“Therefore David inquired of the LORD, saying, Shall I go and smite these Philistines? And the LORD said unto David, Go, and smite the Philistines, and save Keilah.”
Context:To understand the verse better, let’s first establish the context. In 1 Samuel, we find the story of David, who has been anointed by Samuel as the future king of Israel. However, at this point in the narrative, Saul is still the reigning king, and he is pursuing David with the intention of killing him. David is on the run, hiding in various locations.
David’s inquiry:In this verse, we see David seeking guidance from the Lord. He asks whether he should go and attack the Philistines who were oppressing the city of Keilah. David understood the importance of seeking God’s direction before taking any action. He did not rely on his own wisdom but sought divine guidance in every decision.
Trusting in God’s response:David’s inquiry was not in vain. The Lord answered him directly, giving him clear instructions to go and attack the Philistines and save the people of Keilah. David had faith in God’s response and was willing to obey His command.
Lessons to learn:
- Seeking God’s guidance:David’s example teaches us the importance of seeking God’s guidance in our lives. It is essential to inquire of the Lord before making decisions, especially in critical matters. Proverbs 3:5-6 encourages us to trust in the Lord with all our hearts and lean not on our understanding. By seeking God’s guidance, we acknowledge His wisdom and invite Him to lead us in the right path.
- Trusting in God’s response:When we seek God’s guidance, we must have faith in His response. David demonstrated a deep trust in God’s wisdom and guidance. Similarly, we should trust that God will lead us in the best way, even if it may not align with our initial expectations or plans. Proverbs 16:9 reminds us that “The heart of man plans his way, but the LORD establishes his steps.”
- Obedience:David’s immediate response to God’s instruction was to obey. When God directs us, it is crucial to act accordingly. True faith is not just hearing God’s voice but also following through in obedience. James 1:22 reminds us to be doers of the word and not just hearers.
Application:As believers, we can apply this passage by adopting a lifestyle of seeking God’s guidance through prayer, studying His Word, and seeking counsel from mature Christians. We must trust that God will provide the answers and guidance we need, and when He speaks, we should respond in obedience.
Remember that the Bible is rich with wisdom, and it is beneficial to read the surrounding verses and explore the broader context of a passage to gain a deeper understanding of God’s message.
