Beginning of the End - Ellen G. White

future ruler.
When Saul and David were returning from battle with the
Philistines, "the women had come out of all cities of Israel, singing
and dancing, to meet King Saul, with tambourines, with joy, and
with musical instruments." One company sang, "Saul has slain his
thousands," while another company responded, "And David his ten
thousands." The king was angry because David was exalted above
himself. Rather than subdue his envious feelings, he exclaimed,
"They have ascribed to David ten thousands, and to me they have
ascribed only thousands. Now what more can he have but the
kingdom?"
Saul's love of praise had a controlling influence over his actions
and thoughts. His standard of right and wrong was popular applause,
and his ambition was to be first in people's estimation. A settled
conviction entered the mind of the king that David would obtain the
heart of the people and take his throne.
The Demon of Jealousy Enters Saul's Heart
Saul opened his heart to the spirit of jealousy that poisoned his
soul. The king of Israel was opposing his will to the will of the
Infinite One. He allowed his emotions to control his judgment until
he was plunged into a fury of passion. He had fits of rage, times
when he was ready to kill any who dared to oppose him. From this
frenzy he would lapse into despondency and self-contempt, and
remorse would take possession of his mind.
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