1 Kingdoms (1 Samuel) 26:7Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

When you observe someone in distress, extend assistance to them; releasing yourself from selfishness will eliminate anger. David had the opportunity to harm Saul but chose not to retaliate; instead, he showed mercy even when he had his adversary at his mercy, thus overcoming evil with kindness.

If Saul were to explain the reason for the conflict, he would undoubtedly cite David's blessings as a key factor. During the time of his persecution, when he was vulnerable and at the mercy of his adversaries, it was once again a just man who intervened and refrained from harming him.

Truth is not asserted through the use of swords and arrows, nor through military might, but rather through gentle persuasion and wise counsel. What kind of persuasion exists in the shadow of a king's fear? And what wisdom can be offered when exile or death loom over those who falter? Consider King David; when he found himself with an adversary at his mercy and his soldiers eager to execute justice upon that foe, he did not resort to force. Instead, as the Scriptures indicate, he reasoned with his men, dissuading them from rising against Saul and shedding blood (See 1 Samuel 26:9-11).

David exemplified remarkable and genuinely Christian endurance in his expectation of the incarnation of Christ our Lord. Frequently, his adversary King Saul, who harbored animosity toward him and sought to kill him, found himself completely at David’s mercy. Despite this, when the chance arose to end Saul's life, David chose to show mercy rather than take vengeance on his foe. In fact, following Saul's death, David even sought justice for those who had murdered him. Many prophets have fallen victim to death, and countless martyrs have been honored with glorious ends in the sight of the Lord. Each of these faithful souls has received heavenly crowns due to their steadfastness; for the martyr’s crown is bestowed upon those who endure suffering and tribulation, which are accompanied by the profound gift of patience that precedes it.