Scripture
1 Samuel 19:9,10-“Now there was an evil spirit from the Lord on Saul as he was sitting in his house with his spear in his hand, and David was playing the harp with his hand. And Saul tried to pin David to the wall with the spear, but he escaped from Saul’s presence, so that he stuck the spear into the wall. And David fled and escaped that night."
Observation
Saul’s infamous spear throwing was the last straw for David that sent him on the greatest escape adventure of his life. Dealing with a person like Saul who erupted with jealousy and anger condemn him to be a toxic presence to be in company with. His own kids turned on him to help David escape as well!
David knew if he stayed any longer the waging war within Saul would not subside. Most of the time we think running away from a fight is a sign of cowardice or weakness. But here David teaches us more about patience, honor, and trust. He had all the right to throw spears back at Saul but instead, he flees.
Application
Learning to flee from spears comes with many examples in life I have faced when someone says a cunning word, being around a person who is easily angered or offended or there’s just something about a person who doesn’t enjoy your presence. David becomes my teacher of being a professional spear Fleer. David teaches me about patience. I have been there many times where I have insulted back, yet David did the opposite, he was patient. The fact David was winning battles, tells me he was not afraid of Saul but giving him grace and a chance to change his heart.
David teaches me to honor instead of retaliation. David knew he would not touch the Lord’s anointed one even when it was given right into his hands. (1 Samuel 23:14-24:22; 26) David teaches me to trust in God. I have many clueless moments with a person not knowing what to do. How do I confront? How do I make amends? Why does this person give such a hard time? David learned to trust in God. Every emotion that had flared up within him, he brought it to the Lord, which is the book of Psalms that is the portfolio of what David went through. See fleeing from Spears as a sign of strength. It’s a belief that God has a purpose for those who throw spears. When moments come, again and again, I need to be Patient, Honor, and Trust God.
Prayer
Lord,
You are good and I trust the work of your hands. Father, thank you for the lessons from David who helps saves me from regretting moments because of an emotional decision. Lord help me to discern that not all fights need to be fought and not all fights need be won. May I run to you as David did and stick close to you! Amen
