1 Samuel 16:21

Stood before him. This statement refers, not to David’s posture in the presence of Saul, but to the fact that David “entered his service” (RSV; see Gen. 41:46; Dan. 1:19). In the providence of God, David was thus brought into a situation where he would have contact with the leading men of the nation — who might thus learn to appreciate his talents — and with the affairs of government. Saul was probably permitted to remain on the throne until the seeds of evil in his life should produce their certain harvest, and until David’s preliminary training was complete.

Loved him greatly. Even Saul came to honor and respect the naturally attractive personality of David, and to esteem in him those qualities implanted there by the Holy Spirit. Saul recognized the obvious superiority of this promising young man, tacitly admitting the wisdom of God’s choice of a successor to the throne.

Armourbearer. Appointment to this position brought David into the closest possible relationship to the king and made him personally responsible for the king’s safety. It is possible that this statement is made in anticipation of David’s role at court after the victory over Goliath (see ch. 18:2, 5).