Tested Again – The Power Of Consistent Character Series

TESTED AGAIN – THE POWER OF CONSISTENT CHARACTER

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: 1 Samuel 26

Supporting Texts: Proverbs 11:3, Psalm 26:1–2, Galatians 6:9, James 1:12, Hebrews 13:18

INTRODUCTION:

True character is not revealed in a single moment—it is proven over time. In 1 Samuel 26, David faces a familiar test: Saul once again seeks to kill him, and once again, God places Saul in David’s hands. This was not the first time David had the opportunity to take revenge, but it would show if he had learned from the first. Consistent character means making the right choice every time—not just once.

Many people pass one test and fail the next. Some show restraint once, only to give in later when the pressure intensifies. But David shows us a powerful principle: spiritual maturity is not about reacting emotionally; it’s about responding faithfully. He had the same opportunity as before, yet chose to honour God again. His consistency under pressure confirmed that he was truly a man after God’s heart.

This chapter reminds us that leadership is not just about victories in public—it’s about integrity in private. When no one is watching, when the pressure is personal, and when retaliation seems right, what you choose reveals who you truly are. David chose mercy again. He chose honour again. And God took note again.

1. FAMILIAR TESTS OFTEN RETURN TO REVEAL SPIRITUAL PROGRESS

David was tested again with the same opportunity to kill Saul. The repetition wasn’t random—it was a divine examination of growth.

a) Saul Returned to the Wilderness of Ziph to Hunt David (1 Samuel 26:1–2)

The same enemy came back, driven by the same envy. Some battles recur to reveal whether we’ve grown.

b) David Sent Spies and Confirmed Saul’s Location (1 Samuel 26:4)

He did not act on assumption—he moved with discernment. Wisdom is consistent with patience.

c) He Chose Abishai to Accompany Him into the Camp (1 Samuel 26:6)

David did not go alone—he selected company wisely, even for risky missions.

d) God Caused a Deep Sleep to Fall on Saul and His Men (1 Samuel 26:12)

This was divine orchestration—a test wrapped in opportunity.

Biblical Example: God tested Abraham again when He asked him to sacrifice Isaac—even after previous tests of faith (Genesis 22:1).

2. CONSISTENCY IN INTEGRITY HONOURS GOD MORE THAN REVENGE EVER CAN

Abishai saw a moment to eliminate Saul; David saw a moment to honour God. The test was less about Saul and more about David.

a) Abishai Urged David to Kill Saul Instantly (1 Samuel 26:8)

He even offered to do it himself. Many around us will push us into justified sin.

b) David Forbade Him, Saying, “Who Can Stretch His Hand Against the Lord’s Anointed?” (1 Samuel 26:9)

He remained consistent in honour—even when it was difficult. Real integrity does not change with pressure.

c) David Took Saul’s Spear and Water Jar Instead (1 Samuel 26:12)

He wanted to prove he had opportunity without causing harm. Mercy speaks louder than vengeance.

d) David Left Judgment to God’s Timing (1 Samuel 26:10)

He trusted divine justice. When you believe in God’s timing, you don’t rush outcomes.

Biblical Example: Jesus, though mocked and crucified, “committed Himself to Him that judgeth righteously” (1 Peter 2:23).

3. PUBLICLY REFUSING REVENGE SHAMES THE ENEMY AND HONOURS GOD

David did not just spare Saul in private—he declared it publicly. Honour must be vocal as well as internal.

a) David Called Out to Abner and Rebuked His Negligence (1 Samuel 26:14–16)

He pointed out their failure to protect the king. Integrity gives you boldness.

b) He Displayed the Spear and Water Jar as Proof (1 Samuel 26:16)

This was a silent sermon: “I could have destroyed you, but I chose life.”

c) Saul Recognised David’s Voice and Responded (1 Samuel 26:17)

Even enemies are moved when you operate with mercy.

d) David Addressed Saul Respectfully Yet Honestly (1 Samuel 26:18–20)

He spoke truth, but with honour. You can be honest and still walk in humility.

Biblical Example: Stephen, while being stoned, prayed for his persecutors. His consistent character opened heaven (Acts 7:59–60).

4. CONSISTENT CHARACTER BRINGS DIVINE AND HUMAN VALIDATION

David’s decision touched even Saul’s hardened heart. His integrity continued to prepare the way for kingship.

a) Saul Admitted His Sin and Asked David to Return (1 Samuel 26:21)

Mercy softened a murderous heart. True character disarms hatred.

b) David Still Kept His Distance Despite the Apology (1 Samuel 26:22–23)

Forgiveness does not mean foolish trust. Wisdom maintains boundaries.

c) David Declared That the Lord Rewards Righteousness and Faithfulness (1 Samuel 26:23)

He acknowledged that God sees and repays character.

d) Saul Blessed David and Acknowledged His Greatness (1 Samuel 26:25)

Even your enemy will prophesy your greatness when you walk in honour.

Biblical Example: Daniel’s consistent integrity caused even pagan kings to recognise the hand of God upon him (Daniel 6:4, 20–22).