David Refuses to Take Revenge on Saul

After a long time running away from Saul, David finally has his opportunity (under somewhat embarrassing circumstances) to strike Saul dead. David, in spite of the pleadings of his men, refuses. He will not lift up his hand against the LORD's anointed. Rather than snatching the kingdom for himself, he chooses to wait until the LORD enthrones him.

David prefigures Jesus who also refused to take vengeance on his enemies. Jesus also was tempted to grasp His kingdom prematurely (see Matthew 4). Like David, Jesus was encouraged by his closest friends to take a crown without a cross (see Mark 8). Jesus, like David followed the Father's will and gained His glorious kingdom (and our redemption) as a result.

We, like David and Jesus, will be tempted to take revenge on those who have hurt us. This text teaches us how we can resist the temptation to return evil for evil. We also will be tempted to take shortcuts in life. Instead of following feelings, listening to worldly counsel, or seeking our own ease; we are called to be faithful to God's revealed word even if it means we must follow in Jesus steps of suffering.