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THE ENCOUNTER IN THE WILDERNESS OF ZIPH
MONDAY, DECEMBER 16
1 Samuel 26

Proverbs 21:21-23

 

“A wise man scaleth

the city of the mighty….”

 

THE ENCOUNTER IN THE WILDERNESS OF ZIPH
 
During the brief ceasefire, the men of Ziph spotted David in their midst. They reported to King Saul. The king quickly assembled an army of three thousand to pursue after David. The king had earlier sent word around that if anyone saw David, they should inform him. He had quickly forgotten that David had spared his life earlier in the cave. He revived his objective to capture and get rid of David. Though he had a network of informants, David proved smarter than him. When he and his men came, they searched everywhere for David during the day.
 
When night came, Saul’s men pitched on the hill of Hachilah and slept in an open field. David’s spies took note of where the king laid. Abishai asked David for permission to kill Saul, but David overruled him. David took the king’s spear and a cruse of water without any violence. This was no mean achievement in a military operation. David proved himself again as one led by the Spirit of God. He had done his calculations well. He did not shed blood. Prior to this confrontational relationship, David was among the household staff of the king. He was a singer and an army commander. He knew Saul and how to deal with him when he was under pressure. The whole army and the king slept heavily. David stood by his principle that Saul was the Lord’s anointed, and he ought not to kill him.
 
David was courageous because he was sure of the final outcome. The Lord had revealed to him that he would be king. He had the responsibility to ensure that he was not exposed to the enemy and be killed. He took preventive measures to see to it that he fulfilled his goals. David had such wisdom, and he soldiered on even when the signs seemed contrary. He decided to confront Saul face to face. As a man of war, he carried his weapons. He could use them in self-defence. However, David knew that the Lord would grant him the needed support. He acknowledged God’s hand in all his moves. His life was in danger, but his approach was a nonviolent one. Only God could give him such wisdom.
 
THOUGHT: God is always a shield to those who follow Him faithfully.

PRAYER: Father, may Thy protective care be with me continuously.

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