I Samuel 29 - The Philistines Reject David

I Samuel 29

So David arose early, he and his men, to depart in the morning, to return to the land of the Philistines. And the Philistines went up to Jezreel. (verse 11)

Message: The Philistines Reject David

Time: This book is a biography of Samuel's life and career up to his death. It took place over a period of about 110 years, stretching from the closing days of the judges, when Samuel was born (ca. 1120 BC) through the death of Saul (1011 BC).

What the Lord is Saying: I suppose I thought at the end of I Samuel 26 that David and Saul were simply going to go their separate ways. In I Samuel 27, David meet up with Achish and Achish gives David the place of Ziklag to live with his wives and family. David also clears out the land and people in South Judah to make sure no one reports him to Saul it would seem. Then in I Samuel 28, Saul experiences fear about the Philistines and perhaps he has heard of the union Achish and David also have and he really has nothing. David and Achish are conquering places together now. Saul meanwhile consults spirits, alas receiving confirmation that David will be king. 

David can't be on the side of Achish for long though as at some point there may be an attack towards his own people. Those people are still with Saul. As today's passage begins, the Philistines are in Aphek while the Israelites are in Jezreel (verse 1). Achish and David following further back the Philistines (verse 2). The Philistines notice this and confront Achish with the word that David really can't stay with them based upon his history toward the Philistines (verse 3-5). 

Achish tells David, "...return, and go in peace, that you may not displease the lords of the Philistines. (verse 7)" David left and returned to where he had come from rather than continuing in the fight.   

Though God is not mentioned in this passage, I don't think he has to be necessarily. He is still at work and perhaps all of these detours now have been necessary. 

Summary: David is with Achish following the Philistines, but those leaders recognize this and say this can't be good, so David returns to Ziklag. 

Promise: We can be sure that God is working for our benefit even when He seems absent.

Prayer: God, thank you for being present always in my life. Throughout all of life's circumstances you are there. Good times, bad times, easy times, hard times. You are near and I praise You and thank You. Guide my steps Lord. Direct me in the way you have me go. Give me wisdom. Give me grace. 

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