Read 1 Samuel 24:18-22 – “…And you have shown this day how you have dealt well with me; for when the Lord delivered me into your hand, you did not kill me. For if a man finds his enemy, will he let him get away safely? Therefore may the Lord reward you with good for what you have done to me this day. And now I know indeed that you shall surely be king, and that the kingdom of Israel shall be established in your hand. Therefore swear now to me by the Lord that you will not cut off my descendants after me, and that you will not destroy my name from my father’s house.” So David swore to Saul. And Saul went home, but David and his men went up to the stronghold. (NKJV)
In its cultural setting, Saul’s request is unreasonable. Since families ruled until conquered, a new king would typically eliminate a former king’s family either by death or banishment. Saul asks David to allow his descendants a future in the land, even though their presence could undermine David’s authority. David agrees and demonstrates that commitment on multiple occasions. Though David’s willingness is unexpected and hardly the norm for his day, David shows great wisdom in how he respects the leader who precedes him. That’s good advice for us as well. You can’t build well if your foundation is made of criticisms of your predecessor. Remember that someday you’ll be the former leader so sow good seeds.
– Dr. Mike Clarensau serves as Senior Director of the Healthy Church Network of the Assemblies of God.
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