1 Samuel 26:23

May the LORD repay every man for his righteousness and faithfulness. For the LORD delivered you into my hand today, but I would not stretch out my hand against the LORD's anointed.

Study Bible

The LORD
This phrase refers to Yahweh, the covenantal name of God in the Hebrew Bible. It emphasizes God's sovereignty and His role as the ultimate judge and rewarder. In the context of 1 Samuel, Yahweh is the God who has chosen and anointed kings over Israel, and His authority is supreme over all human actions and decisions.

rewards
The Hebrew root for "rewards" is "shalam," which means to make whole or to repay. This suggests that God is just and will ensure that righteousness and faithfulness are acknowledged and compensated. The concept of divine recompense is central to the biblical understanding of justice, where God is seen as the ultimate arbiter who balances the scales.

every man
This phrase underscores the universality of God's justice. It implies that God's rewards are not limited to a select few but are available to all who demonstrate righteousness and faithfulness. This inclusivity reflects the biblical principle that God's moral standards apply to all humanity.

for his righteousness
"Righteousness" in Hebrew is "tsedaqah," which refers to ethical conduct and living in accordance with God's laws. In the biblical context, righteousness is not merely about legalistic adherence but involves a relational aspect of being in right standing with God and others. David's actions in sparing Saul demonstrate this righteousness.

and faithfulness
The Hebrew word for "faithfulness" is "emunah," which conveys steadfastness and reliability. It is a quality that reflects God's own nature and is expected of His followers. David's faithfulness is evident in his respect for Saul as the LORD's anointed, despite Saul's pursuit to kill him.

For the LORD delivered you into my hand today
This phrase acknowledges God's providence and control over the events. David recognizes that it was not by his own strength or cunning that he had the opportunity to harm Saul, but by God's orchestration. This highlights the biblical theme of divine sovereignty in human affairs.

but I refused to stretch out my hand
David's refusal to harm Saul is a testament to his moral integrity and respect for God's anointed. The phrase "stretch out my hand" is a Hebrew idiom for taking action, particularly in violence. David's restraint is a powerful example of self-control and obedience to God's will.

against the LORD’s anointed
The term "anointed" refers to someone chosen and consecrated by God for a specific purpose, in this case, Saul as king. The Hebrew word "mashiach" (Messiah) is used here, indicating the sacredness of Saul's position despite his failings. David's respect for Saul's anointing reflects his reverence for God's choices and timing.

Persons / Places / Events

1. David
The future king of Israel, anointed by God, who demonstrates restraint and respect for God's anointed king, Saul, despite being pursued by him.

2. Saul
The current king of Israel, who is pursuing David to kill him, yet is spared by David in this encounter.

3. The Wilderness of Ziph
The location where this event takes place, highlighting the ongoing tension and pursuit between Saul and David.

4. Abishai
David's companion who accompanies him into Saul's camp and suggests killing Saul, but is restrained by David.

5. The LORD
The central figure in this account, whose justice and sovereignty are acknowledged by David as he refrains from harming Saul.

Teaching Points

Respect for God's Anointed
David's refusal to harm Saul, despite having the opportunity, teaches us to respect those whom God has placed in authority, even when they are flawed.

Trust in Divine Justice
David's actions demonstrate a deep trust in God's justice and timing, encouraging believers to rely on God to right wrongs rather than taking matters into their own hands.

Righteousness and Faithfulness
The verse highlights the importance of living a life of righteousness and faithfulness, trusting that God sees and rewards such behavior.

Restraint and Mercy
David's restraint in not killing Saul is a powerful example of mercy, reminding us to show mercy to others, even when it is within our power to harm them.

God's Sovereignty
Recognizing God's control over situations, as David did, can bring peace and patience in times of trial and conflict.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does David's respect for Saul as the LORD's anointed challenge us in our interactions with authority figures today?

2. In what ways can we demonstrate trust in God's justice in our personal conflicts, as David did with Saul?

3. How does the concept of divine reward for righteousness and faithfulness encourage you in your daily walk with God?

4. What are some practical ways we can show mercy to those who have wronged us, following David's example?

5. How can understanding God's sovereignty over our circumstances help us respond to challenges with patience and faith?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Psalm 18:20-24
David speaks of the LORD rewarding him according to his righteousness, echoing the theme of divine recompense for faithfulness.

Romans 12:19
Paul advises believers to leave vengeance to God, aligning with David's decision not to harm Saul.

Matthew 5:44
Jesus teaches to love your enemies, which David exemplifies by sparing Saul's life.