CROWNED WITH HOPE—HIS SUBMISSION : David’s Preservation and Enduring

So David went out wherever Saul sent him, and behaved wisely. And Saul set him over the men of war, and he was accepted in the sight of all the people and also in the sight of Saul’s servants.  Now it had happened as they were coming home, when David was returning from the slaughter of the Philistine, that the women had come out of all the cities of Israel, singing and dancing, to meet King Saul, with tambourines, with joy, and with musical instruments.  So the women sang as they danced, and said: “Saul has slain his thousands, And David his ten thousands.”  Then Saul was very angry, and the saying displeased him; and he said, “They have ascribed to David ten thousands, and to me they have ascribed only thousands. Now what more can he have but the kingdom?”  So Saul eyed David from that day forward.  ‎And it happened on the next day that the distressing spirit from God came upon Saul, and he prophesied inside the house. So David played music with his hand, as at other times; but there was a spear in Saul’s hand.  ‎And Saul cast the spear, for he said, “I will pin David to the wall!” But David escaped his presence twice.  (1 Samuel 18:5-11)

This was the first attempt of Saul to kill David.  The second one soon followed.  This would be the opening act of a deadly drama where a jealous rage led to what seemed perpetual peril for God’s man. 

But the Lord preserved him, each dangerous step of the journey.  It was a long and winding road as David was chased by a madman for eight weary years! 

During that period, there were two occasions when David could have taken matters into his own hands.  He had opportunity to kill his foe, but he waited on the Lord.  There was a confident hope and tenacious faith that sustained him.  He learned as he hid in caves and behind rocks that the Lord was his Refuge and Strength.

His song could have been, “Through many dangers, toils and snares, I have already come; ‘Tis grace hath brought me safe thus far, and grace will lead me home.”   We can join in that refrain.  That same grace will sustain you.

My legs are buckling, my back is bowed, my feet are like lead—but by the help of God, I go forward to face this day.

Don’t give up!  It’s always too soon to quit.  There is a crowning hope that awaits those who press on.