12. Saul was afraid of David because the Lord was with David but had abandoned him.
13. So Saul sent him away and put him in command of a thousand men. David led his men in battle
14. and was successful in all he did, because the Lord was with him.
15. Saul noticed David's success and became even more afraid of him.
16. But everyone in Israel and Judah loved David because he was such a successful leader.
17. Then Saul said to David, “Here is my elder daughter Merab. I will give her to you as your wife on condition that you serve me as a brave and loyal soldier, and fight the Lord's battles.” (Saul was thinking that in this way the Philistines would kill David, and he would not have to do it himself.)
18. David answered, “Who am I and what is my family that I should become the king's son-in-law?”