David: An Object Lesson in Waiting

In 1 Samuel 16:1–13, we see David anointed by Samuel as king. However,

it was a long journey from the fields of his father, Jesse, to the throne in

Jerusalem. No doubt, at times, he felt he was in the midst of a crucible.

First, the lad is called to play music to soothe Saul’s troubled spirit

(1 Samuel 16). Later, he becomes Israel’s hero as he kills Goliath

(1 Samuel 17). Then there are many years during which David is run-

ning for his life. Both Saul and his son Jonathan know that David is

destined to be the next king (1 Sam. 23:17, 1 Sam. 24:20). But David

does nothing to advance his God-given destiny. In fact, he appears to do

the opposite. Even when Saul tries to kill him and David snips a piece

of cloth off the king’s robe, he wishes he had never done such a thing

(1 Sam. 24:5–7). Again when Saul is trying to kill David, David refuses

to kill Saul when the opportunity arises (1 Sam. 26:7–11).

Read 1 Samuel 26:1–11. Why does David refuse to kill Saul? What

principles does this teach us about the way God brings about His

plans for our lives?

Now read 1 Samuel 26:12–25. How does David’s refusal to kill Saul affect

Saul? What does this teach us about the advantages of waiting for God?

Looking at the whole of David’s road to the throne, we could perhaps

summarize it in a short sentence—don’t grab what God has not yet

given. God’s gifts are always best received from His hand and in His

time. This may require a very long time of waiting. Bean sprouts may

literally grow up within hours, while an oak tree will take many years.

But then when the strong winds come, the tree will not be uprooted.

Think about how easily David could have justified killing Saul.

(After all, David was told he’d have the throne, and Saul was so

evil anyway.) Yet, his actions speak of true faith in God. What

conclusion might you be able to draw from this example for your-

self in light of whatever you might be waiting for?