David is annointed King of Judah, but not of Israel. Saul's son Ishbosheth is made king of Israel by Abner, Saul's general. A short civil war breaks-out, but the house of Saul is too powerful for the house of David. Nonetheless, God is working out his plan, slow as it may be, to give the kingdom to David.

Jesus teaches his disciples to wait patiently on him, even when life stinks! We hear of God's patience and power in three parables. These parables are taught around the story of a woman who had a disabling spirit for 18 years. May we, like her, find hope and confidence in Christ, even when life stinks.

Saul's last act of desperate defiance is suicide. His boys killed in battle, himself mortally wounded, he ends his own life. A tragic end to a story that began with so much hope and promise, all because he refused to listen to the Lord.

With the Lord no longer answering his prayers, Saul consults with a medium to conjure old Samuel up from the grave. From beyond the grave, Samuel predicts the fall of Saul and his family. This story of the medium of En Dor allows us to reflect on the reality of dark spiritual forces in the world.

This all-time favorite parable turns the world upside-down as the master serves his servants. Too often, people in positions of power or authority serve themselves, neglecting the common good. As God's children, God's character is seen in us when we serve others, as He has served us.

A wise woman Abigail interceeds with David on behalf of her arrogant husband and convinces David that showing mercy is a better way to get your way than acting in wrath. In the very next chapter, David has opportunity to kill Saul, but chooses mercy instead. Despite David's propensity towards violence, he exercises much mercy in these chapters.

David, even while hiding from Saul, rises to rescue the town of Keilah. Betrayed by those he rescued, he retreats to En Gedi, where he gets a chance to take the life or his arch-enemy Saul. Instead, he shows Saul mercy, buying a slight reprieve by a ninja-like act of bravery.

Jesus takes time, on His journey to Jerusalem, to teach His disciples the blessing of setting their hearts on the things of God. It is too easy for us to get distracted, and miss out on the Lord's blessing. Putting first things first keeps us on track and living into the Lord's will for our lives.

Saul is so consumed by his anger that he orders the execution of many priests. He accuses them of treason for aiding David. These innocent prophets die for their righteousness, and so become a great encouragement for us to stand up against evil, regardless of the consequences.

David and Jonathan grow close, even while Jonathan's father King Saul tries, on a number of occasions, to kill David. Here we learn a lesson of true friendship. David and Jonathan will love each other with undying love, even though the anger of Saul and the events of life separate them for the foreseeable future.