“But David inquired of the Lord, saying, Shall I go up to the Philistines? wilt thou deliver them into mine hand? And the Lord said unto David, Go up: for I will doubtless deliver the Philistines into thine hand.”
Historical Context:In 2 Samuel 5, we find David established as the king of Israel. He had recently captured the stronghold of Zion, making it his capital city and renaming it the City of David (Jerusalem). The verse you mentioned occurs during a period when the Philistines, who were longtime adversaries of the Israelites, were gathering to attack David and his kingdom.
David’s Inquiry: When faced with the imminent threat of the Philistines, David sought guidance from the Lord. Instead of relying solely on his own wisdom or military strategy, he turned to God for direction. David’s inquiry shows his dependence on the Lord and his desire to align his plans with God’s will.
Trusting in God’s Answer:In response to David’s inquiry, the Lord assured him of victory over the Philistines. God’s affirmative answer gave David the confidence to engage in battle, knowing that the outcome was in God’s hands. This interaction demonstrates David’s faith and his acknowledgment of God as the ultimate source of strength and deliverance.
Lessons for us:
- Seeking God’s Guidance:David’s example encourages us to seek God’s guidance in our own lives. Rather than relying on our limited understanding, we should approach God with our questions and concerns, seeking His wisdom and direction in making decisions.
- Trusting in God’s Promises:Just as God assured David of victory, He has made promises to His people in His Word. We can trust in His faithfulness and rely on His promises in our own battles and challenges. God’s promises may not always manifest in the way we expect, but we can have confidence that He is working for our ultimate good.
- Dependence on God:David’s reliance on God reminds us of our need to depend on Him in all aspects of life. It’s essential to recognize that our strength and success come from God, not from our own abilities. By acknowledging our dependence on Him, we cultivate humility and a deeper relationship with our Heavenly Father.
In summary, 2 Samuel 5:19 teaches us about seeking God’s guidance, trusting in His promises, and depending on Him for strength and deliverance. It reminds us that, like David, we can approach God with our questions and concerns, knowing that He is faithful to guide and empower us.
