Chapter 8: The Hunted

David lived in the wilderness - hiding in caves, gathering a band of men who followed him, always moving. Saul pursued him relentlessly.

One day, Saul took three thousand soldiers to the wilderness of En Gedi. Near the sheepfolds along the road, there was a cave. Saul went inside alone - not knowing that David and his men were hidden in the back of that very cave.

David's men whispered urgently.

"This is the day! The Lord has delivered your enemy into your hands."

David crept forward in the shadows. He drew his blade - but instead of striking Saul, he quietly cut off a corner of the king's robe.

Immediately, his heart troubled him.

DAVID“The Lord forbid that I should raise my hand against him. He is the Lord's anointed.”— 1 Samuel 24:6

He held his men back. They did not touch Saul.

When Saul left the cave, David stepped outside and called after him.

DAVID“My lord the king!”

Saul turned. David bowed low, then held up the piece of robe for Saul to see. He told the king that the Lord had delivered him into his hand that very day - yet he had spared him. The torn robe was proof: David could have harmed him, but he did not.

DAVID“There is no evil in my heart toward you - yet you hunt me.”

Saul wept.

SAUL“You are more righteous than I. I know now that you will surely be king.”

But David did not return with Saul. He and his men went back to their stronghold - and the chase continued.