In a Tight Spot
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David now found himself in a tight spot.
He had led Achish to believe he and his men had fought against Israel rather than the nomadic tribes. Naturally, when war with Israel broke out, Achish expected David to readily agree to take up arms against Saul once again.
“David had no intention of lifting his hand against his people; but he was not certain as to what course he would pursue, until circumstances should indicate his duty. He answered the king evasively, and said, ‘Surely thou shalt know what thy servant can do.’ Achish understood these words as a promise of assistance in the approaching war, and pledged his word to bestow upon David great honor, and give him a high position at the Philistine court.” “David’s faith in God had been strong, but it had failed him when he placed himself under the protection of the Philistines. He had taken this step without seeking the counsel of the Lord; but when he had sought and obtained the favor of the Philistines, it was poor policy to repay their kindness by deception. In the favor they had shown him they had been actuated by selfishness. . . . [They] were glad of an opportunity to separate David’s forces from the army under Saul. They hoped that David would avenge his wrongs by joining them in battle against Saul and Israel.” “Saul had learned that David and his force were with the Philistines, and he expected that the son of Jesse would take this opportunity to revenge the wrongs he had suffered. . . . While he had been engrossed in pursuing David he had neglected the defense of his kingdom.” David had placed himself and his men in a position from which it appeared there was no way out.
To take up arms against his country was not an option.
Neither was failing to honor a pledge to those who had given him sanctuary.
If only he had asked the Lord for instruction! How often we place ourselves in difficult situations by not asking the Lord for guidance.
