What is the meaning of 1 Samuel 22:3? From there David went to Mizpeh of Moab • David has just left the cave of Adullam (1 Samuel 22:1–2) and travels east of the Dead Sea to Moab. • The move shows practical wisdom: Saul is hostile, but Moab is outside Saul’s immediate reach (1 Samuel 14:47). • There is a family link—David’s great-grandmother Ruth was a Moabitess (Ruth 1:4; 4:13-22), suggesting Moab might receive him kindly. • Scripture presents this geography as literal history, underscoring God’s providence in guiding David’s steps (Psalm 37:23). Where he said to the king of Moab • David approaches a foreign ruler rather than assuming protection is automatic; he acts with humility and diplomacy (Proverbs 15:1). • Though Saul had fought Moab, the king grants an audience—evidence that God can turn the hearts of leaders for His purposes (Proverbs 21:1). • By recording the conversation, the text emphasizes that David’s words and actions matter to God’s unfolding plan (1 Samuel 16:13). Please let my father and mother stay with you • David honors his parents, obeying the fifth commandment even while on the run (Exodus 20:12). • He places their safety above his own comfort, echoing his earlier care for Jesse (1 Samuel 17:15). • The request shows David’s compassion and responsibility—qualities God later affirms in him as shepherd of Israel (Psalm 78:70-72). • Practical wisdom: Moab offers refuge far from Saul’s reach, sparing David’s family from reprisals (1 Samuel 22:4). Until I learn what God will do for me • David’s focus is not on immediate revenge or self-promotion but on discerning God’s next step (Psalm 25:4-5). • He recognizes that his future is in God’s hands, echoing his later declaration, “My times are in Your hands” (Psalm 31:15). • Waiting on God models biblical patience (Psalm 27:14), contrasting with Saul’s impulsiveness (1 Samuel 13:8-14). • This reliance foreshadows David’s consistent habit of inquiring of the Lord before major decisions (1 Samuel 23:2, 4; 2 Samuel 2:1). summary 1 Samuel 22:3 shows David acting wisely, honorably, and dependently on God. He relocates to Moab for strategic safety, respectfully petitions the Moabite king, safeguards his parents, and commits his uncertain future to the Lord. The verse illustrates God’s providence, David’s obedience to family and divine guidance, and the assurance that God directs those who wait on Him. |
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