DOEG — The Man Who Chose Fear and Cruelty Over Doing What Is Right

Bible Setting: 1 Samuel 21–22

Doeg the Edomite served as the chief shepherd for King Saul. He wasn’t an Israelite, but he lived among them and worked closely with the king.

One day, Doeg saw something important—David visiting the priest Ahimelech at Nob. David was fleeing from Saul, but Ahimelech didn’t know this. Wanting to help, the priest gave David food and the sword of Goliath.

Later, when Saul grew angry and desperate to find David, Doeg spoke up. He told Saul everything he had seen. Instead of protecting the innocent priest or speaking truth with courage, Doeg used the moment to gain favor with the king.

Saul ordered his soldiers to kill the priests of the Lord, but they refused. They knew it was wrong.

Doeg didn’t refuse.

He stepped forward and carried out the terrible command, killing Ahimelech, the other priests, and people of the city. It became one of the darkest moments in Saul’s reign.

Doeg teaches kids that doing what is right matters—even when others are watching or when it feels risky. He reminds us that choosing cruelty, fear, or selfishness hurts innocent people and brings sorrow. His story stands as a warning about the dangers of trying to impress the wrong people.

In The Good Fight card game, Doeg represents fear-driven choices and harmful obedience. When kids face his card, they learn the importance of courage, compassion, and standing up for what is right—even when it’s hard.

Doeg Bible Story - Free Coloring Page!