A King Who Gives

In chapters 27 and 29 we saw how David sought refuge from Saul among the Philistines. My interpretation was that David was guilty of leaning on his own understanding rather than seeking God's will (27:1 Pr. 3:5-6). He was living by sight and not by faith. He seemed to forget about God's character, God's past faithfulness, and God's particular promises to him. While at first his scheme seemed to work (27:4), it caused trouble when David was expected to march out into battle with the Philistines against Israel (28:1-2 29:1ff). The LORD, however, delivered him through those among the Philistine rulers who sent him back to his base in Ziklag.

As we come to chapter 30 David's trials intensify. He and his men return only to find their city burned to the ground and all of their families taken captive by the Amalekites. David's men are ready to mutiny. David, in his distress, turns to the LORD (v. 6ff). The LORD directs David, gives him victory, and enables David and his men to recover all that was lost. David then shares the spoils with all of his men, even those who were too tired to join the battle, and with his countrymen in Judah.

David's actions remind us of Christ who fought the LORD's enemy so that we could be recovered. Jesus also, as a result of His victory over sin and death, gives gifts to His people. David's example reminds us of how we can turn to God, even when we have backslidden. David also exemplifies the kind of leader God's people need.