1 Samuel 23: David’s Courage and Faith While on the Run

The Rev. Warren Woerth, pastor of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Arnold, MO, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study 1 Samuel 23.

David demonstrates his faith and courage as he confronts two enemies: the Philistines and Saul. He obeys God’s call to rescue a city in distress, even though it exposes him to danger. David also follows God’s guidance to evade Saul’s traps, even though it forces him to abandon his friends and allies. Along the way, he receives a visit from his faithful friend Jonathan, who strengthens his trust in God.

The Book of 1 Samuel beings with the unique birth of Samuel, the last judge of Israel. Soon, the people of Israel begin to press upon the aging prophet Samuel to anoint a king over them like the other nations. YHWH assures Samuel that the people are rejecting their God, not Samuel. He advises Samuel to give the people what they want. What follows is the rise and fall of King Saul, the eventual anointing and coronation of David as king, the forerunner of Jesus. It’s a true story of political intrigue and warfare, but it’s also more than that. 1 Samuel shows us God working to save his people from their enemies and even from themselves.