It is written in the Scriptures: in your anger do not sin. This shows that they lie close together: becoming angry and sinning. And James writes that the anger of a man does not produce the righteousness that God desires. As a rule, this is also the case. But here Saul’s anger is heartwarming. Here we find a man who becomes angry because of the offence offered to Israel and therein to God. Because whoever touches God’s nation touches the apple of his eye (Zech. 2:8). Saul’s anger can be compared to young David’s anger when he heard Goliath blaspheming and mocking. Thank God if there are still people who become angry because of these things; people that set boundaries for their understanding and do not tolerate mockery of any sort. Saul becomes angry because God’s honour is at stake. It is the Spirit of God that takes hold of him.
H. de Jong
6 And the Spirit of God rushed upon Saul when he heard these words, and his anger was greatly kindled.