David Sought the Lord
ICS Daily Devotions
1 Samuel 23:2-4 (NKJV) Therefore David inquired of the Lord, saying, “Shall I go and attack these Philistines?” And the Lord said to David, “Go and attack the Philistines, and save Keilah.” But David’s men said to him, “Look, we are afraid here in Judah. How much more then if we go to Keilah against the armies of the Philistines?” Then David inquired of the Lord once again. And the Lord answered him and said, “Arise, go down to Keilah. For I will deliver the Philistines into your hand.”
David had a habit of inquiring of the Lord before entering battle or responding to difficult situations. Talking to God was his way of life, and seeking the Lord was always his first step, not a last-minute cry for help. Time in God’s presence was the source of his courage. His confidence did not come from military strength, but from knowing who God is.
Before David attacked Keilah, he sought the Lord’s direction, and God told him to go ahead. When David’s men grew fearful, David inquired of the Lord again. God promised that He would deliver David’s enemies into his hand. This strengthened David’s faith in God and prevented him from being fearful. He trusted that God was with him, God would fight for him and protect them.
After defeating the Philistines, King Saul planned to besiege the city of Keilah. David consulted the Lord, asking, “Will Saul come down…? Will the men of Keilah deliver me and my men into the hand of Saul?” (1 Samuel 23:10,12). God responded: “He will come down… They will deliver you.” (1 Samuel 23:11-12). David then withdrew to avoid being captured. This shows that God offers specific, strategic intelligence.
David didn’t ask vague questions like “What should I do?” but pointed, strategic questions about outcomes (“Will they deliver me?”) and feasibility (“Shall I go and attack these Philistines?”). This shows a relationship in which practical, earthly decisions were brought before a Heavenly Father.
The problem with many of us is that we already have in mind what we want to do or have already done it, and we just want God to bless our plan. However, true seeking requires submitting to God’s plan, even when it contradicts human logic or personal gain.
The Lord told David not to remain in Keilah because the people would hand him over to King Saul. David remained obedient even though God’s answer meant abandoning a city he and his men had just saved by risking their lives. Humanly speaking, it would have been a strategic moment for David to establish himself there and win the loyalty of the people he had just delivered. Yet David wisely sought the Lord rather than assuming their support, and God protected David from being captured by King Saul, allowing him to fulfil his life’s calling.
The same God who spoke to David, Moses, and Joshua would like to speak to you, lead you, and guide you.
Reflection: In what ways are you intentionally seeking to bring your priorities and choices into alignment with God’s will?
Sermon Series： Walking With God
