Grasp the Gospel — Bible Comprehension Quizzes

1 Samuel 23 Devotional

Strengthened in God

“And David stayed in the wilderness strongholds and in the hill country of the Wilderness of Ziph. Day after day Saul searched for him, but God would not deliver David into his hand.”1 Samuel 23:14 (BSB)

David keeps asking the LORD what to do. When the Philistines raid Keilah, he inquires, and when his frightened men object, he inquires again (23:2-4). God sends him, and Keilah is saved. Then, using the ephod Abiathar has brought, David asks whether the town he just rescued will hand him over to Saul. The LORD says it will (23:10-12). David leaves.

Betrayal follows betrayal. The Ziphites offer to deliver him, and Saul blesses them for their compassion toward him (23:19-21). Day after day Saul searches, but God will not give David into his hand (23:14). When Saul is closing in around a mountain, a messenger arrives with news of a Philistine raid, and Saul turns back (23:26-28). In the middle of it all, Jonathan comes to David at Horesh and encourages him to lean on God, reminding him that he will be king (23:16-17). God guards his servant through timely news and a faithful friend. Sometimes the help he sends is someone who points you back to him.

To think about: Who in your life needs encouragement to lean on God, and how could you offer it this week?

About 1 Samuel 23: David Rescues Keilah and Flees Saul

Guided by the LORD, David saves the town of Keilah from the Philistines, then leaves when God reveals that its people would hand him over to Saul. Jonathan encourages him in God at Horesh, the Ziphites betray his hiding place, and a Philistine raid calls Saul away just as he closes in.

Take the 1 Samuel 23 quiz →Study notes

Get the next chapter and its devotional in your inbox each morning

One short email a day, no account needed. Stop anytime.