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The Truth About Angels
Angels of heaven shielded Jonathan and his attendant, angels
fought by their side, and the Philistines fell before them.—
Patriarchs
and Prophets, 623
.
Angels of God fought by the side of Jonathan, and the Philistines
fell all around him. Great fear seized the host of the Philistines in
the field and in the garrison.... The earth trembled beneath them, as
though a great multitude with horsemen and chariots were upon the
ground prepared for battle. Jonathan and his armor-bearer, and even
the Philistine host knew that the Lord was working for the deliverance
of the Hebrews.—
Spiritual Gifts 4a:70
.
David’s Early Years
Samuel came no more to Saul with directions from God. The Lord
could not employ him to carry out His purposes. But He sent Samuel
to the house of Jesse, to anoint David, whom He had selected to be
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ruler in place of Saul, whom He had rejected.
As the sons of Jesse passed before Samuel, he would have selected
Eliab, who was of high stature, and dignified appearance, but the angel
of God stood by him to guide him in the important decision, and
instructed him that he should not judge from appearance. Eliab did
not fear the Lord. His heart was not right with God. He would make a
proud, exacting ruler. None were found among the sons of Jesse but
David, the youngest, whose humble occupation was that of tending
sheep.—
Spiritual Gifts 4a:77, 78
.
David was not of lofty stature; but his countenance was beautiful,
expressive of humility, honesty, and true courage. The angel of God
signified to Samuel that David was the one for him to anoint, for he
was God’s chosen. From that time the Lord gave David a prudent and
understanding heart.—
The Spirit of Prophecy 1:368
.
David’s eldest brother, Eliab, ... was jealous of David, because
he was honored before him. He despised David, and looked upon
him as inferior to himself. He accused him before others of stealing
away unknown to his father to see the battle.... David repels the unjust
charge, and says, “What have I now done? Is there not a cause?” David
is not careful to explain to his brother that he had come to the help of
Israel; that God had sent him to slay Goliath. God had chosen him to
be a ruler of Israel; and as the armies of the living God were in such