1 Samuel 24

24:2 3,000 elite troops: David’s force was outnumbered five to one (23:13).

24:4 David’s men believed, as Saul did, that if the circumstances seem right, the Lord is telling you through those circumstances what to do (cp. 23:7). • Perhaps David was able to cut off a piece of the hem of Saul’s robe without being apprehended because Saul had taken off the robe and laid it aside, or perhaps he fell asleep in the cave.

24:5 David’s conscience began bothering him because he had dishonored God’s anointed king.

24:6 The Lord’s anointed one was not to be violated (26:9, 11, 16, 23; 2 Sam 1:14, 16; 19:21). David would not harm Saul even though God had anointed him to be the next king (1 Sam 16:13).

24:11 my father: Saul was, in fact, David’s father-in-law (18:27). David was demonstrating his respect for the king and recalling a day when their relationship had been much friendlier.

24:12 May the Lord judge: There was no human authority to adjudicate between Saul and David (cp. Gen 16:5; 31:53; Exod 5:21; Judg 11:27). • Perhaps the Lord will punish you: David rested in God’s will rather than trying to force God’s hand.

24:13 The proverb vindicates David and indicts Saul. David refrained from evil deeds, such as killing Saul. Saul, however, repeatedly tried to kill David.

24:20 I realize that you are surely going to be king: This was Saul’s first open admission of the truth (cp. 23:17).

24:21-22 Now swear to me . . . you will not kill my family: Having descendants was a way that Saul’s name would endure among the living. David had already sworn such an oath with Jonathan (20:14-17).