“And Saul said, I will give him her, that she may be a snare to him, and that the hand of the Philistines may be against him. Wherefore Saul said to David, Thou shalt this day be my son in law in the one of the twain.”
This verse is a part of the story of David’s rise to prominence and his relationship with King Saul:It takes place after David’s victory over Goliath, which gained him great favour among the people of Israel and brought him to the attention of King Saul.
Saul’s Intentions:Saul, the current king of Israel, offers his daughter Michal to David in marriage. However, Saul’s motivation for this arrangement is revealed in the verse. He says, “I will give him her, that she may be a snare to him.” Saul’s intention was to use Michal as a means to bring harm to David. Saul saw David as a threat to his own position as king and feared that David’s popularity would overshadow his own. By offering Michal as a wife, Saul hoped that David would be entangled in conflicts with the Philistines, their common enemy, and that they would ultimately kill him.
David’s Response:Despite Saul’s ulterior motives, David agrees to become Saul’s son‑in‑law. This indicates David’s humility, respect for authority, and his desire to serve the Lord faithfully. David’s response also shows his willingness to submit to God’s plan, even if it meant entering into a challenging situation.
God’s Sovereignty:While Saul had malicious intentions, it is important to note that God’s plan was at work behind the scenes. God had already chosen David to be the future king of Israel, and the events that unfolded in David’s life were part of God’s larger purpose. God would use David’s experiences, both positive and negative, to shape him into a strong and wise leader.
Foreshadowing of Future Events:This verse foreshadows the difficulties and trials that David would face in his relationship with Saul and the Philistines. As the story progresses, we see David’s loyalty and courage tested as he navigates the dangerous political landscape of Israel. This verse sets the stage for future conflicts and sets the tone for the complex dynamics between David and Saul.
Overall, 1 Samuel 18:21 provides insight into the complex relationship between David and Saul, highlighting Saul’s deceitful intentions and David’s willingness to walk in God’s plan despite the challenges. It also reminds us of God’s sovereignty, working behind the scenes to fulfil His purposes even in difficult circumstances.
