But the Lord said to Samuel, “Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.” – 1 Samuel 16:7
Bible Verses About Saul And David
The Anointing of David
As we explore the story of Saul and David, we see a powerful lesson about God’s choice and anointing. When God chose David to be king, it wasn’t based on outward appearances or societal expectations. Rather, God looked into David’s heart and saw his potential as a leader who would follow His will. In our lives, we too must remember that the Lord calls and equips us based on the condition of our hearts, not our human qualifications. This theme of God’s selection reminds us to trust in His wisdom, even when our own judgments may fall short. As we engage with scripture, let us open our hearts to how God can use us, just like he did with David.
1 Samuel 16:12
So he sent for him and had him brought in. He was glowing with health and had a fine appearance and handsome features. Then the Lord said, “Rise and anoint him; this is the one.” – 1 Samuel 16:12
1 Samuel 16:13
So Samuel took the horn of oil and anointed him in the presence of his brothers, and from that day on the Spirit of the Lord came powerfully upon David. Samuel then went to Ramah. – 1 Samuel 16:13
1 Samuel 16:14
Now the Spirit of the Lord had departed from Saul, and an evil spirit from the Lord tormented him. – 1 Samuel 16:14
1 Samuel 16:15
Saul’s attendants said to him, “See, an evil spirit from God is tormenting you.” – 1 Samuel 16:15
1 Samuel 16:17
So Saul said to his attendants, “Find someone who plays well and bring him to me.” – 1 Samuel 16:17
The Friendship of David and Jonathan
In the friendship between David and Jonathan, we witness a bond that transcends rivalry and political tension. Jonathan, the son of Saul, recognized David’s anointing and chose loyalty over jealousy. Their friendship is a beautiful picture of selflessness, love, and sacrifice. As we reflect on their relationship, it encourages us to seek out genuine friendships, build strong bonds, and support one another in our paths of faith. We are reminded that true comradeship strengthens us in our walk with God and helps us stay the course in difficult times.
1 Samuel 18:1
After David had finished talking with Saul, Jonathan became one in spirit with David, and he loved him as himself. – 1 Samuel 18:1
1 Samuel 18:3
And Jonathan made a covenant with David because he loved him as himself. – 1 Samuel 18:3
1 Samuel 20:17
And Jonathan had David reaffirm his oath out of love for him, because he loved him as he loved himself. – 1 Samuel 20:17
1 Samuel 20:41
After the boy had gone, David got up from the south side of the stone and bowed down before Jonathan three times, with his face to the ground. Then they kissed each other and wept together—but David wept the most. – 1 Samuel 20:41
2 Samuel 1:26
I grieve for you, Jonathan my brother; you were very dear to me. Your love for me was wonderful, more wonderful than that of women. – 2 Samuel 1:26
The Conflict with Saul
The tension between Saul and David teaches us valuable lessons about conflict and respect for God’s authority. Even when Saul’s actions were irrational and driven by jealousy, David chose not to retaliate. Instead, he showed respect for Saul as the anointed king. This aspect of their relationship challenges us to exercise patience and grace during challenging times, especially when we find ourselves in difficult situations with others. By following David’s example, we are encouraged to maintain our integrity and trust in God’s timing and justice as we navigate through life’s conflicts.
1 Samuel 24:6
He said to his men, “The Lord forbid that I should do such a thing to my master, the Lord’s anointed, or lay my hand on him; for he is the anointed of the Lord.” – 1 Samuel 24:6
1 Samuel 24:10
This day you have seen with your own eyes how the Lord delivered you into my hands in the cave. Some urged me to kill you, but I spared you; I said, ‘I will not lay my hand on my lord, because he is the Lord’s anointed.’ – 1 Samuel 24:10
1 Samuel 26:9
But David said to Abishai, “Don’t destroy him! Who can lay a hand on the Lord’s anointed and be guiltless?” – 1 Samuel 26:9
1 Samuel 26:11
As surely as the Lord lives,” he said, “the Lord himself will strike him, or his time will come and he will die, or he will go into battle and perish. But the Lord forbid that I lay a hand on the Lord’s anointed. – 1 Samuel 26:11
1 Samuel 26:23
The Lord rewards everyone for their righteousness and faithfulness. The Lord delivered you into my hands today, but I would not lay a hand on the Lord’s anointed. – 1 Samuel 26:23
The Rise of David
David’s journey from shepherd boy to king illustrates the importance of perseverance and faith in God’s promises. He faced numerous challenges, yet remained steadfast in his trust in God. As we look at David’s life, we can find inspiration to pursue our own gifts and callings, trusting that God will guide us as He did with David. Growing through trials helps us mature in faith, and like David, we can learn to rejoice in the Lord, even amid adversity. In facing our challenges, let’s not forget to lean on God’s strength and wisdom.
1 Samuel 16:18
One of the servants answered, “I have seen a son of Jesse of Bethlehem who knows how to play the lyre. He is a brave man and a warrior. He speaks well and is a fine-looking man. And the Lord is with him.” – 1 Samuel 16:18
2 Samuel 2:4
Then the men of Judah came to Hebron, and there they anointed David king over the tribe of Judah. – 2 Samuel 2:4
2 Samuel 5:3
When all the elders of Israel had come to King David at Hebron, the king made a compact with them at Hebron before the Lord, and they anointed David king over Israel. – 2 Samuel 5:3
2 Samuel 5:12
And David knew that the Lord had established him as king over Israel and had exalted his kingdom for the sake of his people Israel. – 2 Samuel 5:12
2 Samuel 7:12
When your days are over and you rest with your ancestors, I will raise up your offspring to succeed you, your own flesh and blood, and I will establish his kingdom. – 2 Samuel 7:12
The Legacy of David
David’s legacy reminds us of the importance of faith, repentance, and worship. Despite his flaws, he sought a relationship with God and encouraged his people to do the same. David’s psalms show his heart for the Lord, as he expressed gratitude, sorrow, and hope. His story teaches us that no matter our failures, God is gracious and desires a sincere heart. This encourages us to pursue God wholeheartedly, living in a way that reflects our love for Him, so that our own legacies may inspire those around us to seek the same.
Acts 13:22
After removing Saul, he made David their king. God testified concerning him: ‘I have found David son of Jesse, a man after my own heart; he will do everything I want him to do.’ – Acts 13:22
Psalms 51:10
Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. – Psalms 51:10
1 Chronicles 29:28
He died at a good old age, having enjoyed long life, wealth and honor. His son Solomon succeeded him as king. – 1 Chronicles 29:28
Psalms medit 133:1
How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity! – Psalms 133:1
Psalms 23:6
Surely your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever. – Psalms 23:6
The Mercy of God
Amidst the struggles between Saul and David, we see the unending mercy of God. Despite Saul’s repeated disobedience, God still spoke to him, showing that He desires to offer grace rather than punishment. David, too, experienced God’s mercy when he repented of his sins. Our lives are filled with moments when we miss the mark, yet God remains faithful and merciful. This beautiful aspect of God encourages us to approach Him with humility and repentance, knowing that when we seek forgiveness, He is always ready to embrace us.
Psalms 86:5
You, Lord, are forgiving and good, abounding in love to all who call to you. – Psalms 86:5
Psalms 103:8
The Lord is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love. – Psalms 103:8
Micah 7:18
Who is a God like you, who pardons sin and forgives the transgression of the remnant of his inheritance? You do not stay angry forever but delight to show mercy. – Micah 7:18
Psalms 51:17
My sacrifice, O God, is a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart you, God, will not despise. – Psalms 51:17
Romans 5:8
But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. – Romans 5:8
Final Thoughts
As we have journeyed through the lives of Saul and David, we uncover lessons on anointing, friendship, conflict, perseverance, legacy, and mercy. We see how God’s choices transcend human expectations, encouraging us to look beyond appearances. Their relationship teaches us about the value of genuine friendship and keeping our integrity in the face of conflict. David’s rise and ultimate reliance on God serves as a powerful reminder for us to trust in His plan. Finally, God’s mercy shines brightly, inviting us to seek His grace in our lives. Through Saul and David’s stories, we are encouraged to live with purpose, love, and honesty.
We can take inspiration from these lessons and apply them as we navigate our own lives. Navigating through relationships, conflicts, and our own journeys of faith, we remember the importance of following God’s heart. To explore more about the lives and lessons of Saul and David, check out their stories at 1 Samuel 18-25 and 1 Samuel 22:20.