1 Samuel 16:20: “So Jesse took a donkey loaded with bread, a skin of wine, and a young goat and sent them with his son David to Saul.”
Extended Explanation
In this verse, we see Jesse, David’s father, responding to King Saul’s request for David to come to his court. Jesse prepares a gift for Saul, loading a donkey with bread, wine, and a young goat, which were customary offerings when approaching someone in authority, especially a king. These gifts reflect respect and honor toward Saul, acknowledging his position as the king even though David had already been anointed as the future king of Israel.
David’s role in this verse is significant. Though he has been anointed by Samuel to be the next king, he humbly accepts the task of delivering supplies and gifts to Saul, who is still the reigning king. This act of obedience and humility is a key theme in David’s early life, showing his willingness to serve faithfully, even in small ways. David does not seek to assert himself or claim his kingship prematurely. Instead, he enters Saul’s service with a servant’s heart, trusting in God’s timing.
Historical Context
At this time in Israel’s history, Saul had been rejected by God as king, but he still held the throne. David, meanwhile, had been anointed by Samuel as Saul’s successor, though this was not yet publicly known. Saul was struggling with torment due to the departure of God’s Spirit from him, and his attendants suggested finding a skilled musician to help ease his distress. David, who was known for his musical abilities, was called to serve Saul in this way.
The gift of bread, wine, and a goat reflects ancient customs of honoring authority with offerings. It also shows that Jesse, David’s father, was a man of respect and followed the proper protocol in approaching the king. David’s willingness to deliver these gifts shows his humility and readiness to serve, even though he was destined for much greater things.
Theological Implications
Theologically, this verse highlights the importance of humility and obedience in the life of a believer. David, though anointed to be the future king, did not take matters into his own hands. Instead, he trusted in God’s timing and remained faithful in small acts of service. This demonstrates a key biblical principle: God often prepares His people for greater responsibilities by calling them to be faithful in seemingly small and humble tasks.
This verse also illustrates the importance of honoring those in authority, even when we know their position may not last. David’s respectful approach to Saul shows his commitment to serving God’s will, rather than pushing his own agenda.
Literary Analysis
From a literary perspective, this verse serves as a transition point, where David moves from being a shepherd in his father’s fields to serving in the king’s court. The imagery of the donkey carrying gifts symbolizes the humility with which David approaches this new chapter in his life. The act of sending gifts with David is both practical and symbolic, representing the submission and honor required when entering the service of a king.
The mention of bread, wine, and a goat also emphasizes the theme of hospitality and respect. These items were staples in the ancient Near East, often associated with sustenance and sacrifice. Their inclusion in this verse highlights the seriousness of Jesse’s gesture toward Saul.
Biblical Cross-References
One relevant cross-reference is 1 Samuel 17:17-18, where Jesse again sends David with supplies—this time to his brothers on the battlefield. This act of obedience in delivering food mirrors the humility shown in this verse, and it precedes David’s famous encounter with Goliath.
Another cross-reference is Philippians 2:3-4, where Paul encourages believers to act in humility and consider others better than themselves. David’s willingness to serve Saul, despite knowing his future role as king, exemplifies this Christlike humility.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, this verse serves as a reminder of the importance of humility and faithful service. Like David, believers may be called to serve in small, unnoticed ways before stepping into larger roles. This verse encourages Christians to trust in God’s timing and to serve faithfully, no matter the task.
It also speaks to the importance of honoring those in authority, even when their leadership is flawed. David’s respect for Saul shows that we are called to honor and serve others, trusting that God is in control of the future.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
This verse reflects God’s loving care in how He prepares David for his future role as king. Though David is called to serve in a humble way, God is using this season to shape and mold him into the leader he will become. God’s love is evident in the way He orchestrates events, ensuring that David is in the right place at the right time.
God’s love is also shown in the way He honors faithfulness. David’s obedience to his father and his willingness to serve Saul demonstrate a heart that is aligned with God’s purposes. God’s love is not just about the grand moments of life, but also about the everyday acts of faithfulness and humility that prepare us for greater things.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
David’s journey from humble servant to king parallels Jesus’ life and ministry. Like David, Jesus came in humility, serving others even though He was the rightful King. Philippians 2:5-8 describes how Jesus, though equal with God, took on the nature of a servant and humbled Himself, even to the point of death on the cross. David’s willingness to serve Saul reflects the same attitude of humility and obedience that Jesus embodied.
Furthermore, the offering of bread and wine in this verse foreshadows the bread and wine of the Last Supper, where Jesus symbolized His body and blood as the ultimate sacrifice for humanity. Just as David brought gifts to Saul in humility, Jesus offered Himself as the perfect gift for the salvation of the world.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How can David’s humility in serving Saul, despite his future calling, challenge you to serve faithfully in the small tasks God has given you?
- In what ways are you honoring those in authority in your life, even when their leadership is imperfect or temporary?
- How does David’s faithfulness and willingness to serve point to the example of Jesus, and how can you follow that example in your daily life?