1 Chronicles 11:17

David longed for water and said, "Oh, that someone would get me a drink of water from the well near the gate of Bethlehem!"

Study Bible

David longed for water
This phrase captures a moment of deep yearning and desire. The Hebrew root for "longed" is "אָוָה" (avah), which conveys a strong, intense craving or wish. This longing is not merely physical but also symbolic of a deeper spiritual thirst. David's desire for water can be seen as a metaphor for the soul's longing for God, reminiscent of Psalm 42:1, "As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, my God." In a conservative Christian perspective, this longing reflects the believer's innate desire for communion with God, a thirst that only He can satisfy.

Oh, that someone would get me a drink of water
This expression reveals David's vulnerability and humanity. It is a spontaneous outburst, a wish that seems impossible given the circumstances. The phrase underscores the idea of reliance on others, highlighting the importance of community and fellowship in fulfilling our needs. In the Christian life, this can be seen as a call to serve one another, to be attentive to the needs of our brothers and sisters in Christ, and to act selflessly, as the mighty men did for David.

from the well near the gate of Bethlehem
The well near the gate of Bethlehem holds significant historical and spiritual importance. Bethlehem, known as the "House of Bread," is David's hometown and later the birthplace of Jesus Christ. The well symbolizes life, sustenance, and purity. In ancient times, city gates were places of gathering, judgment, and commerce, making the well a central and strategic location. This reference to Bethlehem foreshadows the coming of the Messiah, who offers living water to all who believe in Him (John 4:10). For conservative Christians, this connection emphasizes God's providential plan and the fulfillment of prophecy through Jesus Christ.

Persons / Places / Events

1. David
The anointed king of Israel, known for his deep faith and leadership. At this point, he is in a stronghold, expressing a longing for water from his hometown.

2. Bethlehem
David's birthplace, a small town in Judah. The well near the gate symbolizes a source of refreshment and nostalgia for David.

3. The Well near the Gate of Bethlehem
Represents a place of personal significance and comfort for David, highlighting his human desires and connection to his roots.

4. The Stronghold
The location where David is staying, likely a place of refuge during a time of conflict with the Philistines.

5. The Philistines
The enemies of Israel, who at this time have a garrison in Bethlehem, making David's longing for water a risky endeavor.

Teaching Points

Longing for Home
David's desire for water from Bethlehem reflects a deep connection to his roots. As believers, we can reflect on our spiritual roots and the longing for our heavenly home.

The Cost of Desire
The account illustrates that fulfilling desires can come at a great cost. We should evaluate our desires and consider their impact on ourselves and others.

Loyalty and Sacrifice
The actions of David's men show profound loyalty and willingness to sacrifice. In our lives, we are called to demonstrate loyalty to God and others, sometimes at personal cost.

Spiritual Thirst
Just as David longed for physical water, we should recognize our spiritual thirst and seek fulfillment in Christ, the living water.

Leadership and Influence
David's expressed desire moved his men to action. As leaders, our words and desires can influence others, and we should be mindful of this responsibility.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does David's longing for water from Bethlehem reveal about his character and priorities?

2. How can we relate David's physical thirst to our own spiritual thirst in today's world?

3. In what ways can we demonstrate loyalty and sacrifice in our relationships, as David's men did for him?

4. How does the concept of "living water" in John 4:13-14 deepen our understanding of spiritual fulfillment?

5. Reflect on a time when your words or desires influenced others. How can you ensure that your influence aligns with God's will?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Samuel 23:13-17
This parallel account provides additional context, describing how three of David's mighty men broke through the Philistine lines to fetch the water, demonstrating loyalty and bravery.

John 4:13-14
Jesus speaks of living water, drawing a spiritual parallel to the physical thirst David experiences, pointing to the deeper spiritual thirst that only Christ can satisfy.

Psalm 42:1-2
David's longing for water can be seen as a metaphor for the soul's thirst for God, similar to the psalmist's yearning for God.