In the course of the foregoing chapter we left David in triumph; now in this chapter we have, I. The improvement of his triumphs; he soon became, 1. Saul’s constant attendant, 1 Sam. 18:2. 2. Jonathan’s covenant friend, 1 Sam. 18:1 1 Sam. 18:3 1 Sam. 18:4. 3. The darling of his country, 1 Sam.

David was anointed to the crown to take it out of Saul’s hand, and over Jonathan’s head, and yet here we find, I. That Saul, who was now in possession of the crown, reposed a confidence in him, God so ordering it, that he might by his preferment at court be prepared for future service.

Now begin David’s troubles, and they not only tread on the heels of his triumphs, but take rise from them, such is the vanity of that in this world which seems greatest. I. He was too much magnified by the common people.

Saul had now, in effect, proclaimed war with David. He began in open hostility when he threw the javelin at him. Now we are here told how his enmity proceeded, and how David received the attacks of it. I. See how Saul expressed his malice against David. 1. He was afraid of him, 1 Sam. 18:12.