that loves the other. It is the question and the mind of the believer who loves the Lord Jesus.

David only wants to know what Saul has in mind for him. That is why he suggests a plan to test Saul’s mindset. This plan will also make it clear to Jonathan what his father wants. That goal may be even more important than in gaining certainty himself.

Is this plan misleading, a lie? It is like what Moses says to Pharaoh when he proposes to him to let Israel go a three-day trip far into the wilderness to celebrate a feast there for the LORD. That the ultimate goal is to deliver the people and make them live in Canaan, Moses does not tell. The question Moses asks is the question of a servant for a short leave of absence, which puts Pharaoh’s mindset to the test. It is not about insincerity, but about a test. It is the same with David.

All who are in a place of submission can learn from David. He takes the place of servant toward Jonathan and calls himself so. Jonathan is the son of his lord. He also gives him the right to kill him if there is sin in him, as Saul claims.

1 Samuel 30:24

David Proposes a Test

Jonathan is a real friend. He wants to help David. He asks what he can do for him and promises that he will do what David asks. He sets no conditions because he knows what David will desire is only good. This is the expression of a heart that loves the other. It is the question and the mind of the believer who loves the Lord Jesus.

David only wants to know what Saul has in mind for him. That is why he suggests a plan to test Saul’s mindset. This plan will also make it clear to Jonathan what his father wants. That goal may be even more important than in gaining certainty himself.

Is this plan misleading, a lie? It is like what Moses says to Pharaoh when he proposes to him to let Israel go a three-day trip far into the wilderness to celebrate a feast there for the LORD. That the ultimate goal is to deliver the people and make them live in Canaan, Moses does not tell. The question Moses asks is the question of a servant for a short leave of absence, which puts Pharaoh’s mindset to the test. It is not about insincerity, but about a test. It is the same with David.

All who are in a place of submission can learn from David. He takes the place of servant toward Jonathan and calls himself so. Jonathan is the son of his lord. He also gives him the right to kill him if there is sin in him, as Saul claims.

1 Samuel 30:25

David Proposes a Test

Jonathan is a real friend. He wants to help David. He asks what he can do for him and promises that he will do what David asks. He sets no conditions because he knows what David will desire is only good. This is the expression of a heart that loves the other. It is the question and the mind of the believer who loves the Lord Jesus.

David only wants to know what Saul has in mind for him. That is why he suggests a plan to test Saul’s mindset. This plan will also make it clear to Jonathan what his father wants. That goal may be even more important than in gaining certainty himself.

Is this plan misleading, a lie? It is like what Moses says to Pharaoh when he proposes to him to let Israel go a three-day trip far into the wilderness to celebrate a feast there for the LORD. That the ultimate goal is to deliver the people and make them live in Canaan, Moses does not tell. The question Moses asks is the question of a servant for a short leave of absence, which puts Pharaoh’s mindset to the test. It is not about insincerity, but about a test. It is the same with David.

All who are in a place of submission can learn from David. He takes the place of servant toward Jonathan and calls himself so. Jonathan is the son of his lord. He also gives him the right to kill him if there is sin in him, as Saul claims.

1 Samuel 30:26

David Proposes a Test

Jonathan is a real friend. He wants to help David. He asks what he can do for him and promises that he will do what David asks. He sets no conditions because he knows what David will desire is only good. This is the expression of a heart that loves the other. It is the question and the mind of the believer who loves the Lord Jesus.

David only wants to know what Saul has in mind for him. That is why he suggests a plan to test Saul’s mindset. This plan will also make it clear to Jonathan what his father wants. That goal may be even more important than in gaining certainty himself.

Is this plan misleading, a lie? It is like what Moses says to Pharaoh when he proposes to him to let Israel go a three-day trip far into the wilderness to celebrate a feast there for the LORD. That the ultimate goal is to deliver the people and make them live in Canaan, Moses does not tell. The question Moses asks is the question of a servant for a short leave of absence, which puts Pharaoh’s mindset to the test. It is not about insincerity, but about a test. It is the same with David.

All who are in a place of submission can learn from David. He takes the place of servant toward Jonathan and calls himself so. Jonathan is the son of his lord. He also gives him the right to kill him if there is sin in him, as Saul claims.

1 Samuel 30:27

David Proposes a Test

Jonathan is a real friend. He wants to help David. He asks what he can do for him and promises that he will do what David asks. He sets no conditions because he knows what David will desire is only good. This is the expression of a heart that loves the other. It is the question and the mind of the believer who loves the Lord Jesus.

David only wants to know what Saul has in mind for him. That is why he suggests a plan to test Saul’s mindset. This plan will also make it clear to Jonathan what his father wants. That goal may be even more important than in gaining certainty himself.

Is this plan misleading, a lie? It is like what Moses says to Pharaoh when he proposes to him to let Israel go a three-day trip far into the wilderness to celebrate a feast there for the LORD. That the ultimate goal is to deliver the people and make them live in Canaan, Moses does not tell. The question Moses asks is the question of a servant for a short leave of absence, which puts Pharaoh’s mindset to the test. It is not about insincerity, but about a test. It is the same with David.

All who are in a place of submission can learn from David. He takes the place of servant toward Jonathan and calls himself so. Jonathan is the son of his lord. He also gives him the right to kill him if there is sin in him, as Saul claims.

1 Samuel 30:28

How Jonathan Will Inform David

Jonathan resolutely rejects David’s thought of killing him, for he supposes no evil in David. Furthermore, he will certainly assert his friendship and inform him if he notices his father wants to bring evil upon him. David asks from whom he will hear the true mindset of Saul.

Jonathan does not answer directly but suggests to go out into the field to continue talking. He takes the initiative and David follows. David presents himself royally by being subject to the ruling authority. He does not stand on his rights as the anointed king. He knows what he will become, but does not yet claim what the LORD has not yet given him. He must first learn to obey as a servant before he can rule as king.

Jonathan solemnly promises by the LORD that he will certainly let David know how his father reacts. He will also make sure that nothing will happen to David. He knows that David is the anointed. He wishes the LORD may be with him, as He has been with his father. He submits to the future king after he has let him go as crown prince.

Finally, he asks David for his favor for himself and his family. Here he has a prophetic view of the future. For himself he asks to stay alive when David has become king. He will acknowledge in it the mercy of the LORD. For his house he asks for the mercy of David. As for David, Jonathan knows that the LORD will cut off all his enemies.

1 Samuel 30:29

How Jonathan Will Inform David

Jonathan resolutely rejects David’s thought of killing him, for he supposes no evil in David. Furthermore, he will certainly assert his friendship and inform him if he notices his father wants to bring evil upon him. David asks from whom he will hear the true mindset of Saul.

Jonathan does not answer directly but suggests to go out into the field to continue talking. He takes the initiative and David follows. David presents himself royally by being subject to the ruling authority. He does not stand on his rights as the anointed king. He knows what he will become, but does not yet claim what the LORD has not yet given him. He must first learn to obey as a servant before he can rule as king.

Jonathan solemnly promises by the LORD that he will certainly let David know how his father reacts. He will also make sure that nothing will happen to David. He knows that David is the anointed. He wishes the LORD may be with him, as He has been with his father. He submits to the future king after he has let him go as crown prince.

Finally, he asks David for his favor for himself and his family. Here he has a prophetic view of the future. For himself he asks to stay alive when David has become king. He will acknowledge in it the mercy of the LORD. For his house he asks for the mercy of David. As for David, Jonathan knows that the LORD will cut off all his enemies.

1 Samuel 30:30

How Jonathan Will Inform David

Jonathan resolutely rejects David’s thought of killing him, for he supposes no evil in David. Furthermore, he will certainly assert his friendship and inform him if he notices his father wants to bring evil upon him. David asks from whom he will hear the true mindset of Saul.

Jonathan does not answer directly but suggests to go out into the field to continue talking. He takes the initiative and David follows. David presents himself royally by being subject to the ruling authority. He does not stand on his rights as the anointed king. He knows what he will become, but does not yet claim what the LORD has not yet given him. He must first learn to obey as a servant before he can rule as king.

Jonathan solemnly promises by the LORD that he will certainly let David know how his father reacts. He will also make sure that nothing will happen to David. He knows that David is the anointed. He wishes the LORD may be with him, as He has been with his father. He submits to the future king after he has let him go as crown prince.

Finally, he asks David for his favor for himself and his family. Here he has a prophetic view of the future. For himself he asks to stay alive when David has become king. He will acknowledge in it the mercy of the LORD. For his house he asks for the mercy of David. As for David, Jonathan knows that the LORD will cut off all his enemies.

1 Samuel 30:31

How Jonathan Will Inform David

Jonathan resolutely rejects David’s thought of killing him, for he supposes no evil in David. Furthermore, he will certainly assert his friendship and inform him if he notices his father wants to bring evil upon him. David asks from whom he will hear the true mindset of Saul.

Jonathan does not answer directly but suggests to go out into the field to continue talking. He takes the initiative and David follows. David presents himself royally by being subject to the ruling authority. He does not stand on his rights as the anointed king. He knows what he will become, but does not yet claim what the LORD has not yet given him. He must first learn to obey as a servant before he can rule as king.

Jonathan solemnly promises by the LORD that he will certainly let David know how his father reacts. He will also make sure that nothing will happen to David. He knows that David is the anointed. He wishes the LORD may be with him, as He has been with his father. He submits to the future king after he has let him go as crown prince.

Finally, he asks David for his favor for himself and his family. Here he has a prophetic view of the future. For himself he asks to stay alive when David has become king. He will acknowledge in it the mercy of the LORD. For his house he asks for the mercy of David. As for David, Jonathan knows that the LORD will cut off all his enemies.