Day 113, Chronological Bible Study Timeline. Map. Go to today’s Bible reading (use your browser arrow to return): Psalm 86: 1Samuel 27; 28:1-2; 29; 1Chronicles 12:1-7, 19-22
To Fight or Not to Fight?
Boxers fight, families fight, and even friends fight. When is it necessary to fight or avoid it? How can we know?
The Need for Escape
Because of King Saul’s hot pursuit of David, he seeks refuge for himself, his family, his army, and their families. He fears staying in the land of Israel because one day, Saul and his army will find and destroy him. He wonders, what will happen to my family? Will they also be destroyed? What will happen to my men?
Survival
By feigning loyalty, David gains the favor of King Achish. Achish trusts David and says to himself, “He has become so odious to his people, the Israelites, that he will be my servant forever” (1Samuel 27:12, NIV). While we cannot condone lying,
Acts of service and respect can help us survive in hostile environments.
Preservation
During the time of David’s refuge in Ziklag, Israelite warriors from the tribe of Benjamin (Saul’s tribe) defect and join David’s troops (1Chronicles 12:1-7). Soon after that, many generals from the tribe of Manasseh also defect from Saul and join David. Now, he has experienced forces of consideraable size. Their change of loyalty to David must have encouraged him, knowing God still cares about his preservation and would bring him to rule Israel one day.
If the LORD has acted to preserve us, we should give him praise.
Escape
Now that David has gained respect from King Achish, the king wants him and his army to join the Philistine army in a fight against Israel. Achish thinks David is loyal, but unknowingly traps David between a rock and a hard place. David wants to appear loyal, but he doesn't want to fight against his people.
Fortunately, God solves the problem for David by providing a means of escape. Dread fills the hearts of the Philistine commanders as they contemplate the possibility of this celebrated warrior turning against them in the conflict. He could sever their heads to regain King Saul's approval! They talk with the king about their concerns. King Achish reluctantly gives in to their demands and sends David and his soldiers back home to Ziklag.
Sometimes, God provides us with a way to escape.
The Apostle Paul would later write to a church in Corinth,
No temptation has overtaken you but such as is common to man; and God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will provide the way of escape also, so that you will be able to endure it (1Corinthians 10:13, NASB’95).
There was wisdom in escaping the battle; David wouldn’t have to face King Saul, Jonathan, and his countrymen in the conflict. God would have other plans for David’s army, for when he returns home, he must rescue his family and that of his men (more about that in tomorrow’s Bible study).
Focus Verse
1Corinthians 10:13 (NASB’95)
“No temptation has overtaken you but such as is common to man; and God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will provide the way of escape also, so that you will be able to endure it.”
Discussion
What should factor in our decision to fight or not to fight?
If we decide the fight is not worth the price, how might God preserve us? Will that decision make things easier? What should we do?
Write a private prayer response to today’s Bible study:
Please send your comments to me, Rod (the author)
Looking Ahead: After David goes back to Ziklag, Saul and Jonathan and the armies of Israel face the Philistines in battle. Saul wants God's help but because the LORD is silent, Saul seeks help from a witch. Is that okay? Should we seek counsel from God or the Occult? Find out in our next lesson.
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