“Now David became aware that Saul had come out to seek his life while David was in the wilderness of Ziph at Horesh.” (v.15)
First, after David's rescue of Keilah from the Philistines, David inquired of the Lord, who told him that Saul was coming and that the citizens of Keilah would be willing to hand him over to Saul. David then exercised prudence and promptly left. Next, while staying in the Desert of Ziph, Saul searched for David repeatedly, “but God did not give David into his hands” (v.14). Moreover, God sent Jonathan to David who “helped him find strength in God” (v.16). Finally, while in the Desert of Maon, Saul was in pursuit, closing in on David and his men. Just then, a message came that the Philistines were raiding the land, and Saul cut off the chase (v.28).
Saul never gave up his intent to kill David, but God never ceased protecting him either. Likewise, it is also given that we as Christians will face tough times in this world. However, we can rest in the fact that He will never leave us nor forsake us. Then we, like Jonathan, can be an encouragement to our brothers/sisters, strengthening those who are going through difficult days of spiritual attack or persecution for their beliefs.
The Truth
“Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 5:10)
