Author: gregsloop

Abner, the commander of Ishbosheth, and Joab, the commander of David, met at the pool of Gibeon.  They decided to have a competition between their young men.  Twelve young men came from each side, and they thrust their opponents through with swords.  They called the place the Field of Sharp Swords.  The two armies fought, … Continue reading Civil War: Israel & Judah (2 Samuel 2:12 – 3:5)

David sought God as to whether he should go up to Judah.  The Lord told him to go to Hebron.  He, his two wives, and all his men went with him.  The men of Judah came and anointed David king over the house of Judah.  He commended the inhabitants of Jabesh Gilead for taking care … Continue reading David and Ishbosheth: Competing Kings (2 Samuel 2:1 – 11)

David wrote a song to lament Saul and Jonathan and taught all the children of Judah. 2 Samuel 1:19–27 (NKJV) 19 “The beauty of Israel is slain on your high places! How the mighty have fallen! 20 Tell it not in Gath, Proclaim it not in the streets of Ashkelon— Lest the daughters of the … Continue reading The Song of the Bow (2 Samuel 1:17 – 27)

As the Philistines fought against Israel, they began to prevail, and Israel was slain on Mount Gilboa.  They began to concentrate their efforts on capturing Saul, and killed three of his sons.  They hit Saul with arrows, and he ordered his armorbearer to thrust him through with his sword, so the Philistines would not abuse … Continue reading Saul’s Tragic End (1 Samuel 31, I Chronicles 10:1 – 14, 2 Samuel 1:1-16)

As the Philistines passed in review prior to attacking Israel, David and his men were in array with Achish.  The Lords of the Philistines asked why the Hebrews were among their ranks.  Achish reminded them of David's loyalty and his ability.  However, the other leaders were angry with Achish, and refused to allow David to … Continue reading David Rejected by the Philistines; Conflict with Amalekites (1 Samuel29-30)

David felt that there was no hope to avoid the attacks and eventual death at the hands of Saul.  He decided to take his 600 men and go to the Philistines at Gath.  Achish gave David the city of Ziklag.  David dwelt among the Philistines for one year and four months.  During his time there, … Continue reading David Changes Sides (Sort of) and Saul Consults the Other Side (Sort of) (1 Samuel 27-28)

Today's reading includes two very long passages.  Let me give you the short version of the story of David, Nabal, and Abigail.  Nabal and Abigail were married and Nabal was a harsh man, while Abigail was a good and beautiful woman.  David's men were looking for food for which to eat on a feast day.  … Continue reading David and Nabal; David and Abigail; David and Saul (1 Samuel 25:2 – 26:25)