Pray For the Peace of Jerusalem
I remember a foolish bumper-sticker that, unfortunately, was on the car immediately in front on mine, in heavy traffic, with no means of passing. It said this:
You're not Paranoid.
Everybody IS out to get you!
Well, hardy-har-har. Very funny. But it does seem to describe the complex web of jealousy and deceit that erupted around David, when all he did was display some valor and loyalty.First, he is minding his own business tending his father's sheep. Then, suddenly, Samuel, the Prophet of Israel, comes to his father's home and pours olive oil on his head. This act makes him the very enemy of King Saul, who REALLY is paranoid. He is inducted into service playing his harp for Saul, and nearly loses his life from the crazy old king throwing a spear at him. (I have had some tough gigs, but never THAT bad!)
Then he brings bread and cheese to his brothers on the battlefield and is accused of spying on them. After slaying a giant that nobody else could face, he becomes the subject of a hit song that makes him out to be more heroic that the king, thus incurring Saul's wrath yet again.
Even so, he continues in his service to the king, has an abiding friendship with the king's son Jonathan, and ends up in an arranged marriage with one of the king's daughters.
After several close calls, David knows he must flee the presence of Saul.
Saul was a perfect example of a paranoid personality.
David, on the other hand, was quite sane, and KNEW that Saul had the entire state at his disposal to kill him.
So here was David, the king's son-in-law, servant, son's best friend, music therapist, and loyal champion, fleeing the king all because of JEALOUSY.
Come and Pray For the Peace of Jerusalem, For Our FRiends in Need, For Persecuted Believers, and For Our Beloved Nation.
8 Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.(Philippians 4:8 NIV)
God Bless America!
Blessings To All Who Visit This Garden of Prayer.
This Symbol Represents Christians in The Middle East, who desperately need our Prayers.
Hallelujah and Amen
ML/LTOS