1 Samuel 26:16 · KJV

"This thing is not good that thou hast done. As the LORD liveth, ye are worthy to die, because ye have not kept your master, the LORD'S anointed. And now see where the king's spear is, and the cruse of water that was at his bolster."

King James Version

Passage Context

¹⁴And David cried to the people, and to Abner the son of Ner, saying, Answerest thou not, Abner? Then Abner answered and said, Who art thou that criest to the king?

¹⁵And David said to Abner, Art not thou a valiant man? and who is like to thee in Israel? wherefore then hast thou not kept thy lord the king? for there came one of the people in to destroy the king thy lord.

¹⁶This thing is not good that thou hast done. As the LORD liveth, ye are worthy to die, because ye have not kept your master, the LORD'S anointed. And now see where the king's spear is, and the cruse of water that was at his bolster.

¹⁷And Saul knew David's voice, and said, Is this thy voice, my son David? And David said, It is my voice, my lord, O king.

¹⁸And he said, Wherefore doth my lord thus pursue after his servant? for what have I done? or what evil is in mine hand?

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Reflection Questions

How do you ensure you honor those in authority?

What does loyalty mean to you in your relationships?

When have you had to stand up for what is right?

Life Application

leadership

Think about how you can demonstrate loyalty and integrity in your leadership roles.

responsibility

Reflect on the responsibilities you carry in your relationships.

People in This Verse

DavidBoth

The second king of Israel, known for his leadership, poetry, and a heart for God. He is a central figure in both Jewish and Christian traditions.

First appearance: 1 Samuel 16:1

SaulOT

Saul was the first king of Israel, chosen by God but later rejected for disobedience. His life serves as a cautionary tale about pride and the consequences of turning away from God.

First appearance: 1 Samuel 9:1

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