1 Samuel 24:12 - Coke's Commentary on the Holy Bible

The Lord judge, &c.— These words, spoken by David to Saul, when it was in his power to have taken his life, most men will admit, did not imply that David wished or desired that God would revenge him upon Saul, but was a declaration, from the spirit of prophesy, that GOD would do it. But these expressions are so frequent in Scripture, and with such circumstances and aggravations, that many do believe that they are literally intended; and though it has been otherwise enjoined under the Gospel, under the law it was not only the custom and practice of pious men to pray for the conversion, but also for the confusion of wicked and impenitent persons, whose prosperity confirmed men in their unrighteousness, and was a dishonour to God. David, conscious of his innocence, refers his cause to God, the just judge; willing to leave it wholly to his righteous award, and determined not to judge for himself, or execute his vengeance upon his enemy, when he had that enemy in his power: and certainly, whoever will compare the 12th and 15th verses together, will see that the latter is explanatory of the former. The avenging in the one, is the pleading his cause; and delivering him out of Saul's hand, in the other.