1 Samuel 19: Saul Attempts to Kill David

Introduction: 1 Samuel 19 provides a vivid depiction of our hope in adversity and God’s protection over His people. This chapter unfolds the story of David’s narrow escape from king Saul’s murderous intent. It underscores the profound theme of God’s providential hand in preserving His anointed. To understand the unswerving hope found in 1 Samuel 19, the chapter will be analyzed in four sections, each section demonstrating the hope that can be gleaned from the narrative.

I. David’s Narrow Escape (1 Samuel 19:1-7)
This section highlights the plot of Saul to kill David. However, Saul’s son, Jonathan, intercedes on David’s behalf, reminding Saul of David’s loyalty and the great deeds he had done for Israel (1 Samuel 19:4-5). This reflects the hope that God can use people to stand in the gap for us when we face adversity, as seen in Proverbs 17:17 and Romans 8:31.

II. Saul’s Renewed Attempt to Kill David (1 Samuel 19:8-10)
Saul again becomes jealous of David’s victories and tries to pin him to the wall with a spear. But David eludes him twice (1 Samuel 19:10). This section offers hope that when the enemy comes in like a flood, God will provide a way of escape. This reality is affirmed in 1 Corinthians 10:13 and Psalm 37:32-33.

III. David’s Flight to Samuel (1 Samuel 19:11-18)
David flees from Saul and finds refuge with Samuel in Ramah. Even in the face of danger, David finds a safe haven, a representation of God’s protection for those who trust in Him. This aligns with the message in Psalm 46:1 and Proverbs 18:10.

IV. God’s Supernatural Intervention (1 Samuel 19:19-24)
This section outlines the divine intervention that takes place when Saul sends men to capture David. God causes these men, including Saul, to prophesy, thus preventing them from harming David (1 Samuel 19:20-24). This illustrates the hope we have in God’s supernatural protection, as echoed in Isaiah 54:17 and 2 Thessalonians 3:3.

Conclusion: 1 Samuel 19 is a dynamic testimony of God’s protective and providential care over His own. It brings to light the hope that believers have in the face of adversity. The tale of David’s narrow escape from Saul’s wrath serves as a reminder that God can use people to stand up for us, make a way of escape, provide refuge and intervene supernaturally. This narrative reinforces the assurance found in Romans 8:28, that God works everything together for the good of those who love Him. In the midst of trials, we can be like David, rest assured in God’s providence and hold steadfastly onto the hope we have in our Heavenly Father.