“Jealousy is cruel as the grave.” Song of Solomon 8:6 (King James)

King Saul was a tall man, good looking, and he possessed much wisdom. From the human standpoint he was quite ideal. But King Saul tried to rule the people in the same way other kings ruled. He completely ignored the fact that his kingdom was different from the other kingdoms. He also overlooked the fact that God was the true king of Israel and he as king only represented God and should be guided by him in every way.

David, on the other hand, was anxious to do God’s will and was repentant whenever he made a mistake. He was called a “man after God’s own heart.” 1 Samuel 13:14; Acts 13:22

When Saul became unusually nervous and depressed, he was glad for David’s music to cheer him. When Saul was desperately frightened of Goliath and the Philistines, he was grateful for David’s bravery which saved the battle. But when the people praised David more than they did Saul, the king became exceedingly angry and jealous and tried to kill the young man.

Saul tried to get help from his son Jonathan in his wicked plan to kill David, but Jonathan loved David and helped him escape from his father’s wrath. Even though the anointing of David was kept a secret, Saul realized that God’s favor was with this young man which only served to increase his jealous feelings.

It was a hard trial for David to wait for God’s due time to become king of Israel, since his life was always in danger from the angry Saul. However, he learned many valuable lessons in patience!

David was humble but he was also courageous. In the name of the LORD he fearlessly killed Goliath. David was courageous but he was also merciful. When Saul tried to kill David, he ran away and hid to save his life. But twice when David could have killed Saul, he would not do so, even though others thought he should. He said, “I will not lift my hand against my master; because he is the LORD’s anointed.” 1 Samuel 24:10

When angry and jealous, King Saul tried to kill David.