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Ryan Reynolds here from Mint Mobile with a message for everyone paying Big wireless way too much. Please, for the love of everything good in this world, stop with Mint. You can get premium wireless for just $15 a month. Of course, if you enjoy overpaying, no judgments. But that's weird. Okay, one judgment anyway. Give it a try@mintmobile.com Switch upfront payment of $45 for 3 month plan equivalent to $15 per month required intro rate first 3 months only, then full price plan options available, taxes and fees extra. See full terms@mintmobile.com previously on the Chosen People. As you have torn my robe, so the Lord has torn the kingdom from you. He will give it to another. The Lord has already chosen him. He is a man that seeks after the heart of God more than the heart of the people. They sang a song, one that rippled through the crowd like wildfire. Saul has slain his thousands, but David his 10,000. He will take it from me. My my kingdom, my throne, my legacy. I will not let him. I will not let him. Saul rose from his throne, the spear held firmly in his grasp. David's eyes fluttered open just as Saul whispered under his breath, pin him to the wow. Saul was already reaching for a third spear when David darted to the window. I hope we can put our disagreement yesterday behind us. You and McCall shall be wed before God. You will be made my son, and all the privileges of the kingdom will be yours. Saul felt his crown grow heavier with every cheer. His son loved David. His daughter loved David. And his people. People love David. Soon they would love him enough to make him king. How much are life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness worth to you? This is the question America's founders had to answer. You see, for more than 150 years, America's 13 colonies governed themselves until Britain declared they had no right to self rule. So ordinary people had to make extraordinary choices and risk their lives, their fortunes, and their sacred honor to fight for independence. And against all odds, they won. And in victory, they built one of the most stable and lasting republics in history. Now experience the American Revolution like never before, thanks to our friends at Hillsdale College. Revolutionary America, a new documentary from Hillsdale Studios and narrated by Tom Selleck, brings the founding of our nation to life through the voices of those who lived it. Alongside insights from leading scholars and commentators at a time when history is often distorted, this is your chance to see the story as it truly happened and ask yourself what you would risk for freedom. Face the decisions our Founders grappled with in revolutionary America. A Hillsdale Studios Film Only in theaters May 31 to June 2. Get your tickets now by going to Hillsdale Edu Revolution. You don't want to miss the opportunity to see this on the big screen. Go to Hillsdale Edu Revolution to locate a theater near you and buy tickets now for Revolutionary America Rayman Meta lets you explore the world without a screen getting in the way so you can stay present in the moment. Hey, Meta, tell me what kind of dessert this is. That's a stroopwafel, a Dutch waffle with spiced syrup in the middle. Is it sweet? Yes. Perfect for a snack or dessert. Mmm, delicious. Get answers on the go without interrupting your flow. Ray Ban Metta Iconic Style meets Meta AI Available at Walmart and other authorized retailers. Expedia and visit Scotland Invite you to come Step into centuries of history that await in Scotland. Castles steeped in legend. Walk along cobblestone streets. Come share the warmth of stories passed down through generations. This is a place with a past that is fully present today and all yours to explore. Plan your Scottish escape today@expedia.com VisitScotland the torchlight flickered against Saul's face, casting jagged shadows across the war room walls. His breath came hard and fast, his chest rising like a bellows. He towered over the table, his fingers curled into fists against the wood. Around him, his most trusted men stood silent, their faces grim. The unity of our nation is under attack. No one dared to move. The tapestry behind Saul hung heavy with the weight of history. Twelve tribes embroidered in gold thread, a symbol of the nation he had been chosen to rule. Saul turned, drew his dagger, and in one violent motion slashed the fabric down the middle. The sound of tearing cloth echoed like a war cry. Don't you see what he's doing? They chant his name in the streets. They look to him instead of me. The people praise him as though he were the Lord himself. Murmurs passed between the elders and generals. Some nodded, their faces twisted with concern. Others shifted uncomfortably, exchanging wary glances. If they do not trust me over David, we will have a civil war on our hands. He will revolt when the moment is right, and when he does, the kingdom will be split in two. Still, no one spoke. Jonathan stood at the back of the room, half hidden in the shadows, his arms crossed over his chest. He had heard his father's rants before, but never like this. This was something darker, something dangerous. He saw the madness creeping behind his father's eyes, twisting his mind like a thorny vine. Sol was pacing now, his dagger dancing between his fingers. It must be Done quietly. If the people send suspect me, they will turn against me. We will. You will make it look like an accident. Or. Or perhaps the Philistines could take the blame. A few well placed rumors and the people will believe they assassinated their precious giant slayer. Jonathan's heart pounded. His father was going to kill David. Jonathan forced his face into a mask of indifference, waiting, listening. Saul's voice became a distant hum as his mind raced. He needed to get out, needed to warn David before the assassins could be sent. The moment came when Saul turned to speak to one of his commanders. Jonathan didn't hesitate. He slipped into the shadows, moving quickly through the halls of the palace. If he was fast enough, he could save David before it was too late. The star stretched wide and endless over Gibeah. A cool breeze slipped through the narrow window of David's room, rustling the linen drapes before brushing against his cheek. He stirred, drawing the blankets tighter around him, instinctively shifting closer to Michal. For the first time in what felt like years, David allowed himself a moment of peace. He had earned this. This bed, this home, this wife who slept soundly at his side. His dreams were soft, wrapped in the memories of his boyhood. Rolling hills, green and boundless. And then a firm hand clamped over his mouth. David's body tensed. His fingers shot toward the dagger beneath his pillow, ready to plunge steel into flesh. He twisted only for the moonlight to catch a familiar face. Jonathan. Jonathan pressed a finger to his lips. Michal stirred beside him but did not wake. David exhaled sharply. Setting the dagger down, he slipped from the bed without a sound, careful not to rouse his wife and follow Jonathan outside. What's this about, Jonathan? You're in danger, little brother. My father seeks your life. It could be tonight, it could be next week. But his mind is made up. He means to kill you. He's possessed by jealousy and delusion. David's jaw tightened. He gave the smallest of nods. Jonathan peered at David, sensing something wasn't right. You don't seem surprised. Is there something you're not telling me? Your father has already tried to kill me. What? He threw a spear at me. When he missed, he threw another. I left before he could try a third. Why didn't you tell me? He's still my king. I have to give him the benefit of the doubt. David. There's a line between loyalty and madness. You should have told me. Should have told Michael. Saul is troubled. I didn't think he was. Out of hatred. Shortly after his attempt on my life, he gave me Michael's hand in marriage. You were Wrong to give him that much grace. He's not in his right mind. Are you in danger for telling me this? I don't want you in trouble. You and I made a covenant. That bond is stronger than blood. I'll protect you. I swear. I'll follow your lead. Stay hidden tonight. In the morning, I will go out with my father into the fields. I will speak well of you and test his heart. Let me be your advocate. Michal called from inside. David? Where'd you go? David smiled at Jonathan, though there was sorrow behind it. He pulled Jonathan into a firm impression embrace, holding him tightly. There are friends who stick closer than brothers. There are fools who walk willingly into the lion's den. David gave a final nod before slipping back inside to Michal. He reached for his dagger the moment he stepped through the door, keeping it closer than ever. Jonathan disappeared into the night, weaving through the palace gardens with quiet urgency. The morning sun cast a golden glow over the fields of Gibeah, the wheat swaying gently in the breeze like ripples across a vast sea. Jonathan walked the fields beside his father, speaking of the kingdom, of battle, of their family. Father, there is a matter I wish to discuss. Ah. Speak your anger against David. I don't understand it. What has he done to deserve your hatred? Saul stopped slowly. He turned to face his son, his expression unreadable. It is not what he has done, Jonathan. It is what he will do. The people praise him. They cheer his name louder than mine. They whisper of him in the streets and sing songs of his victories. It is only a matter of time before they seek to give him the kingdom. Your. Your kingdom? It's God's kingdom, Father. Not mine or yours. Saul scoffed and waved the correction away like an annoying fly. You. You don't understand, Jonathan. This is about establishing a stable lineage. If any shepherd boy or peddler from the streets can come and challenge the throne, this nation will never be an established kingdom. He isn't some peddler, Father. He's the one who slew Goliath. Jonathan did not back down, desperate to find reason with his father. I beg you, do not sin against your servant David. His hands are clean, his heart loyal. His deeds have brought nothing but prosperity to this nation. Prosperity to you? Why would you strike down one whom God has chosen to bless? Saul said nothing, his gaze locked on the ground beneath his feet. He felt as though he was standing on shifting sand, unsteady, off balance. His mind had not felt clear in a very long time. He did not know if it ever would again. You. You are a wise man, my son. As the Lord lives, David shall not be harmed by my hand. Jonathan released a breath he had not realized he was holding. That same day, Jonathan sought out David and told him what had passed between him and the king. The relief in David's eyes was clear, though caution still lingered behind them. And for a time, peace returned. David was restored to Saul, Saul's court. He sat once more at the king's table, partook in the feasts, and laughed with Jonathan as they had before. He played his harp beside Saul's throne, the melodies soothing the restless spirit of the king. It was as if nothing had ever been wrong. Tomorrow morning is knocking. Stock your fridge now. How about a creamy mocha Frappuccino drink? Or a sweet vanilla smooth caramel maybe? Or white chocolate mocha? Whichever you choose, delicious coffee awaits. Find Starbucks Frappuccino drinks wherever you buy your groceries. Struggling with weight loss? 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Car Selling without a Catch Sell your car today on Carvana. Pick up fees may apply. David's fingers danced along the strings of his harp, weaving a melody unlike any he had played before. It climbed higher with each note, rising and rising like the wind before the breaking of dawn. It was hope given sound, joy given breath, defiance of darkness that could not be silenced. Saul loathed it. The fire in the hearth flickered wildly as the king sat upon his throne, his hand clenched around the shaft of his spear. David did not sing this to Lyrics were unnecessary, but Saul filled in the space on his own. The only words he could hear sung were, saul has killed his thousands and David his ten thousands. Saul's grip on his spear tightened. The melody climbed, lifting higher, refusing to be dampened. Saul stood, his breath ragged, his fury tightening around his throat like a noose. He could not bear it. He would not bear it. David plucked the final note. Saul roared, die, O miserable rat. The spear left his hand with a whistle, cutting through the air like lightning, aimed straight for David's chest. But the shepherd had been waiting for this. He shifted to the left, barely escaping it. The spear shot past his shoulder, embedd itself into the cedar beam behind him with a deep, shuddering thunk. Silence followed. David stood motionless, his eyes locked onto the king. Saul's nostrils flared, his hands shaking, his lips curling back in a snarl. He was not a king at that moment. He was a beast, an animal, cornered, desperate to destroy the thing that made him feel so small. David had seen that look before, in the lion that stole his land, in the giant Goliath. The boy did not hesitate. The moment Saul's hand twitched toward another spear, David turned and fled. Saul's hatred had spilled over. Run, you peasant. You coward. You'll have nowhere to call home. You'll be a fugitive in this country. Your name will be a scourge to all people. All people. David slammed the door behind him, breathless. The house was dark, but Michal stirred from their bed, her eyes sharp with worry. What happened? David's hands shook as he ran them through. His hair pulled, pulling it back tight. Your father has tried to kill me again. Again? What do you mean, again? David fumbled through his chest of belongings and strapped Jonathan's armor around his chest. He packed his robe and a few daggers in a leather sack. The first time I thought it was rage. Just an outburst. I forgave him, but. But now. Now I know he wants me dead. What did you do to make him want to kill you? Nothing. I've been nothing but faithful to your father. You know that. I'm. I'm not so sure. Michael. You know me. Do I? There was a sound in the distance. The two peered through. Through the night. Flickering torchlight wavered in the distance, shadows shifting, men lurking just beyond the walls. Your father's men. They're waiting. They won't strike now. They'll wait for dawn, when I step out. And then. Michael, I refuse to fight them. They're my countrymen, brothers in arms. I won't spill their blood, not even to save my own. The. Michal paused, weighing every word. She was conflicted in her heart. She knew David was innocent, but her life on the run filled her with dread. Michal drew a deep breath and grabbed David's face between her hands. Okay. Okay. Then listen to me. If you do not escape tonight, they will kill you. David shook his head. He gripped her wrists, his touch firm but pleading. Come with me, my love. Michal exhaled sharply, frustration flashing in her eyes. She yanked away from his grasp and snatched a sack, stuffing it with bread and dried meat. No, I can't, Michael. David hesitated, torn. But Michal's hands were swift, fastening the sack and pressing it into his arms. If I go with you, my father will think you kidnapped me. She cupped his face again, softer this time, and kissed him. A deep, desperate kiss, as if it would be their last. Then she pulled away. Go. David nodded, silent. He slung the sack over his shoulder, and together they fastened a rope to the window. He climbed through, gripping tightly as he lowered himself down into the darkness. The moment his feet touched the ground, he was gone, swallowed by the hills beyond the city. Michal lingered at the window, watching the shadows until he disappeared. Then, swiftly she moved. She gathered pillows, arranging them beneath the blankets to mimic a sleeping figure. She pulled goat's fur over the top, fashioning it to resemble David's hair. And then she climbed into bed, her heart pounding in her throat, waiting. The knock at the door was firm, deliberate. Michel sat upright in bed. Her breath caught in her throat. Who is it? She knew. On the other side of the door stood Abner, commander of her father's armies. We come for your father, my lady. We're here to speak with your husband. Could you get him? He is ill. You will have to come by tomorrow. He is in his bed and cannot get up. A long silence, then a shift in tone. We have strict orders from the king. We will see him now. They were not asking. The door cracked open. Michal stood frozen, helpless, as Abner and his men entered, swords already drawn. They moved with careful precision, unwilling to take any chances against a man like David. Abner approached the bed. Slowly he raced his sword above his head. Then, with all his weight, he plunged it downward. He cursed under his breath and ripped the blanket aside, revealing nothing but a pile of pillows, furs, and empty space. Michal gasped as Abner whirled on her. Where is he? Michal collapsed to the floor, her body trembling as tears spilled freely down her cheeks. Abner exhaled sharply through his nose. He rolled his eyes, then sheathed his blade with an irritated huff. Fetch the king. Last thing I want is to harm his daughter? Trust trying to get the truth? His men obeyed. It was not long before Saul arrived. His massive frame seemed to shrink, the very walls around him. Michal cowered, trembling on the floor beside the bed. Saul bent down, his teeth clenched so tightly that Michal could hear them grinding. Daughter. Where? Where is he? Michal's breath came in quick, panicked gasps. She had a choice to make. Would she honor her husband? Or would she save herself? She thought of David running through the night, a fugitive now, a man on the run. Would she ever see him again? Would she be left alone, stripped of her title, her comforts, her her security? Was he really worth it? Michal lifted her tear streaked face. Her voice came out in a choked sob as she lunged forward, throwing her arms around her father's neck. No, Father. Thank the Lord you have come. David. David threatened my life. He said he would kill me if I did not help him escape. Her body shook with shame. Saul stiffened, stunned. Even he, in all his hatred, could not fully believe it. David threaten Michal? It did not seem his way, but her tears were real, her voice broken. And in Saul's twisted mind it made sense. The boy had stood, stolen his throne in the people's hearts. Why not steal his daughter's life as well? Saul gripped Michal's arms, holding her close. I swear to you, my daughter, I will find him. I will destroy him. He will not hurt you again. Then he stood, his face carved from stone. Abner, the commander stepped forward. Send out scouts. Have them search the city for David. But tell no one. We seek his life. I cannot have the people rising up to protect him. Abner nodded, already moving. Michal stayed where she was, her face buried in her hands, her tears running hot with guilt. This prey.com production is only made possible by our dedicated team of creative talents. Steve Catena, Max Bard, Zach Shellavaga, and Ben Gammon are the executive producers of the Chosen People. Narrated by Paul Coltofianu. Characters are voiced by Jonathan Cotton, Aaron Salvato, Sarah Seltz, Mike Reagan, Stephen Ringwald, Sylvia zaradoc, Thomas Copeland Jr. Rosanna Pilcher and Mitch Leschinsky. Music by Andrew Morgan Smith. Written by Aaron Salvato, Bree Rosely and Chris Baig. You can hear more prey.com productions on the prey.com app, available on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. If you enjoyed the Chosen People, please rate and leave a review.
Episode: David Escapes Saul
Host: Pray.com
Date: May 28, 2026
This episode of The Chosen People dives into one of the most dramatic turning points in the story of David and Saul: David’s narrow escape from King Saul’s murderous jealousy. Through atmospheric storytelling and thoughtful dialogue, the episode explores the emotional complexity of loyalty, fear, and trust when alliances are tested at the highest levels. Listeners are invited to contemplate faith, friendship, and the personal cost of divine calling.
Saul’s Jealousy Intensifies ([08:13])
“Don’t you see what he’s doing? They chant his name in the streets... They look to him instead of me. The people praise him as though he were the Lord himself.” (Saul, 08:32)
Jonathan’s Dilemma ([09:45])
“You and I made a covenant. That bond is stronger than blood. I’ll protect you, I swear.” (Jonathan, 13:52)
“My father seeks your life. It could be tonight, could be next week. But his mind is made up.” (Jonathan, 13:12)
“Why would you strike down one whom God has chosen to bless?” (Jonathan, 17:10)
“You are a wise man, my son. As the Lord lives, David shall not be harmed by my hand.” (Saul, 18:09)
“Die, O miserable rat!” (Saul, 21:10)
Escape Through the Window ([22:43])
“Your father has tried to kill me again.” (David, 23:21)
“If you do not escape tonight, they will kill you.” (Michal, 24:07)
Michal Faces Saul ([27:13])
“David threatened my life. He said he would kill me if I did not help him escape.” (Michal, 29:08)
“If the people suspect me, they will turn against me. You will make it look like an accident. Or perhaps the Philistines could take the blame…” (Saul, 09:11)
“You and I made a covenant. That bond is stronger than blood. I’ll protect you. I swear. I’ll follow your lead.” (Jonathan, 13:52)
“If I go with you, my father will think you kidnapped me.” (Michal, 24:47)
“Run, you peasant. You coward. You’ll have nowhere to call home. You’ll be a fugitive in this country. Your name will be a scourge to all people.” (Saul, 22:16)
“David threatened my life. He said he would kill me if I did not help him escape.” (Michal, 29:08)
Throughout the episode, the narration oscillates between tension, heartbreak, and hope. Dialogue retains an authentic, emotional register appropriate to the biblical context—often contemplative, urgent, and raw. The dramatic presentation highlights not just the epic narrative but also the deep humanity and spirituality of its characters.
For listeners seeking an immersive, faith-centered retelling of this pivotal Old Testament moment, this episode delivers both dramatic storytelling and poignant insight.