LUNG CANCER: An annual low-dose CT scan of the chest is recommended for adults 55 to 80 who have a 30-pack-year smoking history and either currently smoke or have quit within the past 15 years. A pack-year is the number of packs per day multiplied by the number of years the person has smoked. For example, smoking one pack a day for 30 years or two packs a day for 15 years both represent a 30-pack-year history.
Annual prostate cancer screening using a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test was once recommended, but is no longer. The test does a poor job of identifying prostate cancer and can lead to unnecessary treatment. The American Cancer Society recommends that black men and men with a family history of prostate cancer talk with their doctors about the pros and cons of testing beginning at 45. Other men should do so starting at 50.
PREVENTION: While cancer screenings are important for detecting cancer early-when it is most treatable-there is a lot you can do to prevent cancer in the first place. Not smoking is a critical step, but so are other lifestyle behaviors. The World Cancer Fund estimates that 20 percent of cancers diagnosed in the United States could be prevented by adopting a healthy diet, avoiding excessive alcohol intake, getting regular exercise and maintaining a healthy weight. All are habits worth taking up and keeping.
Thursday, March 23, 2017
Tuesday, March 21, 2017
I SCREEN, YOU SCREEN...l By Judith Hurley
When it comes to fighting cancer, nothing beats early detection.
The latest statistics on cancer are out, and the news is mostly good. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the U.S. death rate from cancer has dropped 25 percent since 1991. That translates to 2.1 million fewer cancer deaths a year. The decrease can be attributed to early detection efforts (such as colon cancer screenings and mammograms) and a drop in smoking rates.
Yet cancer remains the second-leading cause of death among Americans, so if you haven't thought about undergoing recommended cancer screenings, you should. In the United States, 41 out of every 100 men and 38 out of every 100 women will develop cancer in their lifetimes, and the risk for cancer increases with age. The top three cancers in men are prostate, lung and colorectal. In women, they are breast, lung and colorectal.
Accurate early-detection exams aren't available for all cancers, but they are for several of the biggies: colorectal, cervical, breast and lung. Nationally, however, screening rates lag behind their targets. In 2013, for example, only 58 percent of adults ages 50 to 75 were up to date on colorectal cancer screenings. The rates for cervical and breast cancer screenings were somewhat better
- 81 and 73 percent, respectively
-but still not optimal.
While many cancer screening trends are positive, Blacks, Latinos and low-income Americans are less likely to be screened. Not surprisingly, they are also more likely to have cancer diagnosed at a later, less treatable stage and to die of it. Fear of the procedure, busy schedules, lack of health insurance and a high co-pay for expensive procedures such as colonoscopies are all barriers to screening.
Types Of Screenings:
Depending on your age and risk factors, the guidelines for cancer screenings vary. Here is a roundup of the early cancer detection exams recommended by the U.S. Preventative Services Task Force, an independent panel of experts that advises the medical community:
BREAST CANCER: Women 50-74 should get a mammogram every two years. For women 40-49, mammogram decisions should be individualized.
CERVICAL CANCER: Woman 21 to 65 who have not had a hysterectomy should have a Pap test every three years.
COLORECTAL CANCER: Men and women 50-75 should have either a fecal occult blood test (FOBT) annually, a sigmoidoscopy every five years plus an FOBT every three years, or a colonoscopy every 10 years. An FOBT detects cancer that is already present. A sigmoidoscopy examines the rectum and lower portion of the colon, while a colonoscopy examines the entire colon. In both procedures, polyps can be detected and removed before they become cancerous.
The latest statistics on cancer are out, and the news is mostly good. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the U.S. death rate from cancer has dropped 25 percent since 1991. That translates to 2.1 million fewer cancer deaths a year. The decrease can be attributed to early detection efforts (such as colon cancer screenings and mammograms) and a drop in smoking rates.
Yet cancer remains the second-leading cause of death among Americans, so if you haven't thought about undergoing recommended cancer screenings, you should. In the United States, 41 out of every 100 men and 38 out of every 100 women will develop cancer in their lifetimes, and the risk for cancer increases with age. The top three cancers in men are prostate, lung and colorectal. In women, they are breast, lung and colorectal.
Accurate early-detection exams aren't available for all cancers, but they are for several of the biggies: colorectal, cervical, breast and lung. Nationally, however, screening rates lag behind their targets. In 2013, for example, only 58 percent of adults ages 50 to 75 were up to date on colorectal cancer screenings. The rates for cervical and breast cancer screenings were somewhat better
- 81 and 73 percent, respectively
-but still not optimal.
While many cancer screening trends are positive, Blacks, Latinos and low-income Americans are less likely to be screened. Not surprisingly, they are also more likely to have cancer diagnosed at a later, less treatable stage and to die of it. Fear of the procedure, busy schedules, lack of health insurance and a high co-pay for expensive procedures such as colonoscopies are all barriers to screening.
Types Of Screenings:
Depending on your age and risk factors, the guidelines for cancer screenings vary. Here is a roundup of the early cancer detection exams recommended by the U.S. Preventative Services Task Force, an independent panel of experts that advises the medical community:
BREAST CANCER: Women 50-74 should get a mammogram every two years. For women 40-49, mammogram decisions should be individualized.
CERVICAL CANCER: Woman 21 to 65 who have not had a hysterectomy should have a Pap test every three years.
COLORECTAL CANCER: Men and women 50-75 should have either a fecal occult blood test (FOBT) annually, a sigmoidoscopy every five years plus an FOBT every three years, or a colonoscopy every 10 years. An FOBT detects cancer that is already present. A sigmoidoscopy examines the rectum and lower portion of the colon, while a colonoscopy examines the entire colon. In both procedures, polyps can be detected and removed before they become cancerous.
Story 85: Da'vid Spares The Life Of Saul ll
He then went on to say, "The skirt of your robe which I hold in my hand is proof that I bear no ill-will against you, although you wickedly seek my life." Referring to his own feeling of unworthiness to meet the armies of Is'ra-el in battle, he added, "I am as harmless as a flea, and as insignificant as a dead dog, and should be regarded as beneath the dignity of your pursuit." Appealing to GOD'S Justice, Da'vid ended his sublime words of defense by saying, "May the LORD judge between me and you, observe the injustice of your pursuit upon my life, and deliver me out of your hand."
Saul was overcome by these words of Da'vid and by the mercy shown by one whose life he had sought. His cruel, hardened heart was melted by the forgiving spirit of the noble exile, and for a moment his sense of justice was awakened. When he realized that his life had been spared by Da'vid's mercy to a bitter foe, he said, "You are a better man than I, for you have returnt me good when I had done you evil. When the LORD placed me within your power, you did not kill me; and may GOD give you a good recompense for your kindness. I know that you are to be king of Is'ra-el, and I beg that you give me an oath that you will not cut off my sons after me, and that you will not destroy my name in the annals of Is'ra-el's history."
Saul then gave up the war against Da'vid and he and his men went home. Sad to say, however, his confession of guilt and shame were not sincere, for he soon renewed his determination to kill Da'vid and all who befriended him.
Saul was overcome by these words of Da'vid and by the mercy shown by one whose life he had sought. His cruel, hardened heart was melted by the forgiving spirit of the noble exile, and for a moment his sense of justice was awakened. When he realized that his life had been spared by Da'vid's mercy to a bitter foe, he said, "You are a better man than I, for you have returnt me good when I had done you evil. When the LORD placed me within your power, you did not kill me; and may GOD give you a good recompense for your kindness. I know that you are to be king of Is'ra-el, and I beg that you give me an oath that you will not cut off my sons after me, and that you will not destroy my name in the annals of Is'ra-el's history."
Saul then gave up the war against Da'vid and he and his men went home. Sad to say, however, his confession of guilt and shame were not sincere, for he soon renewed his determination to kill Da'vid and all who befriended him.
Saturday, March 18, 2017
Story 85: Da'vid Spares The Life Of Saul l
Da'vid took advantage of the rest provided by Saul's engagement with the invading Phi-lis'tines to escape into the wilderness of En-ge'di, a region filled with steep mountains, deep ravines, and hundreds of caverns, on the western shores of the Dead Sea about thirteen miles northwest of Ma'on. As soon as Saul's armies had succeeded in driving off the Phi-lis'tine raid, the angry king sent three thousand picked soldiers in pursuit of Da'vid. It was during this pursuit that there occurred one of the two incidents in which Da'vid showed his nobility of character by sparing the life of the king when it was placed within his power by a strange Providence.
Da'vid and his men were hiding among the rocks and caverns of that region, which was so steep and dangerous that only wild goats lived there. It so happened that Saul laid down to sleep at the entrance of one of the great caverns in which Da'vid and a few of his bravest men were taking refuge. While the king slept, unaware of his danger, Da'vid's men urged that he be put to death. They declared that the LORD had given them this opportunity of vengeance upon the wicked king who had sought to kill them without just cause.
How many strong, but conflicting desires must have throbbed in the heart of Da'vid! Apparently GOD had placed his cruel enemy in his power, and the urge to take revenge must have been hard to resist. Had not the time now come to bring peace to the land by ending the reign of a king who had been rejected by the LORD? Would he not bring a blessing to the entire nation by carrying out the sentence which had long since been pronounced upon the man who had been unfaithful to the LORD? Should he not take advantage of a remarkable opportunity which seemed to make it possible for him to become king at once?
Against these natural feelings of Da'vid and the urgent persuasions of his men, who insisted that he rid himself at once of his chief enemy, there remained the fact that Saul was still the king of Is'ra-el, and that Da'vid had never lifted up his hand against "the anointed of the LORD." Da'vid, therefore, gave up all thought of revenge, and forbade his men to harm the king. The fear of GOD held first place in his heart, so every idea of harming Saul was overcome by the teachings of True Religion. Da'vid merely cut off a small part of the king's robe, intending to show it to Saul at some later time as proof that he had spared his life when he might easily have taken it.
Later, when Saul awoke from sleep and renewed his search for the young exile, Da'vid ran after him, waving the piece which he had cut from the king's robe, and calling him to to stop. Da'vid then made a wonderful speech in his own defense, declaring anew his loyalty to the king, and denying that he had ever rebelled against him.
Never has there been a man with better reasons for deserting his leader than Da'vid. He deserved Saul's deepest gratitude, but was shown nothing but ingratitude and cruelty. He was a loyal subject of the king, and his flight had been one of self-defense rather than defiance. While he could not honor Saul as a man, he respected his position and authority as king of the nation. In his moving defense of his own conduct, Da'vid appealed to Saul's reason and to GOD'S Justice. Addressing him as "My lord the king," he said:
"Why do you give heed to the people who tell you that Da'vid seeks you harm? See how the LORD has this day delivered you into my hand, and my men urged me to kill you; but I have spared your life and will not put forth my hand against my lord, for you are the LORD'S anointed."
Da'vid and his men were hiding among the rocks and caverns of that region, which was so steep and dangerous that only wild goats lived there. It so happened that Saul laid down to sleep at the entrance of one of the great caverns in which Da'vid and a few of his bravest men were taking refuge. While the king slept, unaware of his danger, Da'vid's men urged that he be put to death. They declared that the LORD had given them this opportunity of vengeance upon the wicked king who had sought to kill them without just cause.
How many strong, but conflicting desires must have throbbed in the heart of Da'vid! Apparently GOD had placed his cruel enemy in his power, and the urge to take revenge must have been hard to resist. Had not the time now come to bring peace to the land by ending the reign of a king who had been rejected by the LORD? Would he not bring a blessing to the entire nation by carrying out the sentence which had long since been pronounced upon the man who had been unfaithful to the LORD? Should he not take advantage of a remarkable opportunity which seemed to make it possible for him to become king at once?
Against these natural feelings of Da'vid and the urgent persuasions of his men, who insisted that he rid himself at once of his chief enemy, there remained the fact that Saul was still the king of Is'ra-el, and that Da'vid had never lifted up his hand against "the anointed of the LORD." Da'vid, therefore, gave up all thought of revenge, and forbade his men to harm the king. The fear of GOD held first place in his heart, so every idea of harming Saul was overcome by the teachings of True Religion. Da'vid merely cut off a small part of the king's robe, intending to show it to Saul at some later time as proof that he had spared his life when he might easily have taken it.
Later, when Saul awoke from sleep and renewed his search for the young exile, Da'vid ran after him, waving the piece which he had cut from the king's robe, and calling him to to stop. Da'vid then made a wonderful speech in his own defense, declaring anew his loyalty to the king, and denying that he had ever rebelled against him.
Never has there been a man with better reasons for deserting his leader than Da'vid. He deserved Saul's deepest gratitude, but was shown nothing but ingratitude and cruelty. He was a loyal subject of the king, and his flight had been one of self-defense rather than defiance. While he could not honor Saul as a man, he respected his position and authority as king of the nation. In his moving defense of his own conduct, Da'vid appealed to Saul's reason and to GOD'S Justice. Addressing him as "My lord the king," he said:
"Why do you give heed to the people who tell you that Da'vid seeks you harm? See how the LORD has this day delivered you into my hand, and my men urged me to kill you; but I have spared your life and will not put forth my hand against my lord, for you are the LORD'S anointed."
Friday, March 17, 2017
Story 84: Da'vid Pursued By Saul lV
No sooner had Saul been informed of Da'vid's capture of Kei'lah that he formed a plot by which he hoped to entrap Da'vid and his men within the walls of Ju'dah. Again Da'vid turnt to the LORD for guidance, asking whether the men of Kei'lah would protect him or yield to the demand of Saul that he and his men be given to him as prisoners. When told that they would give in to the will of Saul, Da'vid led his men out into the wilderness of Ziph, moving from place to place among the rocks and isolated spots of that wild territory
When Saul was told that Da'vid had fled from Kei'lah, he gave up his plans to attack that town, but continued his pursuit of Da'vid and his men. Every time that news came to him of possible hiding places for them in the mountains he would send an army to search for his enemy, but the Providence of GOD kept Da'vid out of the way of the pursuing armies. Even the treachery of the Ziph'ites, who proposed to find Da'vid's hiding place and aid the army of Saul in capturing him, was brought to failure by the Hand of GOD.
At last, when it appeared that Saul's armies had caught Da'vid and his men in a trap, a messenger told the cruel king that the Phi-lis'tines were attacking his home country, and that he must send the army back at once to meet the invasion. Thus victory over his hated rival was denied Saul, and he was forced to turn his armies from the pursuit of Da'vid to the defense of their own land.
It was during these perilous days in the wilderness of Ziph, just after the shameful conduct of the men of Kei'lah, and just before the treachery of the Ziph'ites, that Da'vid was given strength by a friendly visit from Jon'a-than. Moved by his great love for Da'vid, this noble young prince ran the risk of death at the hands of his father by making a secret visit to his friend in exile. He urged Da'vid not to be afraid, for the LORD would not permit him to be captured by Saul, and assured him that he was soon to become the king of Is'ra-el. With deep religious feelings on the part of both, the covenant of friendship between these two great souls were renewed, and Da'vid's hopes for the future were made much stronger.
When Saul was told that Da'vid had fled from Kei'lah, he gave up his plans to attack that town, but continued his pursuit of Da'vid and his men. Every time that news came to him of possible hiding places for them in the mountains he would send an army to search for his enemy, but the Providence of GOD kept Da'vid out of the way of the pursuing armies. Even the treachery of the Ziph'ites, who proposed to find Da'vid's hiding place and aid the army of Saul in capturing him, was brought to failure by the Hand of GOD.
At last, when it appeared that Saul's armies had caught Da'vid and his men in a trap, a messenger told the cruel king that the Phi-lis'tines were attacking his home country, and that he must send the army back at once to meet the invasion. Thus victory over his hated rival was denied Saul, and he was forced to turn his armies from the pursuit of Da'vid to the defense of their own land.
It was during these perilous days in the wilderness of Ziph, just after the shameful conduct of the men of Kei'lah, and just before the treachery of the Ziph'ites, that Da'vid was given strength by a friendly visit from Jon'a-than. Moved by his great love for Da'vid, this noble young prince ran the risk of death at the hands of his father by making a secret visit to his friend in exile. He urged Da'vid not to be afraid, for the LORD would not permit him to be captured by Saul, and assured him that he was soon to become the king of Is'ra-el. With deep religious feelings on the part of both, the covenant of friendship between these two great souls were renewed, and Da'vid's hopes for the future were made much stronger.
Thursday, March 16, 2017
Story 84: Da'vid Pursued By Saul lll
Meanwhile Da'vid performed an act of kindness for his father and mother which clearly proves the nobility of his character. He secretly crossed the river Jor'dan just north of its entrance to the Dead Sea, went up into a mountain fastness in the land of Mo'ab to the southeast, and arranged for his parents to have a home where they would be secure from the anger of Saul during these troubled times. He may have appealed to the Mo'ab-ites for this favor in the name of his great-grandmother Ruth, who had been a member of their nation, and it is possible that his parents were lodged in the home of some of the descendants of Ruth's family.
About this time the Phi-lis'tines were making new invasions into the territory of Ju'dah, and the LORD planned to have Da'vid put an end to these raids. He, therefore, sent Da'vid a prophet named Gad to tell him to go at once into Ju'dah, for Saul was too greatly disturbed in mind to be of service in checking these attacks from the ancient foes of Is'ra-el.
The town of Kei'lah in Ju'dah, not too far from He'bron, had been captured by the Phi-lis'tines, who had robbed the people of their grains and fruits. Da'vid inquired of the LORD, saying, "Shall I go and smite these Phi-lis'tines?" God answered his prayer by telling him to go and save the town. Da'vid's men hesitsted to make this effort, for they were in danger of attack from both the Phi-lis'tines and the armies of Saul. When Da'vid inquired again of the LORD, and was given the same command, his men rallied to his leadership and won a great victory over the Phi-lis'tines. Large quantities of war-spoils were taken, and Kei'lah and its inhabitants were saved.
About this time the Phi-lis'tines were making new invasions into the territory of Ju'dah, and the LORD planned to have Da'vid put an end to these raids. He, therefore, sent Da'vid a prophet named Gad to tell him to go at once into Ju'dah, for Saul was too greatly disturbed in mind to be of service in checking these attacks from the ancient foes of Is'ra-el.
The town of Kei'lah in Ju'dah, not too far from He'bron, had been captured by the Phi-lis'tines, who had robbed the people of their grains and fruits. Da'vid inquired of the LORD, saying, "Shall I go and smite these Phi-lis'tines?" God answered his prayer by telling him to go and save the town. Da'vid's men hesitsted to make this effort, for they were in danger of attack from both the Phi-lis'tines and the armies of Saul. When Da'vid inquired again of the LORD, and was given the same command, his men rallied to his leadership and won a great victory over the Phi-lis'tines. Large quantities of war-spoils were taken, and Kei'lah and its inhabitants were saved.
Wednesday, March 15, 2017
Story 84: Da'vid Pursued By Saul ll
Even though A-him'e-lech explained that he had befriended Da'vid without knowing that he was an outlaw, and denied that he or any of the priests were disloyal to the king, and even though the soldiers refused to slay the priests, Saul was not to be baffled in his hatred toward anyone who showed the slightest kindness to Da'vid. Do'eg was ordered to slay the priests, and that day saw the murder of eighty-five religious leaders of Is'ra-el. Only A-bi'a-thar escaped, and he joint Da'vid at the first opportunity.
It must have pained the heart of Da'vid to learn of the terrible outcome of his visit with the priest at Nob, and perhaps he felt somewhat to blame. He received A-bi'a-thar with great kindness, and assured him that his life would be safeguarded. Not satisfied with the slaughter of the priests, Saul had sent his men to Nob and utterly destroyed the town.
Feeling that it was no longer safe for him to remain anywhere in the land of Is'ra-el, Da'vid then fled into Phi-lis'ti-a and sought refuge in the city of Gath. He probably thought that he would no longer be recognized there as the one who had slain the Phi-lis'tine giant, and that these people would be glad to welcome anyone who was fleeing from Saul. He was recognized, however, and saved his life only by pretending that he had lost his mind.
Da'vid then fled back across the border of Is'ra-el into the hill country and took refuge in the limestone cliffs and caverns in a place called A-dul'-lam, which was in the region southeast of Beth'le-hem. His brothers and kinsmen learnt where he was hiding and hastened to join him. Many people in the land who had suffered from Saul's failure to protect them, or who had been oppressed by him, rallied to the cause of Da'vid. Before long he had a company of four hundred men, many of whom were noted for their bravery and devotion to the right.
It was while Da'vid was hiding in the cliffs of A-dul'lam that he was joint by some of the men who were later known as his "mighty men" or heroes. Among them were his nephew Ab'i-shai, who became a famous general; Be-na'iah, whose great strength was shown in slaying a lion single-handed, and in killing two lion-like men of Mo'ab; E-le-a'zar, who once smote the Phi-lis'tines until his hand was so weary that it clave to his sword; and Je-hoi'a-da, who slew an E-gyp'tian with his own sword after tearing it from the hands of his enemy.
Among the brave followers who joint Da'vid at this time was a band of Ga'dites, who swam the Jor'dan when its banks were overflowed and scattered all enemies who tried to halt their march. When the time arrived for Da'vid to leave his hiding place in A-dul'lam, his band of loyal friends had grown to six hundred men, all noted for their courage and patriotism.
It must have pained the heart of Da'vid to learn of the terrible outcome of his visit with the priest at Nob, and perhaps he felt somewhat to blame. He received A-bi'a-thar with great kindness, and assured him that his life would be safeguarded. Not satisfied with the slaughter of the priests, Saul had sent his men to Nob and utterly destroyed the town.
Feeling that it was no longer safe for him to remain anywhere in the land of Is'ra-el, Da'vid then fled into Phi-lis'ti-a and sought refuge in the city of Gath. He probably thought that he would no longer be recognized there as the one who had slain the Phi-lis'tine giant, and that these people would be glad to welcome anyone who was fleeing from Saul. He was recognized, however, and saved his life only by pretending that he had lost his mind.
Da'vid then fled back across the border of Is'ra-el into the hill country and took refuge in the limestone cliffs and caverns in a place called A-dul'-lam, which was in the region southeast of Beth'le-hem. His brothers and kinsmen learnt where he was hiding and hastened to join him. Many people in the land who had suffered from Saul's failure to protect them, or who had been oppressed by him, rallied to the cause of Da'vid. Before long he had a company of four hundred men, many of whom were noted for their bravery and devotion to the right.
It was while Da'vid was hiding in the cliffs of A-dul'lam that he was joint by some of the men who were later known as his "mighty men" or heroes. Among them were his nephew Ab'i-shai, who became a famous general; Be-na'iah, whose great strength was shown in slaying a lion single-handed, and in killing two lion-like men of Mo'ab; E-le-a'zar, who once smote the Phi-lis'tines until his hand was so weary that it clave to his sword; and Je-hoi'a-da, who slew an E-gyp'tian with his own sword after tearing it from the hands of his enemy.
Among the brave followers who joint Da'vid at this time was a band of Ga'dites, who swam the Jor'dan when its banks were overflowed and scattered all enemies who tried to halt their march. When the time arrived for Da'vid to leave his hiding place in A-dul'lam, his band of loyal friends had grown to six hundred men, all noted for their courage and patriotism.
Tuesday, March 14, 2017
Story 84: Da'vid Pursued By Saul l
When Da'vid said farewell to Jon'a-than and went away in exile, never to return to the house of the king, he must have known that Saul had been rejected by the LORD, and that he was destined to occupy the throne of Is'ra-el. Instead of leading a revolution, however, he merely sought to protect his own life. He went away, not as a rebel, but as a loyal subject of the king whose unjust hatred and murderous envy had forced him to flee.
During the trying times which followed he may have done some things which seem far beneath the nobility of character and uprightness of conduct which had marked his career up to this time, but never was he guilty of the slightest act of treason or disloyalty to the king. Even while he was being sought by Saul under the false charge of outlawry, he led his followers in war against Is'ra-el's enemies, and on more than one occasion saved his nation from attacks by invading heathens. Twice he spared the life of Saul when the king was completely in his power.
Soon after leaving Jon'a-than, Da'vid visited a place called Nob, which was not far from Je-ru'sa-lem on the road to the north. A priest named A-him'e-lech was in charge of the place of worship in this little town, and his son A-bi'a-thar acted as an assistant. Da'vid was very hungry, but did not think it safe to ask the townspeople for food; knowing that the priest would not betray him to Saul, he asked for bread. The priest replied that the only food he had was the shewbread which was being removed from the sacred table, the time having come when it must be replaced with fresh bread. It was unlawful for anyone except the priests to eat this bread. However, A-bi'a-thar was so touched by Da'vid's urgent need that he gave him the shewbread, and the conduct of both Da'vid and the priest was approved hundreds of years later by the SAV'IOR.
Da'vid thought it best not to tell A-him'e-lech that he was fleeing from Saul because the king sought his life, but did say that he had left the king's house in such haste that he had failed to provide himself with a sword. He probably knew that the weapon which he had taken from Go-li'ath after their memorable combat had been placed in the shrine at Nob for safekeeping, and for this reason asked the priest for a sword. The priest told him that this was the only sword at hand, and gladly gave it to him.
The visit of Da'vid to Nob was followed by a sad event in which Saul was guilty of a terrible crime. An E'dom-ite named Do'eg, a chief herdsman of Saul, happened to be present when Da'vid was given the shewbread to eat. He reported the incident to Saul, and the angry king summoned A-him'e-lech and all the priests of his family to come to Gib'e-ah at once. After accusing them of befriending an enemy of the king, Saul commanded his guards to slay them, but the soldiers shrank in holy fear from laying violent hands upon the priests of GOD.
During the trying times which followed he may have done some things which seem far beneath the nobility of character and uprightness of conduct which had marked his career up to this time, but never was he guilty of the slightest act of treason or disloyalty to the king. Even while he was being sought by Saul under the false charge of outlawry, he led his followers in war against Is'ra-el's enemies, and on more than one occasion saved his nation from attacks by invading heathens. Twice he spared the life of Saul when the king was completely in his power.
Soon after leaving Jon'a-than, Da'vid visited a place called Nob, which was not far from Je-ru'sa-lem on the road to the north. A priest named A-him'e-lech was in charge of the place of worship in this little town, and his son A-bi'a-thar acted as an assistant. Da'vid was very hungry, but did not think it safe to ask the townspeople for food; knowing that the priest would not betray him to Saul, he asked for bread. The priest replied that the only food he had was the shewbread which was being removed from the sacred table, the time having come when it must be replaced with fresh bread. It was unlawful for anyone except the priests to eat this bread. However, A-bi'a-thar was so touched by Da'vid's urgent need that he gave him the shewbread, and the conduct of both Da'vid and the priest was approved hundreds of years later by the SAV'IOR.
Da'vid thought it best not to tell A-him'e-lech that he was fleeing from Saul because the king sought his life, but did say that he had left the king's house in such haste that he had failed to provide himself with a sword. He probably knew that the weapon which he had taken from Go-li'ath after their memorable combat had been placed in the shrine at Nob for safekeeping, and for this reason asked the priest for a sword. The priest told him that this was the only sword at hand, and gladly gave it to him.
The visit of Da'vid to Nob was followed by a sad event in which Saul was guilty of a terrible crime. An E'dom-ite named Do'eg, a chief herdsman of Saul, happened to be present when Da'vid was given the shewbread to eat. He reported the incident to Saul, and the angry king summoned A-him'e-lech and all the priests of his family to come to Gib'e-ah at once. After accusing them of befriending an enemy of the king, Saul commanded his guards to slay them, but the soldiers shrank in holy fear from laying violent hands upon the priests of GOD.
Monday, March 13, 2017
Story 83: Jon'a-than's Arrow Warns Da'vid Of Saul's Anger ll
Jon'a-than and Da'vid arranged a clever plan by which the latter could be secretly informed of Saul's feelings toward him. On the day following the close of the festival Da'vid was to hide behind some cliffs in the shallow valley between Gib'e-ah and Nob, while Jon'a-than was to take his bow and shoot three arrows in the direction of Da'vid's hiding place. If the arrows were shot beyond the hiding place, it would be a sign of danger; if they fell short, it meant that Saul intended no harm toward Da'vid. A boy was to be brought along to pick up the arrows, and Da'vid was to learn the message from his friend through the directions given to the boy.
On the first day of the feast Da'vid's place was vacant, but Saul made no inquiry. On the second day the king noticed the absence of Da'vid and asked Jon'a-than why he had not been there on either day of the festival. Jon'a-than mentioned Da'vid's wish to attend the service at Beth'le-hem, and told his father that he had given him permission to go. Saul was so vexed with his son for taking the part of Da'vid that he hurled a spear at him. He accused the young prince of forming the strongest ties of friendship with a rival to the throne, and tried to turn him against Da'vid by appealing to his own ambition and self-advantage. Saul then declared with vehement anger, "As for Da'vid, he shall surely die"; and ordered his men to see to it that the young officer was brought to him at once.
On the following day Jon'a-than went to the place agreed upon with Da'vid and shot the arrows beyond the place of hiding, shouting to the boy he had brought with him, "The arrow is beyond thee!" Then he sent the boy away and went into the field to meet Da'vid. The two devoted friends embraced and kissed each other on the cheek, weeping bitterly as they faced a separation which might be long. Da'vid, who seems to have been the more deeply affected of the two, clung to Jon'a-than a long time before he could bear to let him go; then he said, "Go in peace, the LORD shall be between me and thee, and between my children and thy children forever."
From this time to the end of Saul's reign, Da'vid led the life of a roaming exile and hunted outlaw. He wandered over the country, spending most of his time in the wilderness south of Je-ru'sa-lem, constantly pursued by the soldiers of the angry king.
On the first day of the feast Da'vid's place was vacant, but Saul made no inquiry. On the second day the king noticed the absence of Da'vid and asked Jon'a-than why he had not been there on either day of the festival. Jon'a-than mentioned Da'vid's wish to attend the service at Beth'le-hem, and told his father that he had given him permission to go. Saul was so vexed with his son for taking the part of Da'vid that he hurled a spear at him. He accused the young prince of forming the strongest ties of friendship with a rival to the throne, and tried to turn him against Da'vid by appealing to his own ambition and self-advantage. Saul then declared with vehement anger, "As for Da'vid, he shall surely die"; and ordered his men to see to it that the young officer was brought to him at once.
On the following day Jon'a-than went to the place agreed upon with Da'vid and shot the arrows beyond the place of hiding, shouting to the boy he had brought with him, "The arrow is beyond thee!" Then he sent the boy away and went into the field to meet Da'vid. The two devoted friends embraced and kissed each other on the cheek, weeping bitterly as they faced a separation which might be long. Da'vid, who seems to have been the more deeply affected of the two, clung to Jon'a-than a long time before he could bear to let him go; then he said, "Go in peace, the LORD shall be between me and thee, and between my children and thy children forever."
From this time to the end of Saul's reign, Da'vid led the life of a roaming exile and hunted outlaw. He wandered over the country, spending most of his time in the wilderness south of Je-ru'sa-lem, constantly pursued by the soldiers of the angry king.
Saturday, March 11, 2017
Story 83: Jon'a-than's Arrow Warns Da'vid Of Saul's Anger l
While Da'vid was at Na'ioth, Saul made two unsuccessful attempts to have him captured. He sent messengers to arrest him and bring him back to the king's court, But on each occasion the messengers were so carried away by the religious zeal of the prophets that they took part in the worship, and finally returnt without Da'vid. Saul then decided to go after Da'vid himself, but as he came near Sam'u-el's house he was suddenly filled with a strange religious excitement; all day and all night he was in the power of the Spirit of GOD, calling upon His name as if He were a prophet. While the king was in this exalted state Da'vid went to his friend Jon'a-than for advice. Saul's anger seems to have been subdued by his strange experience at Na'ioth, for he went quietly home after yielding to Sam'u-el's urgings that he give up his unjustified hatred for Da'vid.
It appears that by this time there was an understanding between Jon'a-than and Da'vid that no member of Saul's family should be permitted to succeed him as king, and that Da'vid was destined to become the ruler of Is'ra-el. In the heart of Jon'a-than, however, there was no resentment to the Will of GOD nor ill-feeling toward Da'vid.
In the meeting between Jon'a-than and Da'vid at this time their covenant of perpetual friendship was renewed, and Da'vid promised that in the event of Jon'a-than's death he would always show kindness to the family and descendants of his friend.
On the day after this meeting there began at the king's house a festival in honor of the new moon. This festival lasted for two days, and it was customary for all members of the king's family to attend. Da'vid and Jon'a-than knew that it would be dangerous for the young captain to appear at Saul's table for the festival, but they also felt that his absence might be taken as an insult to Saul. It was important that Da'vid find out Saul's intentions toward him before renewing his visits to his home.
The plan adopted by the two bosom friends at this time was most unusual. Since there was a religious festival going on at Beth'le-hem at the same time, it was decided that Da'vid should stay away from the gathering at Saul's house, and that Jon'a-than should explain the absence by saying that he wished to be with his family during the services at Beth'le-hem. It was felt by both of these young men that the manner on which Saul accepted the absence of Da'vid from the feast in his home would indicate his future intentions.
Friday, March 10, 2017
Story 82: Saul's Increasing Jealousy; Jon'a-than's Love For Da'vid lll
Not many days passed before Jon'a-than had an opportunity to prove his friendship. Saul announced to his officers that he intended to kill Da'vid at once, and Jon'a-than came forward to plead for the condemned officer. He then secretly warned Da'vid of his great danger, advising him to go into hiding until he could intercede with his father.
Jon'a-than then boldly, but with proper respect for his father defended his young friend. In gentle tones he reminded Saul of Da'vid's willingness to give his life for the welfare of the nation when he slew Go-li'ath, and when he attacked the Phi-lis'tines, and of his unquestioned loyalty to the king in all his services. The king's anger was quieted for the time, and he gave his word that Da'vid should not be slain. The young captain was welcomed once more at the king's house, and was encouraged to resume his service in the army. This he did, and slew large numbers of Phi-lis'tines in battle.
Before long, however, Saul was troubled again by fits of depression and unrest, so Da'vid tried to soothe him by playing the harp. Once again the king's sudden anger led him to hurl a javelin at the one who sought to help him, but again Da'vid was unharmed. Men were sent to guard the home of Da'vid so that he could not escape, and Saul declared that he should be slain the next morning.
Mi'chal's quick thinking saved the life of her husband on this occasion. After helping him escape through a window, she placed an idol in Da'vid's bed and told the messengers of Saul that he was too ill to be disturbed. Her trick succeeded, but the next day Saul ordered that Da'vid be brought to him in his bed, so that he might slay him at once. Saul then rebuked his daughter severely for deceiving him, and she defended herself by saying that Da'vid had threatened to kill her if she did not help him. This was not true, but it made many people believe that she was secretly in league with her father in the effort to take the life of Da'vid.
After making his escape, Da'vid went directly to the home of the prophet Sam'u-el in Ra'mah and told him of Saul's repeated efforts to kill him. It must have brought great relief and peace of mind to Da'vid to enjoy once again the friendly help and advice of the religious leader of the nation. They talked together for a long time, and then went to a place called Na'ioth, where a group of young prophets were engaged in worship. How long Da'vid remained here we are not told, but it was probably for a considerable time. It is thought by some that it was during this restful period in company with the prophets that he wrote the part of the 119th Psalm which so beautifully describes the security of those who trust in the Law of the LORD. Here are some of the gems from that Psalm which may well describe Da'vid's feelings at the time:
"Princes did also sit and speak against me;
But thy servant did meditate in Thy statues.
The proud have had me in derision,
Yet have I not declined from Thy Law.
Trouble and anguish have taken hold on me;
Yet Thy Commandments are my delight.
Oh how I love Thy Law!
It is my meditation all the day.
The Law of Thy mouth is better unto me
Than thousands of gold and silver.
I know, O LORD, that Thy judgments are right,
And Thou in faithfulness has afflicted me.
It is good for me that I have been afflicted;
That I might learn Thy statutes."
Jon'a-than then boldly, but with proper respect for his father defended his young friend. In gentle tones he reminded Saul of Da'vid's willingness to give his life for the welfare of the nation when he slew Go-li'ath, and when he attacked the Phi-lis'tines, and of his unquestioned loyalty to the king in all his services. The king's anger was quieted for the time, and he gave his word that Da'vid should not be slain. The young captain was welcomed once more at the king's house, and was encouraged to resume his service in the army. This he did, and slew large numbers of Phi-lis'tines in battle.
Before long, however, Saul was troubled again by fits of depression and unrest, so Da'vid tried to soothe him by playing the harp. Once again the king's sudden anger led him to hurl a javelin at the one who sought to help him, but again Da'vid was unharmed. Men were sent to guard the home of Da'vid so that he could not escape, and Saul declared that he should be slain the next morning.
Mi'chal's quick thinking saved the life of her husband on this occasion. After helping him escape through a window, she placed an idol in Da'vid's bed and told the messengers of Saul that he was too ill to be disturbed. Her trick succeeded, but the next day Saul ordered that Da'vid be brought to him in his bed, so that he might slay him at once. Saul then rebuked his daughter severely for deceiving him, and she defended herself by saying that Da'vid had threatened to kill her if she did not help him. This was not true, but it made many people believe that she was secretly in league with her father in the effort to take the life of Da'vid.
After making his escape, Da'vid went directly to the home of the prophet Sam'u-el in Ra'mah and told him of Saul's repeated efforts to kill him. It must have brought great relief and peace of mind to Da'vid to enjoy once again the friendly help and advice of the religious leader of the nation. They talked together for a long time, and then went to a place called Na'ioth, where a group of young prophets were engaged in worship. How long Da'vid remained here we are not told, but it was probably for a considerable time. It is thought by some that it was during this restful period in company with the prophets that he wrote the part of the 119th Psalm which so beautifully describes the security of those who trust in the Law of the LORD. Here are some of the gems from that Psalm which may well describe Da'vid's feelings at the time:
"Princes did also sit and speak against me;
But thy servant did meditate in Thy statues.
The proud have had me in derision,
Yet have I not declined from Thy Law.
Trouble and anguish have taken hold on me;
Yet Thy Commandments are my delight.
Oh how I love Thy Law!
It is my meditation all the day.
The Law of Thy mouth is better unto me
Than thousands of gold and silver.
I know, O LORD, that Thy judgments are right,
And Thou in faithfulness has afflicted me.
It is good for me that I have been afflicted;
That I might learn Thy statutes."
Wednesday, March 8, 2017
Story 82: Saul's Increasing Jealousy; Jon'a-than's Love For Da'vid ll
Saul was so determined to entrap Da'vid in some scheme which would cost him his life, that he sent his courtiers to the brave officer with a new proposal. They told Da'vid that he would be given the hand of Mi'chal in marriage when he had slain one hundred Phi-lis'tines. He accepted this challenge to his bravery, went out against the Phi-lis'tines, and slew twice the number required by the crafty king.
The king then had no other choice than to permit the marriage of Da'vid and Mi'chal, which took place at once. The Phi-lis'tines thought that Da'vid would follow the He'brew custom which exempted newly married men from military service for one year, so they planned a series of attacks upon Is'ra-el in revenge for the losses which they had suffered at the hands of this great warrior.
Instead of taking advantage of this privilege, Da'vid remained on active service in the army and proved himself more valiant than ever; so successful was he in these new combats that Saul's jealousy and determination to have him killt became more fierce with every passing day. As Da'vid continued to grow in favor with the people, Saul's hatred for him broke out in desperate attacks upon his life.
The one earthly source of cheer and hope for Da'vid during these trials was his friendship with Jon'a-than, Saul's eldest son. They were drawn together by kindred qualities of nobility, heroism, and love for the LORD. Just as the shepherd lad had proved his courageous faith by meeting the giant in single combat, so the young prince of Is'ra-el had shown the same boldness when he scaled the rock and entered the garrison of the Phi-lis'tines. They were both possessed with great concern for the welfare of Is'ra-el, and by the spirit of humility which always accompanies true greatness.
It is not strange, therefore, that when the young shepherd stood before Saul and proved his holy motives both by humble conduct and noble words, Jon'a-than's heart went out to him with an affection stronger than life or death. "He loved him as he loved his own soul," and there began on that day a friendship which has long been famed in history. The hearts of the two young men were bount together in a spiritual union which has seldom been equaled.
Jon'a-than then displayed the highest mark of honor which a prince can bestow upon a subject. He gave Da'vid his own royal robes and official weapons of war, and announced his willingness to give up his own advantages as the son of the king for the good of his friend. A perpetual covenant of friendship between the two young men was made that day, and it withstood the strains of the civil war and revolution in which Da'vid became an outlaw and a fugitive.
The king then had no other choice than to permit the marriage of Da'vid and Mi'chal, which took place at once. The Phi-lis'tines thought that Da'vid would follow the He'brew custom which exempted newly married men from military service for one year, so they planned a series of attacks upon Is'ra-el in revenge for the losses which they had suffered at the hands of this great warrior.
Instead of taking advantage of this privilege, Da'vid remained on active service in the army and proved himself more valiant than ever; so successful was he in these new combats that Saul's jealousy and determination to have him killt became more fierce with every passing day. As Da'vid continued to grow in favor with the people, Saul's hatred for him broke out in desperate attacks upon his life.
The one earthly source of cheer and hope for Da'vid during these trials was his friendship with Jon'a-than, Saul's eldest son. They were drawn together by kindred qualities of nobility, heroism, and love for the LORD. Just as the shepherd lad had proved his courageous faith by meeting the giant in single combat, so the young prince of Is'ra-el had shown the same boldness when he scaled the rock and entered the garrison of the Phi-lis'tines. They were both possessed with great concern for the welfare of Is'ra-el, and by the spirit of humility which always accompanies true greatness.
It is not strange, therefore, that when the young shepherd stood before Saul and proved his holy motives both by humble conduct and noble words, Jon'a-than's heart went out to him with an affection stronger than life or death. "He loved him as he loved his own soul," and there began on that day a friendship which has long been famed in history. The hearts of the two young men were bount together in a spiritual union which has seldom been equaled.
Jon'a-than then displayed the highest mark of honor which a prince can bestow upon a subject. He gave Da'vid his own royal robes and official weapons of war, and announced his willingness to give up his own advantages as the son of the king for the good of his friend. A perpetual covenant of friendship between the two young men was made that day, and it withstood the strains of the civil war and revolution in which Da'vid became an outlaw and a fugitive.
Monday, March 6, 2017
Story 82: Saul's Increasing Jealousy; Jon'a-than's Love For Da'vid l
After the heroic feat of Da'vid in slaying Go-li'ath in single combat, Saul showed the same ungrateful, selfish spirit which had possessed him after the victory of his eldest son Jon'a-than at Mich'mash. He pretended not to know who Da'vid was, and tried to deprive him of the honor in which he was held by the people. The love which Saul had once felt toward his young musician was now turnt into envy, for the king could not bear to hear anyone praised but himself.
Da'vid came back from his great victory carrying the head of Go-li'ath, which he presented to the king. Under the circumstances, Saul was forced to acknowledge Da'vid's bravery by suitable honors and rewards, so he received him into his own house and made him an officer in the army.
A few days passed before the armies returnt from pursuing the Phi-lis'tines, and the usual celebrations of victory took place. When the soldiers returnt, Da'vid took his place among them in the triumphal march, for his victory over Go-li'ath had done more than anything else to end the war.
Even though Saul had already publicly honored the heroism of Da'vid and had appointed him as an officer in his army, he could not overcome his envy; to hear the people sing the praises of one who had put his own glory to shame deeply aroused the king's anger. Da'vid's loyalty to the army won him the good-will of the other officers and soldiers, while his courage in warfare made him more popular than ever with the Is'ra-el-ites. Much as he hated to do it, Saul was obliged to show Da'vid the same courtesy and favor which the other officers enjoyed, and to send him out in battle whenever the peace of Is'ra-el was threatened by further uprisings by the Phi-lis'tines.
These circumstances brought great unhappiness to Saul, and he fell once again into fits of melancholy and fierce unrest. He was constantly haunted by Sam'u-el's report that the LORD had chosen another to take his place upon the throne. The black moods which had been the occasion for bringing the shepherd boy to him some years before now became worse than ever. So Da'vid was invited once more to play the harp for him with the hope that these trying spells might be driven away. This time, however, the sweet music of Da'vid no longer soothed the troubled spirit of the king. Saul's heart was filled with murderous jealousy, for he began to suspect that the young hero was the LORD'S choice for the throne of Is'ra-el. Twice he tried to kill Da'vid by throwing a javelin at him, but each time the young man was able to dodge the deadly weapon.
Convinced that the LORD was with Da'vid, and that he himself was rejected by GOD, Saul decided to place him in command of a thousand men in some outpost where he could not see him. But even this plan did not overcome his determination to do away with Da'vid. He began to seek some means of having him killed by some of the officers, or by the Phi-lis'tines in battle.
Saul pretended to have great admiration for Da'vid because of his bravery and prudent behavior, and offered to give him his eldest daughter in marriage. Of course, he did not really wish to have Da'vid become his son-in-law, but the offer was made in the hope of encouraging him to attempt such dangerous exploits in war that he would eventually be killed. Saul had no intention of keeping his promise, and when the time came for Da'vid to marry Me'rab, the princess who had been promised him in marriage, it was found that she had been given to another officer in the army.
In the meantime Saul's younger daughter Mi'chal had fallen in love with the noble young officer, and the king proposed once more to make Da'vid his son-in-law. He was no more sincere this time than before, and his failure to keep the promise concerning Me'rab seems to have led Da'vid to pay little attention to the second proposal.
Da'vid came back from his great victory carrying the head of Go-li'ath, which he presented to the king. Under the circumstances, Saul was forced to acknowledge Da'vid's bravery by suitable honors and rewards, so he received him into his own house and made him an officer in the army.
A few days passed before the armies returnt from pursuing the Phi-lis'tines, and the usual celebrations of victory took place. When the soldiers returnt, Da'vid took his place among them in the triumphal march, for his victory over Go-li'ath had done more than anything else to end the war.
Even though Saul had already publicly honored the heroism of Da'vid and had appointed him as an officer in his army, he could not overcome his envy; to hear the people sing the praises of one who had put his own glory to shame deeply aroused the king's anger. Da'vid's loyalty to the army won him the good-will of the other officers and soldiers, while his courage in warfare made him more popular than ever with the Is'ra-el-ites. Much as he hated to do it, Saul was obliged to show Da'vid the same courtesy and favor which the other officers enjoyed, and to send him out in battle whenever the peace of Is'ra-el was threatened by further uprisings by the Phi-lis'tines.
These circumstances brought great unhappiness to Saul, and he fell once again into fits of melancholy and fierce unrest. He was constantly haunted by Sam'u-el's report that the LORD had chosen another to take his place upon the throne. The black moods which had been the occasion for bringing the shepherd boy to him some years before now became worse than ever. So Da'vid was invited once more to play the harp for him with the hope that these trying spells might be driven away. This time, however, the sweet music of Da'vid no longer soothed the troubled spirit of the king. Saul's heart was filled with murderous jealousy, for he began to suspect that the young hero was the LORD'S choice for the throne of Is'ra-el. Twice he tried to kill Da'vid by throwing a javelin at him, but each time the young man was able to dodge the deadly weapon.
Convinced that the LORD was with Da'vid, and that he himself was rejected by GOD, Saul decided to place him in command of a thousand men in some outpost where he could not see him. But even this plan did not overcome his determination to do away with Da'vid. He began to seek some means of having him killed by some of the officers, or by the Phi-lis'tines in battle.
Saul pretended to have great admiration for Da'vid because of his bravery and prudent behavior, and offered to give him his eldest daughter in marriage. Of course, he did not really wish to have Da'vid become his son-in-law, but the offer was made in the hope of encouraging him to attempt such dangerous exploits in war that he would eventually be killed. Saul had no intention of keeping his promise, and when the time came for Da'vid to marry Me'rab, the princess who had been promised him in marriage, it was found that she had been given to another officer in the army.
In the meantime Saul's younger daughter Mi'chal had fallen in love with the noble young officer, and the king proposed once more to make Da'vid his son-in-law. He was no more sincere this time than before, and his failure to keep the promise concerning Me'rab seems to have led Da'vid to pay little attention to the second proposal.
Saturday, March 4, 2017
Story 81: A Shepherd Boy Slays The Phi-lis'tine Giant lll
Go-li'ath felt insulted when he and his armor-bearer stood before the young shepherd of Is'ra-el. Here was a mere boy, armed only with a staff and sling, going out to meet the greatest warrior of the Phi-lis'tine nation as though he were about to kill a dog with a club. Go-li'ath then announced that he would feed the flesh of his opponent to the birds of the air and to the beasts of the field.
The taunts of Go-li'ath were quietly answered by Da'vid with confidence in GOD'S help, and with an assurance of victory which could have been given to him only by the LORD. He boldly met the defiance and scorn of the giant with these inspired words:
"Thou comest to me with a sword, and with a spear, and with a shield; but I come to thee in the
name of the LORD of hosts, the GOD of the armies of Is'ra-el, whom thou hast defied. This day
will the LORD deliver thee into mine hand; and I will smite thee, and take thine head from thee;
and I will give the carcass of the host of the Phi-lis'tines this day unto the fowls of the air, and to
the wild beasts of the earth; that all the earth may know that there is a GOD in Is'ra-el. And all this
assembly shall know that the LORD saveth not with the sword and spear, for the battle is the
LORD'S, and He will give you into our hands."
Da'vid then took one of the smooth stones from his shepherd's bag, placed it in his sling, and hurled it with deadly aim at the forehead of the giant. The stone pierced the skull of the giant, and Go-li'ath fell to the ground. Da'vid then rushed up to the fallen giant, drew Go-li'ath's sword, cut off the head of his enemy, and carried it back to the camps of Is'ra-el as a trophy of his victory.
This super-human feat of Da'vid was accomplished by his grasp upon the unseen forces of GOD. He fully believed that GOD who had delivered him out of the paw of the lion, and out of the paw of the bear, would also deliver him out of the hand of the giant Phi-lis'tine. His previous life had been a life of faith unseen, and hence he was ready for any emergency. It was to the LIVING GOD that he turnt for his pivotal victory.
The death of their champion struck terror into the hearts of the Phi-lis'tine armies, and they fled toward their own land, different groups taking three separate routes in their efforts to escape death at the hands of the pursuing Is'ra-el-ites. The armies of Is'ra-el slew thousands of the fleeing Phi-lis'tines, pursuing the remnants of the defeated armies even to the gates of their cities of Ek'ron and Gath. Da'vid meanwhile took the head of Go-li'ath to Je-ru'sa-lem, and later delivered it to Saul in person.
The taunts of Go-li'ath were quietly answered by Da'vid with confidence in GOD'S help, and with an assurance of victory which could have been given to him only by the LORD. He boldly met the defiance and scorn of the giant with these inspired words:
"Thou comest to me with a sword, and with a spear, and with a shield; but I come to thee in the
name of the LORD of hosts, the GOD of the armies of Is'ra-el, whom thou hast defied. This day
will the LORD deliver thee into mine hand; and I will smite thee, and take thine head from thee;
and I will give the carcass of the host of the Phi-lis'tines this day unto the fowls of the air, and to
the wild beasts of the earth; that all the earth may know that there is a GOD in Is'ra-el. And all this
assembly shall know that the LORD saveth not with the sword and spear, for the battle is the
LORD'S, and He will give you into our hands."
Da'vid then took one of the smooth stones from his shepherd's bag, placed it in his sling, and hurled it with deadly aim at the forehead of the giant. The stone pierced the skull of the giant, and Go-li'ath fell to the ground. Da'vid then rushed up to the fallen giant, drew Go-li'ath's sword, cut off the head of his enemy, and carried it back to the camps of Is'ra-el as a trophy of his victory.
This super-human feat of Da'vid was accomplished by his grasp upon the unseen forces of GOD. He fully believed that GOD who had delivered him out of the paw of the lion, and out of the paw of the bear, would also deliver him out of the hand of the giant Phi-lis'tine. His previous life had been a life of faith unseen, and hence he was ready for any emergency. It was to the LIVING GOD that he turnt for his pivotal victory.
The death of their champion struck terror into the hearts of the Phi-lis'tine armies, and they fled toward their own land, different groups taking three separate routes in their efforts to escape death at the hands of the pursuing Is'ra-el-ites. The armies of Is'ra-el slew thousands of the fleeing Phi-lis'tines, pursuing the remnants of the defeated armies even to the gates of their cities of Ek'ron and Gath. Da'vid meanwhile took the head of Go-li'ath to Je-ru'sa-lem, and later delivered it to Saul in person.
Friday, March 3, 2017
Story 81: A Shepherd Boy Slays The Phi-lis'tine Giant ll
The soldiers were delighted with Da'vid's bravery in proposing to meet the Phi-lis'tine giant, and hastened to report his courageous offer to Saul, who demanded that the young man be sent to him at once. When Da'vid stood before the king, his first words were, "Let no man's heart fail because of him; thy servant will go and fight with the Phi-lis'tine." The king tried to dissuade him from meeting the giant in single combat by telling him that he was too young and inexperienced to go against one who had been trained in war for so many years. But Da'vid persisted in his demand, telling Saul of the mighty deeds he had already performed with the help of GOD. The young man closed his appeal with these words: "The LORD that delivered me out of the paw of the lion, and out of the paw of the bear, He will deliver me out of the hand of this Phi-lis'tine."
The confidence of this young hero, joint as it was with his unfaltering faith in the help of GOD, overcame the hesitancy of Saul. He agreed to Da'vid's request to champion the cause of Is'ra-el before the giant Go-li'ath, but was unwilling to let him enter what seemed to be unequal combat without the benefit of the best armor and weapons which he could have.
Saul then brought out his own armor and sword, and asked Da'vid to use them in the battle soon to come. Da'vid felt however, that he would do better with weapons with which he was more familiar. After putting on the king's armor and taking his sword in hand, he decided that the sling which he had learnt to use with such telling force would serve him better. The man-made armor of an unbelieving and rejected king was only an encumbrance to a youth whose faith was approved by GOD. By using the sling he would not have to come into close grips with a man who was much larger and more powerful than he. As an expert with the sling, he could take sure aim and hurl a stone with the strength of GOD lending force to his arm.
On his way to the field of battle, Da'vid pickt up five smooth stones from the brook which ran through the valley between the two armies. Placing these stones in the shepherd's bag which he carried, and with his staff in hand, Da'vid marcht out between the armies of Phi-lis'ti-a and Is'ra-el to meet the giant warrior. The Is'ra-el-ites looked on with mingled feelings of amazement, hope, and prayer, while the hosts of the Phi-lis'tines gazed at the young man with scorn and ridicule.
The confidence of this young hero, joint as it was with his unfaltering faith in the help of GOD, overcame the hesitancy of Saul. He agreed to Da'vid's request to champion the cause of Is'ra-el before the giant Go-li'ath, but was unwilling to let him enter what seemed to be unequal combat without the benefit of the best armor and weapons which he could have.
Saul then brought out his own armor and sword, and asked Da'vid to use them in the battle soon to come. Da'vid felt however, that he would do better with weapons with which he was more familiar. After putting on the king's armor and taking his sword in hand, he decided that the sling which he had learnt to use with such telling force would serve him better. The man-made armor of an unbelieving and rejected king was only an encumbrance to a youth whose faith was approved by GOD. By using the sling he would not have to come into close grips with a man who was much larger and more powerful than he. As an expert with the sling, he could take sure aim and hurl a stone with the strength of GOD lending force to his arm.
On his way to the field of battle, Da'vid pickt up five smooth stones from the brook which ran through the valley between the two armies. Placing these stones in the shepherd's bag which he carried, and with his staff in hand, Da'vid marcht out between the armies of Phi-lis'ti-a and Is'ra-el to meet the giant warrior. The Is'ra-el-ites looked on with mingled feelings of amazement, hope, and prayer, while the hosts of the Phi-lis'tines gazed at the young man with scorn and ridicule.
Thursday, March 2, 2017
Story 81: A Shepherd Boy Slays The Phi-lis'tine Giant l
Some time after Da'vid was employed by Saul for occasional service at the court as musician and armor-bearer, and several years after the defeat of the Phi-lis'tines at Mich-mash, the warlike heathens decided upon another war against Is'ra-el. Their armies marched into a village of the hill country between the mountains of Ju'dah and the plains of the Med'i-ter-ra'ne-an, about eleven miles southwest of Je-ru'sa-lem and Beth'le-hem. Here they encamped for battle along a range of low hills facing a fertile plain called E'lah. The armies of Is'ra-el went out against them, camping on the range of hills along the opposite side of the valley.
In those days it often happened that when two opposing armies were in position for battle, but neither dared to attack, a champion from each side would meet in single combat. It was agreed that victory would belong to the army whose champion defeated his arrival in the single combat.
The champion of the Phi-lis'tines in this battle was a giant warrior named Go-li'ath. He was nearly nine feet tall, wore armor made of metal plates which overlapped like the scales of a fish, and weighed three hundred pounds, protected his head with a helmet of brass, and had the lower part of his legs covered with heavy metal guards. He carried a short spear thrown over his shoulders, and a sword five feet long which weighed twenty-five pounds.
Every day he marched out on the plain between the two armies and scornfully challenged the Is'ra-el-ites to send out a champion to fight a duel with him. For forty days he cast ridicule and contempt upon the armies of Is'ra-el as Saul's slaves, and taunted them for their cowardice in failing to send out a man to meet him in battle.
During all this time the king who had once led Is'ra-el in slaying forty thousand Phi-lis'tines in one day, sat cowering in weakness while a single Phi-lis'tine braggart held the armies of Is'ra-el in check. Why the difference? Because in the previous victory the noble prince Jon'a-than had been anointed by the Spirit of GOD, and Saul had taken advantage of the confusion caused by his daring exploit to gain a decisive triumph. At this time, however, Jon'a-than had been rejected by his ungrateful father, and the LORD had withdrawn from Saul. Courage had left the army because the LORD was no longer with their king.
Three of Jes'se's sons were among the soldiers encamped on the edge of the valley of E'lah and Da'vid often journeyed back and forth from the royal palace and his father's home, caring for the sheep when his services were not needed by the king. It is likely that he wished to join his brothers in the army opposing the Phi-lis'tines, and that he often spoke of his desire to aid in ridding the land of the cruel oppressors, but neither the king nor Da'vid's older brothers thought him old enough to be a soldier.
One day Jes'se sent Da'vid to the camp of the soldiers, just a few hours' walk from Beth'le-hem, to carry food to his brothers and to ask about their welfare. It so happened that he reached the camp just as the two armies were facing one another ready for battle. He left the provisions which he had brought with the keeper of the army supplies and rushed to the side of his brothers. While he was talking with them, the Phi-lis'tine champion came out on the field with his usual scornful challenge. The soldiers all fell back in fear, but Da'vid looked on with growing anger. Some of the men told him that this had been going on morning after morning for forty days, and that the king had offered a great reward for any man who would slay the giant.
Da'vid then declared that he was ashamed of the cowardly manner in which the Is'ra-el-ites permitted the heathen giant to terrify them, and said that the insult to Is'ra-el and the LIVING GOD of the nation must be wiped out. The remarks of his younger brother were bitterly resented by E-li'ab who said that Da'vid was neglecting his duties in caring for his father's sheep, and that he had no business even to visit the king's armies. It appears that E-li'ab remembered with envy the time when Sam'u-el had rejected him in favor of Da'vid for the sacred anointing. Da'vid showed both forbearance and reason in his reply, "Have I come without an errand? Is there not a need for someone to meet this defiance of our GOD?" Then he turnt to others and made similar remarks.
In those days it often happened that when two opposing armies were in position for battle, but neither dared to attack, a champion from each side would meet in single combat. It was agreed that victory would belong to the army whose champion defeated his arrival in the single combat.
The champion of the Phi-lis'tines in this battle was a giant warrior named Go-li'ath. He was nearly nine feet tall, wore armor made of metal plates which overlapped like the scales of a fish, and weighed three hundred pounds, protected his head with a helmet of brass, and had the lower part of his legs covered with heavy metal guards. He carried a short spear thrown over his shoulders, and a sword five feet long which weighed twenty-five pounds.
Every day he marched out on the plain between the two armies and scornfully challenged the Is'ra-el-ites to send out a champion to fight a duel with him. For forty days he cast ridicule and contempt upon the armies of Is'ra-el as Saul's slaves, and taunted them for their cowardice in failing to send out a man to meet him in battle.
During all this time the king who had once led Is'ra-el in slaying forty thousand Phi-lis'tines in one day, sat cowering in weakness while a single Phi-lis'tine braggart held the armies of Is'ra-el in check. Why the difference? Because in the previous victory the noble prince Jon'a-than had been anointed by the Spirit of GOD, and Saul had taken advantage of the confusion caused by his daring exploit to gain a decisive triumph. At this time, however, Jon'a-than had been rejected by his ungrateful father, and the LORD had withdrawn from Saul. Courage had left the army because the LORD was no longer with their king.
Three of Jes'se's sons were among the soldiers encamped on the edge of the valley of E'lah and Da'vid often journeyed back and forth from the royal palace and his father's home, caring for the sheep when his services were not needed by the king. It is likely that he wished to join his brothers in the army opposing the Phi-lis'tines, and that he often spoke of his desire to aid in ridding the land of the cruel oppressors, but neither the king nor Da'vid's older brothers thought him old enough to be a soldier.
One day Jes'se sent Da'vid to the camp of the soldiers, just a few hours' walk from Beth'le-hem, to carry food to his brothers and to ask about their welfare. It so happened that he reached the camp just as the two armies were facing one another ready for battle. He left the provisions which he had brought with the keeper of the army supplies and rushed to the side of his brothers. While he was talking with them, the Phi-lis'tine champion came out on the field with his usual scornful challenge. The soldiers all fell back in fear, but Da'vid looked on with growing anger. Some of the men told him that this had been going on morning after morning for forty days, and that the king had offered a great reward for any man who would slay the giant.
Da'vid then declared that he was ashamed of the cowardly manner in which the Is'ra-el-ites permitted the heathen giant to terrify them, and said that the insult to Is'ra-el and the LIVING GOD of the nation must be wiped out. The remarks of his younger brother were bitterly resented by E-li'ab who said that Da'vid was neglecting his duties in caring for his father's sheep, and that he had no business even to visit the king's armies. It appears that E-li'ab remembered with envy the time when Sam'u-el had rejected him in favor of Da'vid for the sacred anointing. Da'vid showed both forbearance and reason in his reply, "Have I come without an errand? Is there not a need for someone to meet this defiance of our GOD?" Then he turnt to others and made similar remarks.
Wednesday, March 1, 2017
Story 80: A Shepherd Boy Chosen King lll
One of the king's servants knew of Da'vid's talent as a musician, of his handsome appearance, gentle disposition, and courageous spirit. He therefore suggested that the young man be engaged as musician to the king, and Saul sent a messenger to Jes'se with the request that Da'vid be sent to him at once.
By a strange providence the young man who had been chosen of GOD to be Saul's successor was brought to the court at the king's own request. As he modestly stood before the king with his harp in hand and began to play, the magic touch of his fingers on the strings produced an effect which immediately soothed the troubled spirit of Saul. As the sweet sounds of music fell upon Saul's ears, and the unspoken prayers of Dav'id's heart reached the ears of GOD, the king's heart went out to this young nobleman with great affection. Thus was the plan of GOD and the liberty of man combined for the preparation of Da'vid to become Is'ra-el's greatest king: For Da'vid in his devotion to his harp had no thought of thereby rising to royal favor; and the servant who suggested his name knew not that he had been chosen as Saul's successor.
Da'vid was engaged as court musician and personal armor-bearer for the king, and they became friends fast. We do not know just how long the friendship lasted, but shall find that within a few years Saul became intensely jealous of Da'vid's growing popularity and turnt against him with murderous hatred.
Da'vid continued to live at his father's home in Beth'le-hem, and much of his time was spent in caring for his father's sheep. Under the anointing power of GOD'S Spirit he continued to grow in strength and bravery. In protecting the sheep from ravenous beasts of that land he relied upon the ancient weapon known as a sling. By constant practice he soon became expert with the sling, and was able to hurl the small stones exactly where he wished them to go. His strength was also developed until he was able to perform some of the mighty deeds of Sam'son, such as killing bears and lions with his own hands. GOD was preparing him for a miraculous victory over the Phi-lis'tines, and we shall soon learn about it.
By a strange providence the young man who had been chosen of GOD to be Saul's successor was brought to the court at the king's own request. As he modestly stood before the king with his harp in hand and began to play, the magic touch of his fingers on the strings produced an effect which immediately soothed the troubled spirit of Saul. As the sweet sounds of music fell upon Saul's ears, and the unspoken prayers of Dav'id's heart reached the ears of GOD, the king's heart went out to this young nobleman with great affection. Thus was the plan of GOD and the liberty of man combined for the preparation of Da'vid to become Is'ra-el's greatest king: For Da'vid in his devotion to his harp had no thought of thereby rising to royal favor; and the servant who suggested his name knew not that he had been chosen as Saul's successor.
Da'vid was engaged as court musician and personal armor-bearer for the king, and they became friends fast. We do not know just how long the friendship lasted, but shall find that within a few years Saul became intensely jealous of Da'vid's growing popularity and turnt against him with murderous hatred.
Da'vid continued to live at his father's home in Beth'le-hem, and much of his time was spent in caring for his father's sheep. Under the anointing power of GOD'S Spirit he continued to grow in strength and bravery. In protecting the sheep from ravenous beasts of that land he relied upon the ancient weapon known as a sling. By constant practice he soon became expert with the sling, and was able to hurl the small stones exactly where he wished them to go. His strength was also developed until he was able to perform some of the mighty deeds of Sam'son, such as killing bears and lions with his own hands. GOD was preparing him for a miraculous victory over the Phi-lis'tines, and we shall soon learn about it.
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