Topical Encyclopedia IntroductionPrudence, often understood as the ability to govern and discipline oneself through the use of reason, is a virtue that is exemplified in the life of David, the second king of Israel. David's life, as recorded in the Old Testament, provides numerous instances where his prudent actions and decisions reflect his wisdom and reliance on God. This entry explores key moments in David's life where prudence is evident, drawing from the Berean Standard Bible for scriptural references. David's Anointing and Early Life David's prudence is first observed in his anointing by the prophet Samuel. Despite being the youngest son of Jesse and seemingly insignificant in the eyes of his family, David is chosen by God to be king. His prudence is demonstrated in his patience and humility, as he continues to serve Saul and tend to his father's sheep, waiting for God's timing to fulfill the promise of kingship (1 Samuel 16:11-13). David and Goliath One of the most famous episodes in David's life is his encounter with Goliath. David's prudence is evident in his strategic approach to the battle. While others were intimidated by Goliath's size and strength, David relied on his experience as a shepherd and his faith in God. He wisely chose not to wear Saul's armor, which he was not accustomed to, and instead used a sling and stones, tools he was skilled with (1 Samuel 17:38-40). His prudent decision-making led to a decisive victory for Israel. David's Relationship with Saul David's prudence is further highlighted in his relationship with King Saul. Despite Saul's growing jealousy and attempts on David's life, David consistently acted with restraint and respect. On multiple occasions, David had the opportunity to kill Saul but chose not to, recognizing Saul as the Lord's anointed. In 1 Samuel 24:6 , David says, "The LORD forbid that I should do such a thing to my master, the LORD’s anointed, or lift my hand against him; for he is the LORD’s anointed." David's prudence in these situations preserved his integrity and demonstrated his trust in God's justice. David's Reign as King As king, David's prudence is evident in his leadership and governance. He united the tribes of Israel and established Jerusalem as the political and spiritual center of the nation. David's decision to bring the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem (2 Samuel 6:12-15) reflects his understanding of the importance of God's presence and guidance in the life of the nation. His prudence in military campaigns and alliances further solidified Israel's position and prosperity. David's Personal Failures and Repentance While David is celebrated for his prudence, his life also includes moments of failure, most notably his sin with Bathsheba. However, even in his failures, David's prudence is seen in his response. When confronted by the prophet Nathan, David immediately acknowledges his sin and repents (2 Samuel 12:13). His willingness to accept responsibility and seek God's forgiveness demonstrates a prudent heart that values righteousness and restoration. Conclusion David's life, marked by both triumphs and trials, offers a profound example of prudence in action. His ability to navigate complex situations with wisdom, patience, and faith in God serves as a model for believers seeking to live prudently in accordance with God's will. Torrey's Topical Textbook 1 Samuel 16:18Then answered one of the servants, and said, Behold, I have seen a son of Jesse the Bethlehemite, that is cunning in playing, and a mighty valiant man, and a man of war, and prudent in matters, and a comely person, and the LORD is with him. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Psalm 39:1. 1 2 3. First Part. Watchfulness Over the Tongue; Or ... But Upon those who have Used Dissimulation Like David... Psalm 39 Part 1 Watchfulness Over the Tongue; or Prudence and Zeal ... Of David's Reign and Merit; and of his Son Solomon, and that ... How David Reigned Over one Tribe at Hebron While the Son Of The Life of Mr. David Dickson. The Psalms of David The Statute of David for the Sharing of the Spoil A Soul's Tragedy The Hebrew Sages and their Proverbs Resources What does the Bible mean when it tells us to fear not / do not fear? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the “Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God” sermon? | GotQuestions.org What can we learn from the tribe of Issachar? | GotQuestions.org Prudence: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Prudence in Avoiding his Enemies Prudence in Charging Those Who Were Healed not to "Advertise" his Miracles Prudence in Circumcising Timothy Prudence in Performing Temple Rites Prudence in Turning the Jewish Sects Against Each Other Prudence in Walking "No Longer Openly" Prudence of the Wicked: Defeated by God Prudence of the Wicked: Denounced by God Prudence of the Wicked: Fails in Times of Perplexity Prudence of the Wicked: Keeps Them from the Knowledge of the Gospel Prudence of the Wicked: Necessity For-Illustrated Prudence: Abigail, in Averting David's Anger Prudence: Achish, in Dismissing David Prudence: Aged Counsellors of Rehoboam Prudence: Avoiding Suspicion in Administering the Gifts of the Congregations Prudence: Certain Elders of Israel Prudence: David, in his Conduct Toward Saul Prudence: David, in Overthrowing Ahithophel's Shrewd Advice Prudence: Elijah, in his Escape from Jezebel Prudence: Exemplified by Christ Prudence: Exhibited in the Manifestation of God's Grace Prudence: General Scriptures Concerning Prudence: Going to the Feast Secretly Prudence: Intimately Connected With Wisdom Prudence: Jacob, in his Conduct Toward Esau Prudence: Jacob, Toward his Sons, After Dinah's Defilement Prudence: Jehoram, in Suspecting a Syrian Stratagem Prudence: Jethro's Advice to Moses Prudence: Joseph, in his Conduct Toward Mary Prudence: Joseph, in the Affairs of Egypt Prudence: Nehemiah, in Conduct of Affairs at Jerusalem Prudence: Paul and Barnabas, in Escaping Persecution Prudence: Paul and Silas, in Escaping from Berea Prudence: Peter, in Escaping from Herod Agrippa I Prudence: Saints should Especially Exercise, in Their Intercourse With Prudence: Saul, in not Killing the Jabesh-Gileadites Prudence: The Israelites, in the Threatened War With the Two and One-Half Tribes Prudence: The Town Clerk of Ephesus, in Averting a Riot Prudence: The Wise Celebrated For Prudence: The Young should Cultivate Prudence: They Who Have are Preserved by It Prudence: They Who Have: Crowned With Knowledge Prudence: They Who Have: Deal With Knowledge Prudence: They Who Have: Foresee and Avoid Evil Prudence: They Who Have: Get Knowledge Prudence: They Who Have: Keep Silence in the Evil Time Prudence: They Who Have: Look Well to Their Goings Prudence: They Who Have: Not Ostentatious of Knowledge Prudence: They Who Have: Regard Reproof Prudence: They Who Have: Suppress Angry Feelings Prudence: They Who Have: Understand the Ways of God Prudence: They Who Have: Understand Their own Ways Prudence: Virtuous Wives Act With Related Terms |
    |