David refused to use Saul’s armor and weapon, not because they didn’t fit, but because he had not tested them in combat. He had already seen violent confrontation, and was described as a man of war in the previous chapter. But he had to use the tools he was familiar with. Often we think that if we could afford the latest technology, we could make a difference. The Lord is more interested in what we are doing with what he has already provided us. God was in control, and used a rock at the hands of a marksman skilled with rocks.
Things soon changed for David with regard to his relationship with king Saul. At first, Saul was pleased that David had defeated Goliath and humiliated the Philistines. But before long, David could do nothing right in Saul’s eyes. His friendship with Jonathan, his reputation as a warrior, his music, his marriage to Michal, his success against the Philistines — everything that David did just made Saul angrier, and more fearful. Tension was increasing. However, things were not really out of control. God was still in control.
David was learning that experiencing tension and conflict did not mean that he was doing something wrong. Difficulties do not mean that he was outside of God’s will. Tension and conflict were the byproduct of obeying God.
When tension mounts, trust God.
Jefferson Vann
