14. David was prospering in all his ways for the Lord was with him.
15. When Saul saw that he was prospering greatly, he dreaded him.
16. But all Israel and Judah loved David, and he went out and came in before them.
17. Then Saul said to David, "Here is my older daughter Merab; I will give her to you as a wife, only be a valiant man for me and fight the Lord's battles." For Saul thought, "My hand shall not be against him, but let the hand of the Philistines be against him."