What does David's inquiry reveal about his relationship with God? Setting the Scene in Keilah • David has just rescued the town of Keilah from the Philistines (1 Samuel 23:1–5). • Saul learns of David’s location and plans to besiege the city. • Abiathar the priest arrives with the ephod, giving David direct access to seek God’s guidance (v. 6). David’s Twofold Question “Then David asked, ‘Will the citizens of Keilah surrender me and my men to Saul?’ ‘They will,’ said the LORD.” (1 Samuel 23:12) A Relationship Characterized by Ongoing Dialogue • This inquiry is not an isolated event; David repeatedly “inquired of the LORD” (23:2, 4; 30:8; 2 Samuel 2:1; 5:19, 23). • His life shows a rhythm of conversation with God rather than occasional crisis prayers. • The pattern mirrors Psalm 25:4–5, where David himself writes, “Show me Your ways, O LORD; teach me Your paths.” Deep Trust in God’s Omniscience • David assumes God knows both present motives and future contingencies. • He seeks specific intelligence only the all-knowing LORD can supply: – Will Saul come? (23:11) – Will the townspeople betray? (23:12) • Proverbs 3:5–6 echoes this trust: “Trust in the LORD with all your heart… He will make your paths straight.” Humility and Submission Before the Lord • David uses servant language—“Your servant has heard…” (23:10). • He submits the destiny of himself and his men to divine decision, refusing to rely on military instinct alone. • Contrast Saul, who consults rumors and human strategies (23:7–8) rather than the LORD. Courage to Act on God’s Word • Upon hearing “They will,” David immediately evacuates Keilah (23:13). • Faith is proved genuine when it moves from prayerful listening to decisive obedience. • Later examples: – 1 Samuel 30:8—pursuit of Amalekites. – 2 Samuel 2:1—relocation to Hebron. Lessons for Today • Build a habit of consulting God before choices, large or small. • Expect clear guidance through Scripture and Spirit as you ask. • Trust God’s foreknowledge, even when His answer defies human logic. • Obey promptly; revelation is given to be acted upon. |
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