David Appears before Saul

16:14 Now the Spirit of the Lord had turned away from Saul, and an evil spirit22 from the Lord tormented him. 16:15 Then Saul’s servants said to him, “Look, an evil spirit from God is tormenting you!” 16:16 Let our lord instruct his servants who are here before you to look for a man who knows how to play the lyre. Then whenever the evil spirit from God comes upon you, he can play the lyre23 and you will feel better.”24 16:17 So Saul said to his servants, “Find25 me a man who plays well and bring him to me.” 16:18 One of his attendants replied,26 “I have seen a son of Jesse in Bethlehem27 who knows how to play the lyre. He is a brave warrior28 and is articulate29 and handsome,30 for the Lord is with him.”

16:19 So Saul sent messengers to Jesse and said, “Send me your son David, who is out with the sheep. 16:20 So Jesse took a donkey loaded with bread, a container of wine, and a young goat31 and sent them to Saul with32 his son David. 16:21 David came to Saul and stood before him. Saul liked him a great deal,33 and he became his armor bearer. 16:22 Then Saul sent word to Jesse saying, “Let David be my servant, for I really like him.”34

16:23 So whenever the spirit from God would come upon Saul, David would take his lyre and play it. This would bring relief to Saul and make him feel better. Then the evil spirit would leave him alone.35