READ 1 SAMUEL 27
GO DEEPER
When this chapter begins, David is fleeing from King Saul, who is determined to kill him. Due to the imminent threat, David reflects on his situation and considers, 'The most appropriate course of action for me to take is to _________' (v. 1) [my paraphrase]. One can imagine that David, known as a man after God’s own heart, would likely think along the lines of, 'The best choice is to put my trust in God.' Alternatively, he may ponder, 'The wisest decision is to pray for Saul’s heart to be changed.' However, he concludes, 'The best option for me is to seek refuge in the land of the Philistines.' This decision is quite shocking, as the Philistines were the archenemies of the Israelites. By making this choice, David is essentially turning his back on his own people to seek safety and solace among their adversaries. A younger version of David, who defeated Goliath the Philistine, would certainly be disappointed by such a move.
Saul did not force David to seek safety among Israel's enemies – he lacks that authority. However, David's own feelings of discouragement and hopelessness pushed him to make unexpected choices to escape to Philistine territory. Fear can be a formidable adversary.
Likewise, we may make regrettable choices when we feel hopeless and discouraged. We may seek solace in idleness, alcohol, sexuality, or unhealthy relationships. Various temptations can lead us astray under the guise of providing comfort and security. Instead of succumbing to negativity like David did, we can look to his more positive examples. In another part of his life, he expressed in Psalm 56:2-3, "Mine enemies would daily swallow me up: for they be many that fight against me, O thou most High. What time, I am afraid, I will trust in thee." During our most challenging moments, it is important to rely on God for support. He alone can provide an unfathomable peace, even though others may offer consolation. In times of despair, resist the temptation to give up, and instead seek refuge under the protection of the Almighty.
QUESTIONS
1. What is notable about David in this chapter?
2. Have you observed David's dishonesty in this chapter? What are the risks of becoming complacent with deceit?
3. Where do you seek refuge in actions that do not align with God's will?