Text: 1 Samuel 19:1-24
In 18:29, we learn that David became Saul’s perpetual enemy, not because David was evil but because Saul was envious and hateful. Although Jonathan was always trying to defend David and prove to Saul that David was a faithful servant, the King raged against David. Saul even deployed spies to assist him in his pursuit of David.
The work of redemption has always been in the context of conflict. Ever since Cain killed his brother, Abel, out of jealousy, those who belong to grace, the seed of the woman (Gen.3:15), have been the target of those who belong to Satan. Jesus was assaulted by secular rulers, religious authorities, commoners, and spies. In that context of conflict, even because of it, Jesus always won. We, too, will find that our discipleship faces conflict, from the outside and from within ourselves. Persevere! God’s grace is sufficient (2 Cor. 12.9).
Meditate on verse 9. What is God teaching you in this verse?
Our Father in heaven, in the name of Jesus Christ, I thank You for the gift of faithful friends and pray for protection from my enemies and enemies of Your Kingdom. Amen.