Jonathan Warns David
For a moment, as Michal’s husband, David stood at the pinnacle of his early fortunes. Saul had set his harsh rule firmly upon the Hebrews, and to be his son-in-law was to be a very great personage in the land. The king’s trusted comrade Abner seems to have remained his chief general. Jonathan, Saul’s eldest; best beloved son was ever at his father’s side. But after these, David was the chief man of the kingdom. He was the active champion, always taking the field against the Philistines; and, a new war arising with the old enemy, David led the Israelites with such success that again the people hailed him as their savior. Again the offensive echo of their songs of praise rang through Saul’s burning brain.
The king’s wavering distrust of his popular general, settled into a deadly malignity. He spoke plainly to his more trusted servants, asking them to slay David. He even broached the matter to his son Jonathan. This loyal friend went at once to David with warning of his danger, and the two planned for David’s flight. But meanwhile Jonathan faced his father openly, rebuking him with sternness, and reminding him of David’s faithfulness and of his vast services to Israel. Once more Saul’s heart was touched with remorse, and he swore a great oath, “As the Lord liveth, he shall not be slain.”
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