Contemplative Bible Reading

1 Samuel 26:12 (New Living Translation)

12 So David took the spear and jug of water that were near Saul’s head. Then he and Abishai got away without anyone seeing them or even waking up, because the Lord had put Saul’s men into a deep sleep.

This is another episode in the (hi)story of David being chased by King Saul. David and a companion sneak into Saul’s camp at night. They take items next to Saul’s head without being detected. It was easy because Jehovah God put Saul’s men into a deep sleep. A thundering herd would not have awoken them.

God acts in great big ways that are obvious to everyone. See, for example, parting a sea so people could walk on dry land. See, also, prophets (and Jesus) bring dead people back to life.

God also acts in ways that are not obvious to everyone. This (hi)story is one example. God caused people to sleep deeply and restfully. My guess is that Saul’s men woke the next morning feeling full of energy after having slept deeply and peacefully.

God also acts everyday in ways that are not obvious to everyone. “Please God,” I often pray, “grant me sleep so I awake rested.” I like that prayer. I like it that God gives us rest from the toils of the day. I pray that we all are rested. Fatigue always wins in our lives.

So a simple thing like sleeping was under God’s purview. God acted; David acted, and everyone learned something about everyone else and about God.