1 Samuel 23 Commentary

David receives urgent news that the people of Keilah are in peril, showing how the anointed king intercedes to guard God's people, thus setting the stage for divine deliverance.

David’s faithful reliance on God saved Keilah from the Philistines.

David’s men hesitate to fight on behalf of Keilah because they are overwhelmed by circumstances, yet God’s sovereign plan encourages believers to press on in obedience.

David faithfully asked for the LORD’s direction and received a clear promise of victory.

David’s victory at Keilah exemplifies God’s faithfulness in using a committed servant to protect and bless His people.

This verse highlights the faithful provision of God, embodied by Abiathar’s courageous decision to bring the ephod to David.

Saul believes he has cornered David once and for all, but the situation only affirms how God’s sovereignty protects His servants despite formidable walls or royal power.

Saul’s willingness to endanger an entire city by sieging Keilah illustrates the depths of his desperation.

David trusts the LORD’s leading more than his own wisdom.

David seeks deliverance from the threat of Saul, and his plea underscores the critical need for Divine guidance in dire circumstances.

David learns from the LORD that King Saul will indeed come to Keilah, which warns him to depart the city and remain vigilant under God’s watchful care.

David demonstrates both dependence and perseverance in the face of betrayal.

Samuel 23:13 describes David and his six hundred men choosing to leave Keilah upon learning that Saul was coming for them, resulting in Saul ceasing his pursuit and God preserving David to be Israel’s future king.

God shielded David from Saul’s grasp.

David is hiding in the wilderness of Ziph when he learns Saul is closing in to kill him.

Jonathan’s courageous act reminds us that selfless encouragement can strengthen a friend’s faith in God despite looming threats.

David will succeed because Jonathan trusts the Lord to fulfill His promise.

David and Jonathan affirm their deep loyalty to one another under God’s watchful guidance.

David endures betrayal but remains under God’s sovereign care.

The Ziphites’ willingness to betray David underscores how easily self-interest can overshadow fidelity to one’s neighbor.

This verse reminds us that even powerful rulers can misuse spiritual language for their own ends, but God ultimately defends those who remain faithful to Him.

David remains out of Saul’s grasp through God’s providence and his own cunning.

These verses emphasize Saul’s relentless pursuit of David and point to God’s ongoing faithfulness to protect His chosen ones.

David flees to the wilderness, but God remains his refuge and strength, even in the driest realms.

David continues to remain in hiding, relying on God’s providence while Saul relentlessly pursues him.

David is nearly undone but providentially spared by divine intervention.

David’s narrow escape reminds us that God can turn any dire situation around for His glory, often at the very last moment.

Saul departed his pursuit of David, thereby preserving David’s life.

David confidently chose to hide in Engedi to secure safety and maintain faithful obedience to God’s plan.