1 Samuel 23:11

Will the citizens of Keilah surrender me into his hand? Will Saul come down, as Your servant has heard? O LORD, God of Israel, please tell Your servant." "He will," said the LORD.

Study Bible

Will the citizens of Keilah surrender me into his hand?
This phrase reflects David's concern about the loyalty of the people of Keilah. The Hebrew root for "surrender" is "סגר" (sagar), which means to shut up or deliver. Historically, Keilah was a fortified city in Judah, and David had just saved it from the Philistines. Despite his recent heroics, David is aware of the political pressures and fears betrayal. This highlights the precariousness of David's situation and the fickle nature of human alliances, reminding us of the need to place our trust in God rather than in man.

Will Saul come down, as Your servant has heard?
David refers to himself as "Your servant," indicating his humility and submission to God's will. The phrase "come down" is from the Hebrew "ירד" (yarad), which often implies descending or moving from a higher place to a lower one. Saul's pursuit of David is relentless, driven by jealousy and fear of losing his throne. This question underscores the tension and danger David faces, as well as his reliance on divine guidance to navigate these threats.

O LORD, God of Israel, please tell Your servant
Here, David addresses God with reverence, using "LORD" (YHWH) and "God of Israel," acknowledging God's sovereignty and covenant relationship with Israel. The plea "please tell" shows David's earnest desire for divine direction. This reflects a deep faith and dependence on God, serving as an example for believers to seek God's wisdom in times of uncertainty and danger.

And the LORD said, 'He will.'
God's response is direct and clear, affirming the impending threat. The certainty of God's word is a reminder of His omniscience and the reliability of His guidance. This assurance, though it confirms danger, also provides David with the knowledge he needs to make informed decisions. It illustrates the importance of seeking and trusting God's counsel, even when it reveals difficult truths.

Persons / Places / Events

1. David
The anointed future king of Israel, currently fleeing from King Saul who seeks to kill him. David is seeking God's guidance in a time of crisis.

2. Saul
The current king of Israel, who is pursuing David out of jealousy and fear of losing his throne.

3. Keilah
A city in Judah that David had just saved from the Philistines. David is concerned about whether the people of Keilah will betray him to Saul.

4. The LORD (Yahweh)
The God of Israel, whom David seeks for guidance and truth in his time of need.

5. Abiathar the Priest
He is with David and has brought the ephod, which David uses to inquire of the LORD.

Teaching Points

Seeking Divine Guidance
David's inquiry of the LORD highlights the importance of seeking God's will in our decisions. In times of uncertainty, we should turn to prayer and Scripture for guidance.

God's Omniscience
The LORD's response to David shows His knowledge of future events. Trusting in God's omniscience can bring peace in uncertain situations.

Faith in Action
David's actions demonstrate faith in God's guidance. We are called to act on the direction God provides, even when it leads us into challenging circumstances.

The Reality of Betrayal
David's concern about Keilah's betrayal reminds us that human loyalty can be fickle. Our ultimate trust should be in God, who is always faithful.

Courage in Leadership
As a leader, David shows courage by seeking God's will and preparing for potential betrayal. Leaders today can learn from his example of reliance on God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does David's approach to seeking God's guidance in 1 Samuel 23:11 challenge or affirm your current practice of decision-making?

2. In what ways can you apply the principle of trusting in God's omniscience in your daily life, especially when facing uncertainty?

3. Reflect on a time when you felt betrayed or let down by others. How can David's experience with Keilah inform your response to such situations?

4. How does David's reliance on God in this passage connect with the teachings of Proverbs 3:5-6, and how can you incorporate this into your life?

5. Consider the role of courage in leadership as demonstrated by David. How can you exhibit similar courage and reliance on God in your areas of influence?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Psalm 54
This Psalm is traditionally linked to the events at Keilah, where David expresses his trust in God amidst betrayal and danger.

1 Samuel 30:8
Another instance where David inquires of the LORD, showing a pattern of seeking divine guidance before making decisions.

Proverbs 3:5-6
Encourages believers to trust in the LORD with all their heart and not lean on their own understanding, similar to David's reliance on God.