Matthew Henry's Concise Commentary on the Whole Bible
1 Samuel Ch.19 / 31 Ch.s
1SA:19
* Jonathan reconciles his father to David, Saul again tries to
slay him. (1-10) David flees to Samuel. (11-24)
#1-10 How forcible are right words! Saul was, for a time,
convinced of the unreasonableness of his enmity to David; but he
continued his malice against David. So incurable is the hatred
of the seed of the serpent against that of the woman; so
deceitful and desperately wicked is the heart of man without the
grace of God, #Jer 17:9|.
#11-24 Michal's stratagem to gain time till David got to a
distance was allowable, but her falsehood had not even the plea
of necessity to excuse it, and manifests that she was not
influenced by the same spirit of piety which had dictated
Jonathan's language to Saul. In flying to Samuel, David made God
his refuge. Samuel, as a prophet, was best able to advise him
what to do in this day of distress. He met with little rest or
satisfaction in Saul's court, therefore went to seek it in
Samuel's church. What little pleasure is to be had in this
world, those have who live a life of communion with God; to that
David returned in the time of trouble. So impatient was Saul
after David's blood, so restless against him, that although
baffled by one providence after another, he could not see that
David was under the special protection of God. And when God will
take this way to protect David, even Saul prophesies. Many have
great gifts, yet no grace; they may prophesy in Christ's name,
yet are disowned by him. Let us daily seek for renewing grace,
which shall be in us as a well of water springing up into
everlasting life. Let us cleave to truth and holiness with full
purpose of heart. In every danger and trouble, let us seek
protection, comfort, and direction in God's ordinances.