John Gill's Bible Commentary Ver. 7. If he say thus, [it is] well , etc.] It is very well, it is very good and right in him to do so: thy servant shall have peace ; it will be a token that the wrath of the king was removed, and that his mind was well disposed towards David, and things had taken an happy turn, and would issue in his peace and prosperity: but if he be very wroth ; with Jonathan for giving leave, and with David for going away: [then] be sure that evil is determined by him ; that he has a settled obstinate malice in his heart, which is become implacable and inveterate, and confirmed in him; and that it is a determined point with him to slay David if possible, which he hoped to have an opportunity of doing at that time in which he was disappointed, and caused such wrath in him.
Matthew Henry Commentary
Verses 1-10 - The trials David met with, prepared him for future advancement. Thu the Lord deals with those whom he prepares unto glory. He does not pu them into immediate possession of the kingdom, but leads them to it through much tribulation, which he makes the means of fitting them for it. Let them not murmur at his gracious appointment, nor distrust his care; but let them look forward with joyful expectation to the crow which is laid up for them. Sometimes it appears to us that there is but a step between us and death; at all times it may be so, and we shoul prepare for the event. But though dangers appear most threatening, we cannot die till the purpose of God concerning us is accomplished; no till we have served our generation according to his will, if we ar believers. Jonathan generously offers David his services. This is tru friendship. Thus Christ testifies his love to us, Ask, and it shall be done for you; and we must testify our love to him, by keeping his commandments.
Original Hebrew אם518 כה3541 יאמר559 טוב2896 שׁלום7965 לעבדך5650 ואם518 חרה2734 יחרה2734 לו דע3045 כי3588 כלתה3615 הרעה7451 מעמו׃5973
