Bible Pathways - April 8, 2006

April 8, 2006

In Today's Reading:

David's escape; Saul murders the priests of Nob; David protects the Israelites in Keilah; David will not kill Saul

Nob was located just northeast of Jerusalem, where the sacred vessels had been kept by the priests since the destruction of Shiloh. Ahimelech the priest had given David food and allowed him to take the sword that had belonged to Goliath.This was reported to Saul in Gibeah by Doeg, an Edomite servant. In a rage of anger, the king sent to call Ahimelech the priest . . . and all his father's house, the priests that were in Nob: and they came all of them to the king (I Samuel 22:11). Saul then accused Ahimelech of conspiracy. Then Ahimelech answered the king, and said, And who is so faithful among all thy servants as David, which is the king's son in law, and goeth at thy bidding, and is honourable (respected) in thine house? (22:14).

Blinded by jealousy and hatred, Saul ordered the execution of all the priests and their families. And the king said unto the footmen (guards) that stood about him, Turn, and slay the priests of the LORD; because their hand also is with David, and because they knew when he fled, and did not shew it to me. But the servants of the king would not put forth their hand to fall upon the priests of the LORD (22:17). Without hesitation, Doeg the Edomite . . . slew on that day fourscore and five (85) persons that did wear a linen ephod (priestly garment). And Nob, the city of the priests, smote he with the edge of the sword, both men and women, children and sucklings, and oxen, and asses, and sheep, with the edge of the sword. And one of the sons of Ahimelech . . . named Abiathar, escaped, and fled after David (22:18-20). This was one of numerous attempts by Saul to murder David (I Samuel 18:11,21-25; 19:1,10-11,15,20-22; 20:24-31; 23:11-25; 24:2; 26:2).

There are times in the lives of most Christians when everything seems hopeless, as it must have for David who was forced into hiding for many years. In fact, we all experience times when we need to be encouraged about ourselves, our gifts and talents, our work, our children, or even our relationship with the Lord. This was also true of David, who received spiritual direction and comfort from Abiathar and prophets such as Gad (22:5).

We can take comfort in knowing: The Angel of the LORD encampeth round about them that fear Him, and delivereth them (Psalm 34:7).

Word Studies:

22:4 hold = stronghold, safe place; 22:10 victuals = provisions; 22:18 fell upon = attacked and murdered; 22:22 I have occasioned = I am to blame for; 23:9 practiced mischief = plotted evil or harm; 23:16 strengthened his hand = encouraged his faith in God; 23:22 his haunt = foot; 24:3 sheepcotes = where the sheep were kept; to cover his feet = to take a nap; 24:4 privily = unobserved, secretly; 24:7 stayed = persuaded, restrained; 24:19 go well away = get away safely.

Christ Revealed:

By David's refusal to take the kingdom by force or before the appointed time set by God (I Samuel 24:10-13) Christ refused to become King of Israel. When Jesus . . . perceived (knew) that they would come and take Him by force, to make Him a king, He departed . . . into a mountain Himself alone (John 6:15).

Prayer Needs:

Pray for Government Officials: Rep. Tom DeLay (TX) and Rep. David Wu (OR) · Country: Peru (27 million) on the western coast of South America · Major languages: Spanish and Quechua · Open to evangelism and Bible distribution · 89% Roman Catholic; 4% Protestant · Prayer Suggestion: Confess wrongs you have committed to the Lord and to those whom you have hurt; ask for forgiveness (Matthew 5:23-24).

Optional Reading: Acts 9

Memory Verse for the Week: I Samuel 15:22