Big Idea: The Lord protects and grants success to his chosen servants.

Understanding the Text

The tension between Saul and David has been building in the story line. At first, Saul’s successor was described as one who is in touch with God and superior to Saul (13:14; 15:28), but he was not named. In chapters 16 and 17 he appears and quickly demonstrates his qualifications by bringing the king relief from his distress and then leading Israel to a great victory. All seems to be well. Impressed by David’s prowess and success, Saul made him a full-time member of the royal court and gave him a promotion within the army. Divine providence has moved David even closer to the throne he is destined to possess.

However, the narrator quickly informs us that the road to the throne will not be easy. …