March 29th

March 29th -- 1 Samuel 18 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20Samuel%2018&version=NLT)

Saul becomes jealous of David ; David marries Saul's daughter

So after David talks with Saul about killing Goliath, he meets Jonathan, who is Saul's son. They become immediate friends, even making a pact to remain friends no matter what. Also, Saul decided to keep David there with him/them. David was also put in charge of the army, as he was successful in everything he did.

However, as the Israelites return home, they sing of David's greatness and make it seem far more than Saul's, which causes Saul to become jealous. Because of this, a tormenting spirit came upon Saul. David was playing his harp like he normally did, but Saul had a spear and tried to kill him. David escaped twice. Saul was afraid of David after that, so he sent him off and put him in charge of just a small force, which David led successfully. David became only more successful, as God was with him, and though Saul was frightened by this, the rest of the Israelites adored him for it.

Saul, one day, though, tells David he wants to give him his eldest daughter, Merab, to David as a wife. Saul says that first, though, David must prove himself to be a real soldier! David is shocked at the idea of his family, which has no royal connection, becoming royally connected by his being son-in-law to the king! So, Saul instead gave Merab to another man. While this is going on, though, another of Saul's daughters, Michal, falls in love with David. Saul offers Michal to David, but David sends Saul's men back asking how his family can possibly afford her bride price. Saul sees his chance and days the price will be 100 Philistine foreskins, for all he wanted was vengeance on his enemies. David likes this offer and goes out and kills 200 Philistine men, so Saul gives him Michal to be his wife. Saul became further afraid after this, seeing how much his daughter really loved David and how much God was with David. Each time Philistines attacked, David was more successful than everyone else, and he became quite famous for it!

I am terribly sorry, but I have little to say for this passage. I find it fascinating that Saul becomes so jealous of David, even trying to kill him, and nobody notices. One would think David would have said something. I guess at the times it was not appropriate. Also, one would think Saul would not be jealous but recognize that just as God had chosen him, He was now choosing David. I guess power just becomes addicting, in a way, and it's hard to let go of. I'm not really sure.

Well, that will be all! God bless! Shalom!