Reader’s Guide: “The Word for Today” Saturday, November 3, 2012 Read – 1 Samuel 23 & 24 These chapters continue the story. The contours of the conflict are now quite clear. Saul is determined to kill David whom he believes is a rival for his kingdom. David flees but will not take action against Saul. The story of Saul entering the cave where David and his men are hiding adds great suspense to the story. Will David kill Saul? Has God delivered Saul into David’s hand as his men believe? David chooses to let Saul live because Saul is “God’s anointed” one – God will determine Saul’s fate. At this point the story holds out the possibility that David and Saul will be reconciled. Saul’s response seems to indicate that the conflict will now be resolved. But it is not. One might wonder if God was also hoping for a better response on Saul’s part. Once again the story leads us to understand that human choices and actions make a difference for humans and for God.