Again war was declared between the Israelites and the Philistines, and David led the army against their enemies. A great victory was gained by the Hebrews, and the people of the realm praised his wisdom and heroism. This served to stir up the former bitterness of Saul against him. While the young man was playing before the king, filling the palace with sweet harmony. 653 Saul's passion overcame him, and he hurled a javelin at David, thinking to pin the musician to the wall; but the angel of the Lord turned aside the deadly weapon. David escaped and fled to his own house. Saul sent spies that they might take him as he should come out in the morning, and put an end to his life.

Nu udbrød der en ny krig imellem israelitterne og filisterne, og hæren drog ud under anførsel af David. Hebræerne vandt en stor sejr, og hele folket roste ham for hans klogskab og heltemod. Dette fik atter Sauls gamle had til David til at blusse op. En dag, da den unge mand spillede for kongen og fyldte paladset med sin skønne musik, løb hidsigheden af med Saul, og han kastede et spyd efter David for at spidde ham til væggen; men Herrens engel skubbede det dræbende våben til side. David undslap og flygtede til sit hjem. Saul sendte folk ud for at gribe ham, når han gik ud om morgenen, og gøre ende på hans liv.