God's Daily Words: Three Phases of Action | Section 23

In the annals of divine protection, the narrative of Safeguarding God (1 Samuel 19) shines brightly. It unfolds with Saul's relentless pursuit of David, driven by envy and fear, as depicted in 1 Samuel 18. Saul, consumed by a desire to annihilate David, resorts to cunning and double dealing. Yet, amidst Saul's malevolent schemes, divine intervention is unmistakably evident.

Since the misdirection and interest didn't give way, Saul, the king, resolved to take matters into his own hands. He ventured into the field, intent on spilling David's blood (1 Samuel 19:1). Here, the power of divine protection manifests itself, as God shields David from the malevolent machinations of Saul.

Let us pause to reflect and praise Him by realizing that even amidst the most perilous circumstances, there exists a benevolent deity who watches over us. As the scriptures affirm, "He that keepeth Israel neither slumbereth nor slumbereth" (Hymn 121:4).

The Master safeguarded David in four distinct phases within this passage:

1. He put a stop to the evil plan. Jonathan's counsel in 1 Samuel 19:4,5 thwarted the malevolence that threatened David's life. When Saul sought to kill David, Jonathan intervened, speaking wisdom to prevent the impending tragedy.

   Let us applaud the Ruler for Jonathan, an instrument of divine providence sent to forestall harm in our lives.

2. Gotten away from the conspiracy. (1 Samuel 19:8-10)

   Saul, despite vowing before God not to harm David, resorted once more to violence. As David's ascendancy became apparent, Saul's intentions turned murderous once again. Yet, God endowed David with the wisdom to evade Saul's schemes.

   David, resolute, refused to be a victim, thwarting Saul's attempts on his life. Let us acclaim the Master who bestows wisdom upon us to evade the snares set against us.

3. He is kind, even to people who aren't perfect. (1 Samuel 19:11-18)

   Saul's relentless pursuit of David extended even to his own household, as he sent agents to slay David in his own home. Michal, Saul's daughter and David's wife, played a pivotal role in David's escape.

   Despite Michal's deceitful actions, God used her to safeguard David. This serves as a reminder that God can employ flawed individuals to protect His children.

   Reflecting on examples such as Rahab the Whore and Cyrus the Persian ruler, we recognize that God's kindness transcends human imperfection.

4. He survives the people who come against him. (David finally sought safety with Samuel in 1 Samuel 19:18–24. Knowing this, Saul sends his workers in three gatherings to catch David. In any case, they were forecasting heavily influenced by God's Soul.)

   Saul's attempts to capture David were thwarted by divine intervention. Despite Saul's meticulous planning, God redirected the actions of Saul's agents, allowing David to escape unscathed.

   Let us acknowledge and praise God who redirects our adversaries, turning their schemes against them and ensuring our safety.

In summary, Safeguarding God encompasses four essential facets:

1. Stopping evil thoughts
2. Escaping plots
3. Extending kindness through imperfect agents
4. Overcoming adversaries

As we navigate life's trials, may we find solace in the assurance that God's protection is ever-present, guiding us through adversity and shielding us from harm.