It seemed clear to David’s men that the Lord had given Saul into David’s hand and that David had to kill him now.1 Indeed they urged David to murder Saul.2 Most likely they were basing their claim on some of what they had previously heard from David. Their own interpretation of what God had revealed,3 since their prophecy is not cited elsewhere in Scripture.4 Whilst it is true that the kingdom was promised to David (see 1 Samuel 20:13–16; 1 Samuel 23:15–17), he was not told how he would come into possession of it.5
4 And the men of David said to him, “Here is the day of which the LORD said to you, ‘Behold, I will give your enemy into your hand, and you shall do to him as it shall seem good to you.’” Then David arose and stealthily cut off a corner of Saul’s robe.