She is "of good sense and beautiful in looks," while he is "hard and evil in his deeds" (v. 3). That is why a man leaves his father and mother and is united to his wife, and they become one flesh (Genesis 2:24). David faced a number of personal attacks from King Saul but escaped destroyed because one allowed affection to be replaced by bitterness. There seems to be only one fault that was responsible for the But no man (or woman) could ever fully represent the greatness and purity and mystery of the God who created the heavens and the earth. It seems Paltiel was the one who clearly loved her, which was something we were never sure about with David. Its that cover-up that becomes a breaking point in Davids life. I was overwhelmed! What Does It Mean? It is important to note that the customs of that day were different, and Michal didnt have much choice in who she married, but you do. Lynne is passionate about mobilising women to impact the Kingdom and the local community. David has killed Goliath, thats what everyone is talking about; this young, good-looking guy. We dont know, but we do her husband Paltiel deeply loved her and was devastated when she was taken from him. A notable exception is Michal's protest against David's actions after Saul's death, which she deems vulgar. This great love story offers a sad conclusion. 2. He came in expecting to find a joyous feast, These two scenes, the only ones in which Michal plays an active role, are framed by scenes in which Michal is acted upon:1 Samuel 19,where she actively takes Davids part against her father Saul, is framed by scenes in which she is acted upon by her father(1 Sam 18:2029and 25:44); and Samuel 6, where she takes the part of her fathers house against her husband, David, is framed by scenes in which she is acted upon by her husband(2 Sam 3:13and 21:89). The story up to this point was nothing short of tragic. After ten long years This wasnt about Davids worship. a3&"<>iL d_iPp\YUj[) _z#=K.eW=C[x\$?qM7%+@i;icNh~ 6~ |6z^%_ d\/ :W {R>iWSL 0\!p;M)n.=Zg0>BAp#3 bHA6cHX;Bg`*nUv#mg)` Even though he is now very much a stranger, David breaks up Michals marriage. Valley Forge, PA: 1993. In fact, he brings double. II Sam 6:16 As the ark of the Lord was entering the City of David, Michal daughter of Saul watched from a window. Sheffield: Sheffield Phoenix Press, 2015. is absent? Such Proverbs 3:5-6 says, "Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. in the Bible. Michal saves Davids life by orchestrating his escape through the window when Sauls envoys come for him(1 Samuel 19). Michal is identified as Sauls daughter, for she speaks as the representative of her fathers house, and, by doing so, forfeits her role in the house of King David. In his presence we can forget the rejection, the abandonment, the lies, the injustice, the treacherous acts of others. David, on the other hand, at this time, had 6 other wives. Proverbs 12:18 Reckless words pierce like a sword But the tongue of the wise brings healing, Proverbs 18:21 The tongue has the power of life and deathAnd those who love it will eat its fruit. Here was her husband, the king no less, divesting himself of his royal robes and wholeheartedly celebrating God. it applies to Christians. Life lessons from Michal Various Scriptures "ut as the Ark of the Lord entered the ity of David, Michal, the daughter of Saul, looked down from her window. began a loving marriage relationship. Really great Bible teachers/scholars that I love hearing converse about the Word. This book will teach you how to put the pieces together so you can live a victorious Christian life and finally become the man or woman of God that you truly desire to be. Read the latest from JWA from your inbox. Much of Micahs book revolves around two significant predictions: one of judgment on Israel and Judah (Micah 1:13:12), the other of the restoration of Gods people in the millennial kingdom (4:15:15). When she saw King David leaping and dancing before and dancing before the Lord, she was filled with contempt for him." -2 Samuel 6:16 <> I wonder was she aware, did she believe at this time that David would be the next King? Seeman, Don. It is interesting to see the change that has taken place in Michal. with the common people. This shows that our value judgments are closely Sa 2:12ff). Clarence L. Haynes Jr. is a speaker, Bible teacher, and co-founder of The Bible Study Club. She protected him. This just about sums up Michals life. Hiding from the presence of God, her life produced no fruit. Then the Philistines attacked, and the Lord gave David the victory over themnot once, but twice (5:17-25). c. The Marital Reunion Ultimately: And yet, as also true in our lives, the consequences of his sin followed him the rest of his life. I mentioned earlier that Michal was his wife, then she wasnt and then she was again. Saul hoped that David would die in the process of obtaining these foreskins, which could mean he had no real intention of giving his daughter to David in marriage. Download it once and read it on your Kindle device, PC, phones or tablets. "Michal and Merab." Michal is Saul's daughter that married David, and Jonathan is his son. Sheffield: Sheffield Academic Press, 2000. What a fascinating story, filled with intrigue and suspense. Clearly, there was no discussion or amicable resolution possible. Prooftexts24, no. The podcast is also a really great way to help me learn and develop an understanding of the Bible the way it was meant to be. I know that seems confusing, but I will make it clear shortly. had enjoyed (2 Sa 3:1). In this sequence, God reminds the people of His good works on their behalf, how He cared for them while they cared only for themselves. each one (18:10). What Every Christian Should Know about the Protestant Reformation. In Dangerous Sisters of the Hebrew Bible, 37-52. The book of Micah provides one of the most significant prophecies of Jesus Christs birth in all the Old Testament, pointing some seven hundred years before Christs birth to His birthplace of Bethlehem and to His eternal nature (Micah 5:2). Store; Bibles; Deals; More; As low as $2.92/mo. Let me read to you some different versions of this passage. His first plan is to offer David his oldest daughter in marriage. Remember This will give you all the evidence you need to know if what they say is really true. This is a difficult switch for many people to make, but it is a necessary switch. Michal, daughter of Saul, married David. If someone says they love you, dont just listen to what they say, watch what they do. affection is being replaced by unforgiveness, self-centeredness, pride, temper. Have an update or correction? Consider the various lessons we can learn from Jonathan's life . Before we leave this story, to get some insight into Davids thinking, we need to look at Psalm 59. sharp-tongues, sarcasm, resentment, and an intolerance for others who are All the years apart and she does not know how many times God saved David. Another reason is that we can learn life lessons from them. to bless his home (6:20). People mistreat us so we turn our backs on Christ. With Gods strength, he defeats the enemy and his life as a soldier, a warrior begins. For her tragic story is not unlike many of our own. She is our first influential woman that we will study. brought her marriage to a terrible tragedy. most unpleasant lesson. But rather than leave Gods people with the fear and sting of judgment, the book of Micah concludes with the prophets call Where do you see yourself loving others in such a way that affects them, has influence in their lives? News reached Saul is initially impressed with Davids skill so he says David you are going into the army soldier! Do not let mans misdeeds prevent you from seeing Gods goodness. How about you? Her bitterness became her barrenness: 2 Samuel 6:23 says, And Michal the daughter of Saul had no child to the day of her death. I believe Gods word includes this information to show us the sad end of a bitter heart. Q. God has created us, as women, all of us, with purpose and the ability to affect our world for good or bad. By referring to Michal as the daughter of Saul (v. 16) the writer linked her attitude with her fathers. I had an annual physical recently. If you are a parent, it is critical that you encourage your child to love their spouse and make that their first allegiance. But God used him and his words to make me look at my words. The Pursuit of Victory: How To Conquer Your Greatest Challenges and Win In Your Christian Life. His calm Although they are so large and are driven by strong winds, they are steered by a very small rudder wherever the pilot wants to go. In hope that David would be killed in the act, Saul offered his daughter Michal to David for the dowry of 100 killed . but is necessary theologically, for Gods rejection of Saul precluded a descendant of his ever ruling over Israel. Michals love story highlights the all too familiar story of what gradually yield convictions for what is called peace. They only find to another man as his wife (2 Sa 3:13-16). Lessons from Jochebed. Here's a list of biblical womensome familiar, some notwhich can provide invaluable learning. I will make an agreement with you. The Bitter Michal. How would you have felt? Copyright 1999 by John Two young lovers, multiple conflicts, intrigue, emotional peaks and valleys, danger, etc., all are a part of this narrative. But by these slave girls you spoke of, I will be held in honor.. Overnight he becomes a superhero and is rewarded by Saul who gives his daughter Michal to David to become his wife. but he walked straight into a hornets nest. The first words to greet Each student of Gods Holy Book should take a serious look at Then there would be no criticism. 1 (2004): 1-50. 10 Dr. Thomas Constable, Constables Notes, NET Bible Study Suite www.NetBible.org. Cant you imagine how happy she is? So, what is the lesson we can learn from Michal in this aspect of her life? He is called a man after Gods own heart. Our own goodness and wisdom cannot bring us to salvation; only the sacrifice of Jesus Christ can restore our broken relationship with God. I grew up in a Christian home where I felt loved and would always be taken care of, but at times the climate was critical and judgmental of others. 16 Her husband, however, went with her, weeping behind her all the way to Bahurim. Ephesians 2:10 says we have been uniquely re-created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us. In Judah at this time, good kings and evil kings alternated with each other, a pattern seen in the reigns of Jotham (good, 2 Kings 15:3234); Ahaz (evil, 2 Kings 16:14); and Hezekiah (good, 2 Kings 18:17). David had It is only in worship that we can forget ourselves and focus on our Saviour. Tissot Michal Watching David from a Window,18961902, byJames Tissot. Davids behaviour certainly doesnt imply he was worthy. 4. But Saul had given his daughter Michal, Davids wife, to Paltiel son of Laish, who was from Gallim (1 Samuel 25:44). 9. Many who begin marriage with a strong faith and love for God 7 Larry R. Helyer, Hero and Heroine Narratives in the Old Testament (Southern Baptist Journal of Theology, Vol. Why was she so upset over his clothes? While David was playing the lyre, 10 Saul tried to pin him to the wall with his spear, but David eluded him as Saul drove the spear into the wall. The first story is when she falls in love with David, marries him and protects his life from her father Saul. Have we loved well those that God has put in our lives? falling apart today. After he flees Sauls court, David has two secret meetings with Jonathan, but none with Michal. But Michal the daughter of Saul came out to meet David. Before he could get the blessing out, she vehemently scolded him. There is no clear reason why she despised him, so I would like to offer a possibility. Not once but several times. Whether you are married or thinking about getting married, you should do everything you can to make sure your spouse knows that you truly love them. If there is only one lesson we can learn from Michal in the Bible, it is that true love is demonstrated by your actions. @egoYlR3amU,rz- `9FV.\e_ESnbeODTU4%!%y'cv\d2dlRNIg[U'O]r$$t2t2ONag!x]O3 Michal is often regarded as the shrew who did not approve of Davids exuberant worship. These had seemed so small and insignificant. She was then used by her husband, as a means of escape from the clutches of the murderous Saul. One of the most important things that must be done in marriage is that a spouse must realign their allegiance. When we focus on God and Gods glory, there is very little room for anything else. But Michal, Davids wife, warned him, If you dont run for your life tonight, tomorrow youll be killed. So Michal let David down through a window, and he fled and escaped. Michal raised her sisters children. The scriptures tell us she loves David. She seems to be more concerned that he wasnt acting like a King; he wasnt acting like her father. a) She became David's wife (1SA 18:27). When Saul realized that the Lord was with David and that his daughter Michal loved David, Saul became still more afraid of him, and he remained his enemy the rest of his days (1 Samuel 18:28-29). The festive day was the happiest in Davids life. a. And theyre remarkably influential. David is a fugitive, running for his life, until Saul is killed in battle which results in a split Nation in crisis. return of Michal to him (2 Sa 3:13). I wonder if she was crying with him? Entrust your hurting heart to Christ alone. While David flees, she gains him time by putting teraphim (statues representing household gods) on the bed, disguised to look like a person, and claiming that David is sick. Saul soon uses David for target practice.6 Given to great mood swings, Saul would get fearful and mad. We will always fall short. Not only are these evident in marriages, but they are evident It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison.9 With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse human beings, who have been made in Gods likeness. Dont just receive love, make sure you give it back demonstrated by what you say and do. Its at the end of his life that we meet the fourth woman, Abishag. When bitterness replaces affection there will be definite consequences bitterness was allowed to rule. This is critical to any marriage if it is going to be successful. There are many different ways to display this, which is a topic for another article, but I think the lesson we can learn from Michal shows us if this is not done, then love can dissipate over time. When She Cant See The Loving Hand of God. Listen to Chuck Swindolls overview of Micah in his audio message from the Classic series Gods Masterwork. I will give her to you for a wife. You can read 1 Samuel 18 to fill in the gaps. L. Kachelman, Jr. may be reproducted for non-commercial purposes at no She is quoted as an example of what you should not be as a worshipper. As she grew older, He was given to fits of rage and remorse. The setting begins in the halls of royalty goes to the Lockyer's All the Women of the Bible - Michal . Scriptures tell us that Saul down deep understands this conflict he has with David is all about the Kingdom. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make straight your paths.". In this video Bible study from the St. Paul Center, discover why the liturgy is a major theme that runs through the entire Bible, from Genesis to the Book of Revelation. Photo credit: Getty Images/ProstockStudio. This The reunion officially took place at Hebron. As the ark of the Lord was entering the City of David, Michal daughter of Saul watched from a window. "Michal: Bible." Truth: Our words have the power to help or harm. When David fled from Sauls ambush, Michal was taken and given Hurtful? Meyers, Carol, General Editor. took the place of affection. Either way she is a vital part of Davids story; she is an important influence in his life. Standing at her window, looking down at David being undignified, Michal had every reason to be bitter. Michal had reckless words to David; words that pierced him like a sword. After the first attempt failed, David tries again and this time the ark is successfully brought to his city. We are told in Hebrews 11:23 that Moses was hidden by his parents because they saw he was a beautiful child. For those times, you and I have forgiveness. It's what he does. What I interpreted that to mean for me was being good really meant you should be perfect. However, it is the actions of Paltiel that truly demonstrated his love for Michal. Every woman there, whether speakers, attenders, or those serving; all of them, just like you and me, are women of influence. He exposed himself to the girls along the street like a common pervert! (Living Bible). Salem Media Group. But there is more to the narrative that culminates in Michals rejection of David. 6 The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body. In a marital relationship, it is important to not only give love, but you want to know you are loved back as well. He proves himself worthy of her hand by paying a dowry of 100 Philistine foreskins. Not so fast. Teen shepherd boy defeats giant and wins hand of Princess Michal, daughter of King Saul. love were fondly treasured in his mind. have been possible but love was not enthroned in its rightful place and way they reacted to Sauls persecution (19:11-17). The Women of the Bible Speak: The Wisdom of 16 Women and Their Lessons for Today - Kindle edition by Bream, Shannon. such homes there is the added sorrow of knowing that two people have pledged Therefore Michal the daughter of Saul had no child unto the day of her death. When she started in on her tirade, David missed an opportunity to introduce Michal to the wonder of being a child of the most high God. The reunion of David and Michal occurred after King Sauls death. David was on the run from Saul and while he was on the run here is what happened to Michal. Gd dispatched the prophet Samuel to Jesse 's house to anoint one of his sons future king of Israel. c. A lack of understanding, resentment, and ultimate alienation I want that for my life, dont you? Or perhaps it was a strategic political move. Michals singular failing was that she failed to honor God in Look at the verse above and compare that to the way Michal is mentioned in the verse below. Abruptly she stopped and apologized saying Im trying to leave my family problems at home, but thats hard. Yes, it is hard. MICHAL. He could turn from the rational to the irrational quickly and there were no ways to gauge what would set him off. Think parade, think big parade, think of Macys Thanksgiving Parade. Saul seized upon this This is what God intended in marriage when you go all the way back to Genesis. Thus, in the end, this is no fairytale romance. Bitterness corrupts how you see others. d. The Marital Differences Now she was one of many wives. Ish-bosheth has a falling out with his army general Abner after which Abner then switches sides, offering his allegiance and his army to join with David. Trans women are women. He has also just released his new book The Pursuit of Victory: How To Conquer Your Greatest Challenges and Win In Your Christian Life. 21 I will give her to him, he thought, so that she may be a snare to him and so that the hand of the Philistines may be against him. So, Saul said to David, Now you have a second opportunity to become my son-in-law.. She answered not so good. Surprised, I asked her why? Without this knowledge, Michal was never going to understand the significance of the Ark or the momentous celebration it inspired. 1SA 18:17 "Saul said to David, 'Here is my older daughter Merab. For eight to ten years the lovers a marriage becomes when love is absent. Hope Bolinger Author 2020 12 Oct This wasnt about Davids worship. All would do well to remember this story and how Copyright 2023, Bible Study Tools. Davids greatness shines in both his ability to take responsibility for his actions and the humility of his admission and the repentance that follows. The Ark was a symbol of Gods law; a reminder of his provision; a place to know Gods will; a token of Gods holiness; the place of atonement; and a powerful reflection of the very presence of God. David suffered loss. But I demand one thing of you: Do not come into my presence unless you bring Michal daughter of Saul when you come to see me. Then David sent messengers to Ish-Bosheth son of Saul, demanding, Give me my wife Michal, whom I betrothed to myself for the price of a hundred Philistine foreskins (2 Samuel 3:13-14). David never went after Michal like Paltiel did and maybe that is why she began to despise him. Michal serves as a warning against fixating on our suffering. And we know that God is perfect as was the only perfect being to walk the earth: Jesus. Evidently Do not let someones bad behaviour prevent you from your own worship experience. Proud member Many Christians have been de-spiritualized by this action. Save 30%! This little rescue, saved the life of the future King of all Israel. ASK What does affection do for a marriage? humility and pious enthusiasm as he joined with Israel to celebrate (2 There are parallels between this scene, in which Michal deceives her father, and Rachels theft of the family teraphim and deception of her father, Laban(Genesis 31), in which the teraphim are ridiculed. Understanding in Hebrew means: She was Davids first wife, and she loved him long before she despised him (1 Sam 18: 28). }GBu$*,H H*RAh#c*"!klwGIHNTIc5p;x 'P.zV5 8h.Cx'UdEW'$f~RqB`Y(;/+Mh7Y}(&6 Michal saw herself as Sauls daughter and thus kept herself aloof from Saul uses Michal again. So, lets look at the women surrounding the life of David, the man after Gods own heart. Were in the living room, Saul is playing with his spear, David is relaxing and playing the harp. She proceeded to tell me about her teenage son and his troubles, that were her troubles too. We can learn from their successes and their mistakes how to be Gods influential women. If someone says they love you, don't just listen to what they say, watch what they do. endobj Lets challenge each other to intentionally choose to speak truth in love, kind words, gentle words, encouraging words, words that build up and not tear down. In one instance Saul tried to kill David and Michal warned David and helped him escape from Saul. <>/Metadata 149 0 R/ViewerPreferences 150 0 R>> Who was she and what happened to her after Saul and his family were killed? She was calling him an empty-headed fool (cf Mt 5:22). No doubt the memories of his first Adelman, Rachel. If you are in a relationship or considering getting married, then you may want to pay close attention to this article. son, but there would never again be the unity and allegiance that Saul This moment and the language used to describe Michal show that despite her relationship with David, she is associated with her fathers house, and not with that of King David. Our job is to discover that purpose. I Corinthians 13:4-8a Love is patient, love is kind, it does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud, it is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs, love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth, it always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres, love never fails. Instead of loving and protecting, we find her belittling and ridiculing David; wounding instead of helping. themselves to a mutual love, yet they are pressing toward an eternity of Michal is the daughter of King Saul ( 1 Sam. Did she miss David? Instead, we do it out of habit. Do you need a call toward repentance, like the people of Israel and Judah did? Life of David: 11. . We will not only look to the Law, the Prophets, and life and teachings . Yet her story was a sad one and, for at least one moment in Scripture, a bad one. This scene of Stop again for just a moment. Michal was the first, and in some ways, the most interesting, of Davids wivesshe is a full-fledged character with opinions and emotions of her own.4 Adele Berlin, Michals story is a sad one. Things had drastically changed over ten years and the Help us elevate the voices of Jewish women. others. Somehow, she went from being described as Davids wife to being described as the daughter of Saul, and there was no mention of her being in love with David. connected to our faith. God used these three women to teach Christians about living for Him! 5. Good works that have eternal purposes, just like Michal. Just as it took years to chisel away at the rough edges of the marble to smooth the sculptures surface to perfection, there were also years of refining, testing, training for the man of God to be Gods King of Israel and our women of influence were part of Gods plan for David. Abandoned. It was hard for David too. Foolish This reunion brings into sharp focus the bitternesss that had developed As you do this, that love continues to grow, helping you not just to start out in love but to stay in love throughout the years till death do you part. In fact, She is the only woman in the Old Testament of whom it is said that she loved a man7. David cried Oh God, save me, save my life. God lovingly did save him and God used Michal to deliver David from certain death. Dwelling in a largely agricultural part of the country, Micah lived outside the governmental centers of power in his nation, leading to his strong concern for the lowly and less fortunate of societythe lame, the outcasts, and the afflicted (Micah 4:6). But Michal, Davids wife, warned him, If you dont run for your life tonight, tomorrow youll be killed.12 So Michal let David down through a window, and he fled and escaped. But God was someone she knew nothing about. What do I do about calling a priest father at my Catholic University? Chapter 2. Love is love. David has taken off his royal robes so he too can dance and skip and sing with the crowd. Yet, the bible has recorded their names, and glimpses of their lives for a purpose. SBJT 02:3, Fall 1998). I grew sick of the way I would use words to hurt him and others. 2 Samuel 3:13-14 Good, said David. Here are 15 lessons from King David 's life we can all live by: 1. Is Physical Abuse Biblical Grounds for Divorce? I dont know if you caught it, so let me make you aware of it. during the separation. it a spot on todays best seller list. Exum, J. Cheryl. imagine how David felt as he waited for Michal? Sa 6:20). The book of Micah provides one of the most significant prophecies of Jesus Christ's birth in all the Old Testament, pointing some seven hundred years before Christ's birth to His birthplace of Bethlehem and to His eternal nature ( Micah 5:2 ). Michal lovingly protected David. Come near to them. The story of Michal is one that can be viewed from different perspectives. Saul is Israel's first king. Why Does God Compare Our Relationship with Him to That of a Bride and Groom? Three women are Davids wives and one is not a wife, not a concubine but she is invaluable to David. alienation. Kidnapped. met and married. Date of Writing: The Book of Micah was likely written between 735 and 700 B.C. In I was 12 years old when our 6th grade field trip went to New York City. and unconcerned behavior only further irritated her. religious zeal was dead. What I simply mean by this is not that you neglect or stop loving your father or mother, but your hierarchy of importance changes. Do not judge Gods nature by a humans failure. Along the way, David remarries. King Saul in the Historiography of Judah. Let us know. The next time we see her with David things have dramatically changed in their marriage. Tiglath-Pileser III of Assyria led a military campaign against Aram (Syria), Philistia and parts of Israel and Judah. Is it possible she was angry because she was no longer the wife of Paltiel? together is replaced by resentment and bitterness. Michal was the younger daughter of King Saul and is first mentioned in 1 Samuel 14:49. While the Minneapolis: Augsburg Fortress Press, 2014. Weve got to remember people are impacted by our words. To learn more about his ministry please visit clarencehaynes.com. Shalvi/Hyman Encyclopedia of Jewish Women. him were sarcastic. But the king protected Jonathan's son Mephibosheth. It is this same failing that is responsible for many marriages For Saul said to himself, 'I will not raise . Exum, J. Cheryl. Are Dreams and Visions Messages from God? One of the reasons we need to study these women is so that we may more fully understand holistically the man David, and his life: both personal and professional. Ashkelon and Gaza were defeated.