1 Samuel 22:20-22
“But one son of Ahimelech the son of Ahitub, named Abiathar, escaped and fled after David.” (20) Clearly Abiathar did not blame David for the death of his family, but blamed Saul. Yet, David takes full responsibility for this tragedy saying, “…’I knew on that day, when Doeg the Edomite was there, that he would surely tell Saul. I have brought about the death of every person in your father’s household.” (22b). David is learning not to rely on his own craftiness, but upon his God. He takes full responsibility for the death of the priests and full responsibility for the life of Abiathar. There is such a sharp contrast between the motives and methods of David and that of Saul. When operating in insecurity and fear, we will not take responsibility for our actions regardless of how good the argument is against us. However, when we are seeking to follow God’s directives, we take full responsibility for actions even if it jeopardizes our personal security and reputation. May God give us the heart of David.
