Today’s passage: 1 Samuel 18:17-30
Helpful thoughts:
- Saul had promised his daughter in marriage to whomever defeated Goliath in 17:25.
- Saul liked the idea of offering Michal to David for two reasons:
- To encourage him into battle (To risk his life)
- To be a “snare” to him. This word is used in a spiritual context. Michal was most likely caught up in forms of idolatry and Saul hoped she would pull David away from the Lord who was blessing him!
- Saul intended this marriage offer for David’s harm. Instead the marriage, Michal’s love for David, David’s place in the family of the king, and all his growing military fame is making David an ever increasing threat to Saul’s power/dynasty.
Questions to consider:
- How are Proverbs 16:9 and Proverbs 21:1 on full display in these passages concerning Saul’s efforts to eliminate David?
- If Saul knew the Lord was with David and responded to that knowledge by being David’s enemy continually, what has Saul chosen concerning the Lord? When did Saul like or dislike the Lord’s actions? What does Saul think about the merit or justification of his own actions?
- Whose dynasty is worth living for? (Revelation 5)