One of the many titles by which Jesus was known is “Son of David.” Both Mathew and Luke trace the genealogy of our Lord through Joseph back to David, and beyond. Jesus was a Son of David in many more ways than one. For example, like David, he never acted out of revenge. In 1 Sam 24:3-21, we see David in an ideal position to destroy King Saul who has been following him with the explicit intention to have him killed. David’s companions unanimously urge him to get Saul first, before Saul succeeds in accomplishing his evil mission. David briefly considers the possibility and then flatly rejects the advice of his companions. He spares the life of Saul. One of the reasons why David does not strike out in revenge is his tremendous respect for the office of the king.
Revenge may have some appeal to us, too, especially if we have been mercilessly hounded and hurt by another. Others may encourage us to seek revenge and tell us that it is the wise and proper thing to do. We, however, must make that decision and be prepared to live with it. The fact that David could reject adverse advice, control his revengeful feelings, and manifest such outstanding respect for the office of the king, shows how very well qualified he was to later become the king.