Warned by Jonathan, son of Saul, David was running for his life. One night, he and his men had to stay in Nob. Abimelech the priest received him and provided him with sacred showbread that was in the Tabernacle, and also gave him the Sword of Goliath. Doeg, an Edomite, reported this to Saul. Saul commanded Priest Abimelech and his family and all priests to be executed. Doeg executed the order that 85 priests, along with women, children, infants, cattle, donkeys, and sheep, were killed. (I Samuel 21,22; Psalm 52)
Mighty man? Was Doeg a mighty man? David mocked him, stating he was a mighty tyrant or bully. He killed men who were unarmed and not trained in warfare. He should be ashamed of his might and skills of warfare.
Boastful: He boasted when he delivered the information, with a joyful attitude. Boast is a mask for insecurity. As an Edomite, he wanted to prove his credentials to continue in the service of Saul. He thought quite highly of himself and showed a sense of superiority.
Love evil: Doeg had a wicked heart and mind; hence, he chooses evil, is comfortable with evil, and ultimately loves evil. The evil heart produces a mischievous tongue and stinking words.
Falsehood: Devouring words and a deceitful tongue. The tongue of Doeg devises destruction, by deceitful words that were sharp like a razor. A person pretending to use a razor to shave off hair, but unexpectedly cut the throat.
The goodness of God: David believed that the goodness of God was steady, steadfast, and consistent. Because of goodness, David will flourish like an olive tree in God’s courts.
Vengeance: God will destroy Doeg along with all the wicked forever. The wicked will be demolished and destroyed. They will be snatched like a lump of coal from the fire. They will be taken away from their safe dwelling place. Like a tree uprooted, they will also be. Fruitless trees would be uprooted. Such judgment will come upon those who do not have God as their strength and depend on their riches.
Do I shun wickedness and trust God?