A king's jealousy

After 1 Samuel 18:8-16 

To hear a warrior praised

for his success, his deeds,

greater than the king’s

success and deeds, and

suddenly the music and

songs of celebration

fall away, leaving silence,

a dread silence, in the ears

of the king. The silence

of pride and jealousy provides

the opening for a spirit,

evil and malicious, to enter

a king’s heart. He bides

his time; he doesn’t strike

yet. He waits until he hears

the warrior play the lyre,

and without warning 

the king hurls a spear.

He misses, twice, but

he still bides his time.

 

Photograph by Peter Forster via Unsplash. Used with permission.

Some Sunday Readings

 

What is “Shalom” According to Scripture? – Hugh Whelchel at the Institute for Faith, Work, & Economics.

 

Snowbird: Between places – Mel Livatino at Front Porch Republic.

 

The Fruit of the Spirit: Self Control – Robb Brunansky at The Cripplegate.