Through the Bible: 1st SamuelSample

Not Fear, But Prays

But if my father is inclined to harm you, may the Lord deal with me, be it ever so severely, if I do not let you know and send you away safely.  May the Lord be with you as he has been with my father. But show me unfailing kindness like that of the Lord as long as I live, so that I may not be killed, and do not ever cut off your kindness from my family – not even when the Lord has cut off every one of David’s enemies from the face of the earth.

1 Samuel 20:13-15  (ESV)

Saul has developed great jealousy towards David, which spiraled into irreversible hatred and fear. He was determined to kill David despite the counsel of his own son, Jonathan.  Evil has a way to take root in our hearts, including King Saul.  We must be careful not to harbor jealousy and discontent in our hearts, as this will eventually push us away from God and His right path. 

We also read about David’s fleeing from Saul’s killing with the help of Jonathan, who is also David’s best friend.  Jonathan is righteous, caring, and he is not afraid to stand by God’s goodness to disagree with his father, even when Saul was threatening him (20:33).  Jonathan prayed heartily for David (20:13-15) but also showed respect to his own father despite his anger towards him.   

Prayer:

Father God, when we are wronged by others or circumstances and face big threats in life, let us stand firm in You and not be overwhelmed by evil like Saul. Instead, make us like Jonathan, who does not fear, but prays and abides in Your everlasting truth, and asks for Your help humbly.  Thank You for listening and responding to our plea, Father. Your help is always timely. In Jesus’s name, Amen.