‏ 1 Samuel 19

* Jonathan reconciles his father to David, Saul again tries to

slay him. (1-10) David flees to Samuel. (11-24)

1-10 How forcible are right words! Saul was, for a time,

convinced of the unreasonableness of his enmity to David; but he

continued his malice against David. So incurable is the hatred

of the seed of the serpent against that of the woman; so

deceitful and desperately wicked is the heart of man without the

grace of God, #Jer 17:9|. 11-24 Michal's stratagem to gain time till David got to a

distance was allowable, but her falsehood had not even the plea

of necessity to excuse it, and manifests that she was not

influenced by the same spirit of piety which had dictated

Jonathan's language to Saul. In flying to Samuel, David made God

his refuge. Samuel, as a prophet, was best able to advise him

what to do in this day of distress. He met with little rest or

satisfaction in Saul's court, therefore went to seek it in

Samuel's church. What little pleasure is to be had in this

world, those have who live a life of communion with God; to that

David returned in the time of trouble. So impatient was Saul

after David's blood, so restless against him, that although

baffled by one providence after another, he could not see that

David was under the special protection of God. And when God will

take this way to protect David, even Saul prophesies. Many have

great gifts, yet no grace; they may prophesy in Christ's name,

yet are disowned by him. Let us daily seek for renewing grace,

which shall be in us as a well of water springing up into

everlasting life. Let us cleave to truth and holiness with full

purpose of heart. In every danger and trouble, let us seek

protection, comfort, and direction in God's ordinances.