1 Samuel 25 opens with the death of Samuel. David and his men are still in the wilderness. They are living near a rich man with many sheep. Because of their location they have been providing him protection. David sends some men to ask for food but the man refuses. David becomes angry and gets ready to attack the man, but the man’s wife Abigail brings food to David and pleads for her husband and household. David spares them. Shortly thereafter the man dies and David marries Abigail.

1 Samuel 26 opens with Saul pursuing David again. Even though they had made peace, it was apparently short-lived. While Saul is sleeping David enters his camp. His companion offers to kill Saul but David refuses because Saul is the Lord’s anointed. He takes Saul’s spear and water jug. The next morning he shows it to Saul and his guards. David pleads again with Saul that he does not mean any harm to the king. Saul admits he is wrong and tells David to come back. David leaves and Saul returns home.

Things appear to be going well again, but will it last?

Psalm 49 is an admonition to remain faithful. It speaks of not fearing those who trust in their wealth. They will die and will not be able to take their wealth with them. Their reward is temporary. The faithful however will be ransomed by God and be received by him. Their reward will last into eternity.