bones … Jabesh: This was not where Saul's remains were finally laid to rest (see 2 Samuel 21:12–14).
The end of 1 Samuel returns Israel's history to the time at the end of Judges, when “Israel had no king.” The Philistines were in control again. David had God’s anointing but no crown. He had wives but no sons. His connection with the hated Philistines may have put his standing with his own people at risk. David's future would be difficult. Still, it was clear that God was with him.