1 Samuel 26:18

And he continued, "Why is my lord pursuing his servant? What have I done? What evil is in my hand?

Study Bible

And he said
This phrase introduces the speaker, David, who is addressing King Saul. The Hebrew root for "said" is אָמַר (amar), which is often used to denote not just speaking, but a declaration or proclamation. In this context, David is making a heartfelt appeal, emphasizing the sincerity and gravity of his words. Historically, this moment is significant as it reflects David's consistent respect for Saul's anointed position, despite Saul's pursuit of him.

Why is my lord
The term "my lord" is a respectful address to King Saul, highlighting David's continued reverence for Saul's authority as the anointed king of Israel. The Hebrew word for "lord" is אֲדֹנִי (adoni), which signifies a master or superior. This reflects David's humility and recognition of God's established order, even when faced with unjust persecution.

pursuing his servant?
The word "pursuing" comes from the Hebrew רָדַף (radaf), meaning to chase or hunt. This term conveys the intensity and relentlessness of Saul's actions against David. By referring to himself as "his servant," David underscores his loyalty and innocence, reminding Saul of his previous service and dedication. This phrase also evokes the broader biblical theme of the righteous being pursued by the wicked, a motif seen throughout the Psalms.

What have I done?
This rhetorical question is a plea for justice and self-examination. The Hebrew word עָשָׂה (asah) for "done" implies action or deed. David is challenging Saul to consider any wrongdoing on his part, which he knows does not exist. This reflects the biblical principle of examining one's actions and the importance of justice and righteousness in leadership.

What evil is in my hand?
The term "evil" is translated from the Hebrew רָעָה (ra'ah), which denotes wickedness or harm. By asking if there is any evil "in my hand," David is using a metaphor for actions or intentions. The "hand" often symbolizes power or capability in biblical literature. David is asserting his innocence and the absence of any harmful intent towards Saul. This question is a powerful reminder of the biblical call to purity of heart and action, and it challenges the listener to consider the integrity of their own motives.

Persons / Places / Events

1. David
The future king of Israel, anointed by Samuel, who is currently being pursued by King Saul. David is known for his faithfulness to God and his refusal to harm Saul, despite being unjustly hunted.

2. Saul
The first king of Israel, who has become increasingly paranoid and jealous of David, fearing the loss of his throne. Saul's pursuit of David is driven by insecurity and disobedience to God.

3. The Wilderness of Ziph
A desert area where David and his men are hiding. It is a place of refuge for David but also a place of testing and reliance on God.

4. Abishai
David's nephew and one of his loyal warriors, who accompanies David into Saul's camp and offers to kill Saul, but David restrains him.

5. The Camp of Saul
The location where Saul and his men are encamped, and where David demonstrates his integrity by sparing Saul's life.

Teaching Points

Integrity in Adversity
David's question to Saul highlights his innocence and integrity. Believers are called to maintain their integrity even when falsely accused or pursued by adversaries.

Trust in God's Justice
David's restraint in not harming Saul demonstrates his trust in God's justice. Christians are encouraged to rely on God to vindicate them rather than taking matters into their own hands.

Responding to Persecution
David's respectful address to Saul, despite Saul's hostility, teaches believers to respond to persecution with grace and respect.

The Power of a Clear Conscience
David's ability to confront Saul with confidence stems from his clear conscience. Maintaining a clear conscience before God and others empowers believers to stand firm in truth.

The Role of Godly Counsel
David's interaction with Abishai shows the importance of surrounding oneself with godly counsel that encourages righteousness and restraint.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does David's question to Saul in 1 Samuel 26:18 reflect his understanding of his own innocence and integrity? How can we apply this understanding in our own lives when facing false accusations?

2. In what ways does David's response to Saul's pursuit demonstrate trust in God's justice? How can we cultivate a similar trust in our own situations?

3. How does David's interaction with Saul in this chapter illustrate the principle of loving one's enemies as taught by Jesus in the New Testament?

4. What role does a clear conscience play in David's ability to confront Saul? How can maintaining a clear conscience impact our relationships and interactions with others?

5. How does the presence of Abishai and his counsel influence David's actions? What can we learn about the importance of surrounding ourselves with godly counsel and accountability?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Psalm 7
David's plea for justice and vindication, reflecting his innocence and trust in God's righteousness, similar to his question in 1 Samuel 26:18.

Matthew 5:44
Jesus' teaching on loving enemies, which parallels David's refusal to harm Saul despite being pursued unjustly.

Romans 12:19
Paul's instruction to leave vengeance to God, echoing David's decision not to take revenge on Saul.