1 Samuel 26:23

May the LORD repay every man for his righteousness and faithfulness. For the LORD delivered you into my hand today, but I would not stretch out my hand against the LORD's anointed.

Study Bible

May the LORD repay every man for his righteousness and faithfulness.
This phrase reflects the biblical principle of divine justice and reward. Throughout Scripture, righteousness and faithfulness are qualities highly esteemed by God. In the context of 1 Samuel, David speaks these words to Saul, emphasizing his own integrity and trust in God's justice. The idea that God rewards righteousness is echoed in passages like Psalm 18:20 and Proverbs 11:18. The cultural context of ancient Israel placed a strong emphasis on covenant faithfulness, both to God and to others, which David exemplifies here. This statement also foreshadows New Testament teachings, such as in Matthew 5:12, where Jesus speaks of rewards in heaven for those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake.

For the LORD delivered you into my hand today,
David acknowledges God's sovereignty in the events that transpired. The phrase underscores the belief that God orchestrates circumstances according to His will. In the narrative, David had the opportunity to kill Saul, who was pursuing him unjustly, but he refrained. This reflects a deep trust in God's timing and justice. The historical context shows that David was anointed as the future king, yet he waited for God's timing rather than taking matters into his own hands. This reliance on divine providence is a recurring theme in David's life, as seen in his psalms and actions.

but I would not extend my hand against the LORD’s anointed.
David's refusal to harm Saul, despite having the opportunity, highlights his respect for God's chosen king. The term "the LORD’s anointed" refers to Saul's status as the king of Israel, anointed by the prophet Samuel. This respect for God's anointed is a significant theme in the Old Testament, where anointing signifies God's selection and empowerment for a specific role. David's restraint is a demonstration of his reverence for God's authority and order. This act of mercy and respect for God's anointed can be seen as a type of Christ, who also showed mercy and refrained from using His power for personal gain. David's actions prefigure the teachings of Jesus, who emphasized love for enemies and submission to God's will, as seen in Matthew 5:44 and Luke 22:42.

Persons / Places / Events

1. David
The future king of Israel, anointed by God, who demonstrates restraint and respect for God's anointed king, Saul, despite being pursued by him.

2. Saul
The current king of Israel, who is pursuing David to kill him, yet is spared by David in this encounter.

3. The Wilderness of Ziph
The location where this event takes place, highlighting the ongoing tension and pursuit between Saul and David.

4. Abishai
David's companion who accompanies him into Saul's camp and suggests killing Saul, but is restrained by David.

5. The LORD
The central figure in this account, whose justice and sovereignty are acknowledged by David as he refrains from harming Saul.

Teaching Points

Respect for God's Anointed
David's refusal to harm Saul, despite having the opportunity, teaches us to respect those whom God has placed in authority, even when they are flawed.

Trust in Divine Justice
David's actions demonstrate a deep trust in God's justice and timing, encouraging believers to rely on God to right wrongs rather than taking matters into their own hands.

Righteousness and Faithfulness
The verse highlights the importance of living a life of righteousness and faithfulness, trusting that God sees and rewards such behavior.

Restraint and Mercy
David's restraint in not killing Saul is a powerful example of mercy, reminding us to show mercy to others, even when it is within our power to harm them.

God's Sovereignty
Recognizing God's control over situations, as David did, can bring peace and patience in times of trial and conflict.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does David's respect for Saul as the LORD's anointed challenge us in our interactions with authority figures today?

2. In what ways can we demonstrate trust in God's justice in our personal conflicts, as David did with Saul?

3. How does the concept of divine reward for righteousness and faithfulness encourage you in your daily walk with God?

4. What are some practical ways we can show mercy to those who have wronged us, following David's example?

5. How can understanding God's sovereignty over our circumstances help us respond to challenges with patience and faith?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Psalm 18:20-24
David speaks of the LORD rewarding him according to his righteousness, echoing the theme of divine recompense for faithfulness.

Romans 12:19
Paul advises believers to leave vengeance to God, aligning with David's decision not to harm Saul.

Matthew 5:44
Jesus teaches to love your enemies, which David exemplifies by sparing Saul's life.