1 Samuel 26:19

Now please, may my lord the king hear the words of his servant: If the LORD has stirred you up against me, then may He accept an offering. But if men have done it, may they be cursed in the presence of the LORD! For today they have driven me away from sharing in the inheritance of the LORD, saying, 'Go, serve other gods.'

Study Bible

Now please let my lord the king listen
This phrase reflects David's respectful approach to King Saul, despite Saul's pursuit to kill him. The Hebrew word for "listen" (שָׁמַע, shama) implies not just hearing but understanding and obeying. David appeals to Saul's authority and reason, seeking to engage him in a dialogue that could lead to reconciliation. This reflects a deep respect for God-ordained authority, even when that authority is unjustly exercised.

to the words of his servant
David refers to himself as Saul's "servant," a term that denotes humility and submission. The Hebrew word for "servant" (עֶבֶד, ebed) is often used to describe someone in a position of service or subordination. David's use of this term underscores his loyalty and his desire to serve Saul, despite the king's hostility. It is a reminder of the Christian call to humility and service, even in the face of adversity.

If the LORD has stirred you up against me
Here, David acknowledges the sovereignty of God in all circumstances. The Hebrew word for "stirred" (סוּת, sut) suggests incitement or provocation. David is open to the possibility that God might be using Saul's actions for a divine purpose. This reflects a deep trust in God's providence and a willingness to seek His will, even in difficult situations.

then let Him accept an offering
David proposes a solution if God is indeed behind Saul's actions: an offering. The concept of an offering (מִנְחָה, minchah) in the Hebrew tradition is a means of atonement and reconciliation with God. David's suggestion indicates his desire for peace and his understanding of the sacrificial system as a way to restore broken relationships with God.

But if men have done so
David contrasts divine influence with human manipulation. The phrase suggests that if Saul's actions are the result of human influence, those responsible are acting against God's will. This highlights the biblical theme of human free will and the potential for sin to disrupt God's plans.

may they be cursed before the LORD
David calls for divine justice against those who have wrongfully incited Saul. The concept of a curse (אָרַר, arar) in Hebrew culture is a solemn invocation of divine judgment. This reflects the biblical principle that God is a righteous judge who will hold individuals accountable for their actions.

For they have driven me away this day
David laments his forced separation from his homeland and community. The phrase "driven away" (גָּרַשׁ, garash) conveys a sense of expulsion and alienation. This resonates with the biblical theme of exile and the longing for restoration and return to God's presence.

so that I have no share in the inheritance of the LORD
David expresses his loss of access to the land and blessings promised to God's people. The "inheritance of the LORD" refers to the covenantal blessings associated with the Promised Land. This highlights the importance of community and belonging in the biblical narrative and the spiritual significance of the land for Israel.

saying, ‘Go, serve other gods.’
David's statement underscores the spiritual danger of being cut off from the worship of the true God. The phrase implies a forced abandonment of faith, which is a grave concern in the biblical worldview. It serves as a warning against idolatry and the importance of remaining faithful to God, even in challenging circumstances.

Persons / Places / Events

1. David
The future king of Israel, currently on the run from King Saul. He is the speaker in this verse, addressing Saul.

2. Saul
The first king of Israel, who is pursuing David out of jealousy and fear of losing his throne.

3. The LORD (Yahweh)
The God of Israel, whom David acknowledges as the ultimate authority and judge.

4. Ziph Desert
The location where this event takes place, a wilderness area where David is hiding.

5. Men (Accusers)
Those who have falsely accused David or stirred Saul against him, leading to his unjust persecution.

Teaching Points

Trust in God's Sovereignty
David acknowledges that if the LORD is behind Saul's pursuit, then it is part of God's plan. We should trust God's sovereignty in our own trials.

Seek Reconciliation
David offers a solution of making an offering if God is the cause, showing the importance of seeking reconciliation with God and others.

Discernment of Motives
David distinguishes between divine and human motives behind actions. We should seek discernment to understand the true causes of conflicts in our lives.

Value of Spiritual Inheritance
David laments being driven from his spiritual inheritance. We should cherish and protect our spiritual heritage and relationship with God.

Curse of False Accusation
David calls for a curse on those who falsely accuse. We must be cautious not to bear false witness or unjustly accuse others.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does David's response to Saul's pursuit demonstrate his faith in God's justice and timing?

2. In what ways can we apply David's approach to conflict resolution in our own lives, especially when dealing with false accusations?

3. How does the concept of spiritual inheritance in the Old Testament relate to our understanding of spiritual blessings in Christ?

4. What steps can we take to ensure we are not driven away from our "inheritance of the LORD" in our daily lives?

5. How can we discern whether a challenge we face is a test from God or a result of human actions, and how should this affect our response?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Psalm 37
This Psalm, attributed to David, speaks of trusting in the LORD and not fretting over evildoers, reflecting David's attitude in 1 Samuel 26.

Deuteronomy 32:8-9
Discusses the inheritance of the LORD, which David refers to when lamenting being driven away from his share in it.

Matthew 5:23-24
Jesus teaches about reconciliation and offering gifts, which parallels David's suggestion of making an offering if the LORD is the one stirring Saul.

Romans 12:19
Paul advises believers to leave vengeance to God, echoing David's refusal to harm Saul despite having the opportunity.