1 Samuel 26:12 

New International Version (NIV)

So David took the spear and water jug near Saul’s head, and they left. No one saw or knew about it, nor did anyone wake up. They were all sleeping, because the Lord had put them into a deep sleep. 

For Meditation

Ever gotten away with driving recklessly, narrowly escaping danger, and then thought you were a super-skilled driver? Or have you ever pulled off a risky venture and congratulated yourself for your smartness or experience? Not so fast!

You live today or hold that prize because of God’s mercy and grace He showered on you. It is God who did it all. You are just a harvester and beneficiary of His grace. So, give glory to Him, amen!

David successfully retrieved Saul’s spear and water jug in the narrative of David approaching a slumbering King Saul and his troops (1 Sam. 26:7-12). Critically, God cast a profound sleep upon Saul and his soldiers, enabling David and Abishai to escape undetected and unharmed with the items (12). It wasn’t David’s military prowess or ability to evade detection. Neither was it a natural sleep that overtook Saul and Abner out of exhaustion. It was God who did it for David’s good, and for His purpose (Rom 8:28). God didn’t do it for David to avenge himself on Saul in cold blood. Instead, He intended to show David that He keeps him from his enemies. 

The lesson for David was to trust in God’s sovereignty over Saul’s life (10), and He did so on Mt. Gilboa (31:4). David’s role was to respond in a way that honored God:

“The Lord forbid that I should lay a hand on the Lord’s anointed” (26:11).

Just as David refused to kill Saul as Abishai suggested (8), our response to God’s wonders in our lives should be godly and gracious. God leads us and does His wonders through our lives, so that the glory would be His. We must resist the temptation to gloat over our victories, remembering that it is His victory, not ours. Our actions should reflect the humility and grace of our Savior, Jesus Christ.

Whether it’s a risky venture or an advantage gained over an enemy, we must never forget to give glory to God. He makes all things possible. God is the one who puts our enemies to sleep, showing His presence in our lives to protect and deliver us. It is His victory, not ours, so let us always give Him the glory He deserves. 

Let us celebrate our Savior and Lord, Jesus Christ, by living in a way that reflects His humility and grace. Let us respond to our enemies with the same grace that God has shown us. 

Pray with Me

King of Glory, you are worthy of all praise and thanks for your care and providence in my life, which has given me victory a million times. You’re right; it is you who works in me to both will and act according to your good purpose. So, I lay all the honor at your feet, for you deserve it all in Christ. Amen.

Shalom