Day 108, Chronological Bible Study Timeline. Map. Go to today’s Bible reading (use your browser arrow to return): 1Samuel 22:6–23:29; Psalm 52; Psalm 54; Psalm 109
Pursued, Victimized, and Stalked—what can we do?
Sometimes, when a person chases us, it is fun. We run, laugh, play, and tease each other. At other times, it is not fun; it is stalking. Jealousy, envy, and hatred may cause a person to pursue or stalk someone to intimidate or harm him (or her). This harassment causes fear, flight, and mental anguish. What do we do about it?
In today’s Bible reading, King Saul continues to pursue David. He was once a trusted bodyguard of the king and loved by everyone. He was also a victorious warrior. Because of his success, however, jealousy fuels Saul’s hatred of him. David has done nothing wrong, but Saul wants to kill him to remove his perceived rival.
David flees from King Saul
The first place David runs to is Nob, where the tabernacle of the LORD is residing. Perhaps, he goes to inquire of the LORD. He may want to know why Saul is stalking him and if he is safe, but he lies about his purpose for being there. Ahimelech, the priest at Nob, believes David’s story and gives him shelter, food, and even Goliath’s sword to defend himself. Ahimelech is unaware of the actual situation and helps David and his men.
Doeg Betrays David
Doeg the Edomite, Saul’s head shepherd, witnesses the interaction between David and the priest. Doeg’s name means “fearful,” and he is a coward. Instead of confronting David himself, he leaves and tells Saul of the incident (for a price). Doeg then follows Saul to Nob. The king orders his men to kill Ahimelech and all the priests, but they fear the LORD and will not do it. Saul will not even do it. Instead, Doeg is the appointed executioner. Hiding behind the authority of Saul and sure of his rewards, Doeg kills not only the priests but their whole town, including their families and livestock. They are unavoidable victims of Saul’s insane jealousy.
One priest, Abiathar, escapes and flees to David. David gives him refuge because he feels responsible for victimizing the town and priests of Nob. Sometimes, we become unwary casualties. We can plead our case and hope justice will prevail, but ultimately we must commit our lives to God for his will to be done.
David writes of his experience with Doeg in a song. He says,
Here now is the man who did not make God his stronghold but trusted in his great wealth and grew strong by destroying others! But I am like an olive tree flourishing in the house of God; I trust in God's unfailing love for ever and ever, (Psalm 52:7-8, NIV).God’s protects David
We do not have to destroy others to get ahead, and we do not have to harass the innocent. Instead, we can choose to trust in God’s unfailing love and experience his favor.
David is a warrior. He hears a report that the city of Keilah needs help, and God sends him to deliver her. But the city is hemmed in with bars and gates. Saul hears that David is there and sees his opportunity to get him. However, when David consults the LORD, he tells him of Saul’s plan, and David leaves the city.
Nevertheless, Saul pursues David. But, when he comes too close, the LORD stirs up Israel’s enemies. Saul abandons the pursuit to defend Israel against Philistine attacks—the jealous king has to break off his search when David is almost in his grasp. Although King Saul is harassing his son-in-law, God shows David that he still cares for him and protects him. God also sends Jonathan, David’s best friend, to encourage him.
What can we do if someone is stalking us or we become victims?
Let the police know.
For he is God’s servant to do you good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for he does not bear the sword for nothing. He is God’s servant, an agent of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer. (Romans 13:4, NIV).
Sometimes, however, stalking may continue. Just as David experienced trials that did not go away, so the same can happen to us. But, if we have a personal relationship with the LORD, he will give us wisdom. We can trust him to be our defense and shield (more...).
Endnote: Before King David conquers the Hittites and brings it into Jerusalem, God’s worship tent moves around Israel.
Focus Verse
Psalm 52:8 (NIV) “But I am like an olive tree flourishing in the house of God; I trust in God's unfailing love for ever and ever.”
Discussion
What can we do if someone is stalking us and wants to harm us?
What should we do if someone harasses us?
How is the LORD our defense and shield against our enemies?
Write a private prayer response to today’s Bible study:
Please send your comments to mtbiblestudies@gmail.com
Looking Ahead: David continues to be pursued by King Saul, even though he has done nothing to deserve it. Perhaps some of us have felt the same way. What do we do? Will we ever be Vindicated? Join us for our Next Lesson.
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