17. Saul could tell it was David's voice, and he called out, “David, my son! Is that you?”“Yes it is, Your Majesty.
18. Why are you after me? Have I done something wrong, or have I committed a crime?
19. Please listen to what I have to say. If the Lord has turned you against me, perhaps a sacrifice will make him change his mind. But if some people have turned you against me, I hope the Lord will punish them! They have forced me to leave the land that belongs to the Lord and have told me to worship foreign gods.
20. Don't let me die in a land far away from the Lord. I'm no more important than a flea! Why should the king of Israel hunt me down as if I were a bird in the mountains?”
21. “David, you had the chance to kill me today. But you didn't. I was very wrong about you. It was a terrible mistake for me to try to kill you. I've acted like a fool, but I'll never try to harm you again. You're like a son to me, so please come back.”
22. “Your Majesty, here's your spear! Let one of your soldiers come and get it.
23. The Lord put you in my power today, but you are his chosen king and I wouldn't harm you. The Lord rewards people who are faithful and live right.
24. I saved your life today, and I pray that the Lord will protect me and keep me safe.”
25. “David, my son, I pray that the Lord will bless you and make you successful!”Saul went back home. David also left,