1 SAMUEL 24
Circumstances. People interpret events differently, depending on what they have in their hearts. Saul thought circumstances were safe, so he laid aside his spear and went into the cave. David’s men saw a great opportunity for David to avenge himself, but David saw an opportunity to show mercy (Matt. 5:10–12;
Conscience. David’s conscience was so tender that he was troubled after he cut off a corner of Saul’s robe. He was humiliating the king, and David knew what it meant to respect authority. A sensitive conscience is a great treasure and a valuable guide. Don’t lose it!
Cowardice. Saul’s tears were superficial and his conviction temporary; otherwise, he would have welcomed David and transferred the monarchy to him. He knew that David would be king, but he opposed it as long as he could. His greatest concern was that David spare his descendants, which David promised to do. However, it was Saul’s sins, not David’s revenge, that destroyed his family.