1 Samuel 26:18

And he continued, "Why is my lord pursuing his servant? What have I done? What evil is in my hand?

Study Bible

And he continued,
This phrase indicates that David is in the midst of a dialogue, continuing a conversation. The context is a confrontation between David and King Saul. David has just spared Saul's life for the second time, demonstrating his respect for God's anointed king despite Saul's pursuit of him. This ongoing dialogue reflects David's patience and persistence in seeking reconciliation and understanding.

“Why is my lord pursuing his servant?
David addresses Saul with respect, calling him "my lord," which acknowledges Saul's position as king. The term "servant" reflects David's humility and his previous role in Saul's court. This question highlights the unjust nature of Saul's pursuit, as David has consistently shown loyalty. The pursuit is a result of Saul's jealousy and fear, as seen in earlier chapters where Saul becomes increasingly paranoid about David's rising popularity and God's favor upon him.

What have I done?
David's question is rhetorical, emphasizing his innocence. Throughout 1 Samuel, David's actions have been honorable, and he has not committed any offense against Saul. This question invites Saul to reflect on his actions and the baselessness of his accusations. It also echoes the broader biblical theme of the innocent suffering unjustly, a motif seen in the lives of other biblical figures such as Joseph and ultimately Jesus Christ.

What evil is in my hand?
The phrase "in my hand" suggests actions or deeds. David is asserting that he has not committed any wrongdoing or evil act against Saul. This is significant because David had the opportunity to kill Saul but chose not to, demonstrating his integrity and trust in God's justice. The imagery of the hand is often used in scripture to symbolize power and action, and here it underscores David's restraint and righteousness. This restraint foreshadows the teachings of Jesus, who advocated for love and forgiveness towards one's enemies.

Persons / Places / Events

1. David
The future king of Israel, anointed by Samuel, who is currently being pursued by King Saul. David is known for his faithfulness to God and his refusal to harm Saul, despite being unjustly hunted.

2. Saul
The first king of Israel, who has become increasingly paranoid and jealous of David, fearing the loss of his throne. Saul's pursuit of David is driven by insecurity and disobedience to God.

3. The Wilderness of Ziph
A desert area where David and his men are hiding. It is a place of refuge for David but also a place of testing and reliance on God.

4. Abishai
David's nephew and one of his loyal warriors, who accompanies David into Saul's camp and offers to kill Saul, but David restrains him.

5. The Camp of Saul
The location where Saul and his men are encamped, and where David demonstrates his integrity by sparing Saul's life.

Teaching Points

Integrity in Adversity
David's question to Saul highlights his innocence and integrity. Believers are called to maintain their integrity even when falsely accused or pursued by adversaries.

Trust in God's Justice
David's restraint in not harming Saul demonstrates his trust in God's justice. Christians are encouraged to rely on God to vindicate them rather than taking matters into their own hands.

Responding to Persecution
David's respectful address to Saul, despite Saul's hostility, teaches believers to respond to persecution with grace and respect.

The Power of a Clear Conscience
David's ability to confront Saul with confidence stems from his clear conscience. Maintaining a clear conscience before God and others empowers believers to stand firm in truth.

The Role of Godly Counsel
David's interaction with Abishai shows the importance of surrounding oneself with godly counsel that encourages righteousness and restraint.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does David's question to Saul in 1 Samuel 26:18 reflect his understanding of his own innocence and integrity? How can we apply this understanding in our own lives when facing false accusations?

2. In what ways does David's response to Saul's pursuit demonstrate trust in God's justice? How can we cultivate a similar trust in our own situations?

3. How does David's interaction with Saul in this chapter illustrate the principle of loving one's enemies as taught by Jesus in the New Testament?

4. What role does a clear conscience play in David's ability to confront Saul? How can maintaining a clear conscience impact our relationships and interactions with others?

5. How does the presence of Abishai and his counsel influence David's actions? What can we learn about the importance of surrounding ourselves with godly counsel and accountability?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Psalm 7
David's plea for justice and vindication, reflecting his innocence and trust in God's righteousness, similar to his question in 1 Samuel 26:18.

Matthew 5:44
Jesus' teaching on loving enemies, which parallels David's refusal to harm Saul despite being pursued unjustly.

Romans 12:19
Paul's instruction to leave vengeance to God, echoing David's decision not to take revenge on Saul.