1 Samuel 19:10

Saul tried to pin him to the wall with his spear. But the spear struck the wall and David eluded him, ran away, and escaped that night.

Study Bible

Saul tried to pin him to the wall with his spear.
This phrase highlights Saul's growing hostility and jealousy towards David, which had been building since David's victory over Goliath and his subsequent popularity. Saul's attempt to kill David with a spear is a physical manifestation of his inner turmoil and spiritual decline. The spear, a weapon of war, symbolizes Saul's intent to destroy David, whom he sees as a threat to his throne. This act of aggression is not the first; Saul had previously attempted to harm David in a similar manner (1 Samuel 18:10-11). The repeated use of the spear can be seen as a symbol of Saul's persistent but ultimately futile attempts to thwart God's plan for David. Saul's actions contrast with David's earlier refusal to wear Saul's armor, highlighting the difference between Saul's reliance on physical weapons and David's trust in God.

But David eluded him and the spear struck the wall.
David's ability to elude Saul's attack demonstrates God's providential protection over him. Throughout David's life, we see a pattern of divine intervention that preserves him from harm, underscoring his role as God's chosen king. The spear striking the wall instead of David can be seen as a metaphor for the futility of opposing God's will. This incident foreshadows the many times David will escape Saul's attempts on his life, emphasizing the theme of God's sovereignty and faithfulness. The wall, a symbol of stability and protection, ironically becomes a witness to Saul's instability and failure. This moment also prefigures the New Testament theme of Jesus eluding those who sought to harm Him until the appointed time of His crucifixion (John 7:30).

And David fled and escaped that night.
David's flight marks the beginning of a period of exile and hardship, during which he will be refined and prepared for kingship. His escape is a pivotal moment in his life, as it sets the stage for his development as a leader and a man after God's own heart. The mention of "that night" emphasizes the urgency and danger of the situation, as well as the darkness that often accompanies trials and testing. David's experience parallels the experiences of other biblical figures, such as Moses and Jesus, who also faced periods of exile and opposition before fulfilling their divine missions. This phrase also highlights the theme of God's deliverance, as David's escape is not just a result of his own cunning, but of God's intervention and protection.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Saul
The first king of Israel, anointed by Samuel, who becomes increasingly jealous and hostile towards David.

2. David
The young shepherd anointed by God to be the future king of Israel, known for his faithfulness and courage.

3. Spear
A weapon used by Saul in his attempt to kill David, symbolizing Saul's growing animosity and irrational behavior.

4. Wall
The physical barrier in Saul's palace where the spear was lodged, representing the danger David faced.

5. Escape
David's successful evasion of Saul's attack, highlighting God's protection over him.

Teaching Points

God's Protection
Despite human intentions to harm, God's plans for His anointed will prevail. David's escape is a testament to divine protection.

Responding to Hostility
David's response to Saul's aggression was not retaliation but trust in God. Believers are called to respond to hostility with faith and patience.

The Dangers of Jealousy
Saul's jealousy led to irrational behavior and attempts to harm an innocent man. Jealousy can consume and destroy relationships if not checked.

Faith in Action
David's actions demonstrate faith in God's promises. Even in danger, he acted wisely and trusted in God's timing for his future.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does David's response to Saul's aggression reflect his faith in God, and how can we apply this in our own lives when facing hostility?

2. What does Saul's repeated attempts to harm David teach us about the destructive nature of jealousy and how can we guard against it?

3. In what ways does this passage demonstrate God's sovereignty and protection over His chosen ones?

4. How can we apply the principle of leaving vengeance to God in our daily interactions, especially when wronged by others?

5. Reflect on a time when you faced a difficult situation. How can David's example of faith and trust in God encourage you in similar circumstances?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Samuel 18:10-11
Earlier attempts by Saul to harm David, showing a pattern of Saul's jealousy and aggression.

Psalm 59
A psalm attributed to David during this time, expressing his trust in God's deliverance from his enemies.

Matthew 5:44
Jesus' teaching on loving and praying for one's enemies, which can be seen in David's later interactions with Saul.

Romans 12:19
Paul's instruction on leaving vengeance to God, reflecting David's refusal to harm Saul despite having opportunities.