The Perfect Opportunity

The Story

King Saul was hunting David. Jealous of David’s success, Saul had tried to kill him more than once, and now he was chasing him through the wilderness of En-gedi with three thousand of his best soldiers.

David and his men were hiding deep inside a cave. Then Saul walked into that very cave alone to relieve himself, with no idea who was hiding in the dark.

David’s men could hardly believe it. “This is the day the Lord told you about! He’s delivered your enemy into your hand!” David crept up close, close enough to kill the man who had made his life a nightmare. Instead, he quietly cut off a corner of Saul’s robe.

Even that bothered his conscience. He told his men he would not lift his hand against the king God had anointed.

When Saul left the cave, David stepped out behind him and called, “My lord the king!” He bowed down, held up the piece of robe, and showed Saul how close he had come. “I could have killed you, but I didn’t.” Saul wept. “You are more righteous than I,” he said.

Reflection