The Sweet Psalmist of Israel1Samuel 16:14-23

A Problem: the Spirit of the Lord leaves Saul (v.14)

B The servants see the problem, offer a solution (vv.15-16)

C Saul commands his servants to provide a man (v.17)

X David’s resume is put forward (v.18)

C Saul sends servants to Jesse (vv.19-20)

B Saul is pleased with the solution (vv.21-22)

A Problem solved: all is well for now (v.23)

1. The Problem – v.14

“Now the Spirit of the Lord departed from Saul, andan evil spirit from the Lord tormented him.”

2. The Solution – vv.15-17

Saul’s servants then said to him, “Behold now, an evil

spirit from God is terrorizing you. Let our lord now command your servants who are before you. Let them seek a man who is a skilful player on the harp; and it shall come about when the evil spirit from God is on you, that he shall play the harp with his hand, and you will be well.” So Saul said to his servants, “Provide for me now a man who can playwell and bring him to me.”

3. David’s resume – v.18Then one of the young men said, “Behold, I haveseen a son of Jesse the Bethlehemite who is a skilful musician,

a mighty man of valour, a warrior, one prudent in speech, and a handsome man;and the LORD is with him.”

4. Saul sends servants –vv.19-20So Saul sent messengers to Jesse and said, “Send me your son David who is with the flock.” Jesse took a donkey loaded with bread and a jug of wine and a young goat, and sent them to Saul by David his son.

5. Saul pleased – vv.21-22Then David came to Saul and attended him;and Saul loved him greatly, and he became his armour bearer. Saul sent to Jesse, saying, “Let David now stand before me, for he has found favour in my sight.”

6. Problem solved – v.23So it came about whenever the evil spirit from God came to Saul, David would take the harp and play it with his hand; and Saul would be refreshed and be well, and the evil spirit would depart from him.

Don’t seek to build your own stage

Don’t seek to build your own stageFocus on character

Don’t seek to build your own stageFocus on characterDon’t run away from confrontation

Don’t seek to build your own stageFocus on characterDon’t run away from confrontationChoose your weapons wisely

Make sure that you know God personally.