1 Samuel 18:1-30

18:1-4 | By placing his own royal robe and armor on David, Jonathan did more than express his covenantal love for his friend. He willingly sacrificed his position as the heir to Israel’s throne and acknowledged David as the nation’s next king – something that Saul would obsessively strive against as long as he lived.

18:5-23 | David showed extreme humility despite his great success. The whole nation was singing his praises, but he continued to serve Saul and even refused the honor of marrying Saul’s daughter Merab because he did not feel worthy. Popularity did not replace his perspective.

18:5 | The phrase he behaved wisely is used two other times in this chapter to describe David’s character. David’s success began when he killed the giant, but it continued in everything else he did because he did not let the prosperity blind him to his need for God’s wisdom.

18:7-9 | With the Lord’s authority removed from him, Saul’s authority rested almost entirely on his military achievements. To maintain his position, he had to be recognized as the strongest man in the kingdom. The women’s song sparked Saul’s insane jealousy of David, marking the turning point in their relationship. From that day forward, Saul would seek to remove David as a threat to the throne.

18:12-29 | Recognizing that the Lord was with David only served to make Saul more jealous and fearful. Nevertheless, he refused to humble himself and repent.

18:28-29 | The people closest to Saul – even his own daughter – were choosing David over the king. It was obvious to everyone that the Lord was present in David’s life. And when God is evident in a person’s life, he or she is bound to make enemies, especially among those who are not living right. John the Baptist lived a holy life, and it caused the people to fear him. Jesus lived a holy life, and it caused people to hate Him. David’s success created a new foe, and for the rest of Saul’s life, he would create trouble for David.