1 Samuel 23:13

Then David and his men, about six hundred strong, set out and departed from Keilah, moving from place to place. When Saul was told that David had escaped from Keilah, he declined to go forth.

Study Bible

Then David and his men, about six hundred strong
David's band of followers had grown from the initial group of 400 (1 Samuel 22:2) to about 600, indicating his increasing influence and leadership. This group consisted of those who were in distress, in debt, or discontented, reflecting David's role as a leader for the marginalized. The number 600 is significant in biblical narratives, often symbolizing a complete or substantial group, as seen in other military contexts (e.g., Judges 18:11).

set out and departed from Keilah
Keilah was a fortified city in the lowlands of Judah, which David had just saved from the Philistines (1 Samuel 23:1-5). Despite his victory, David had to leave due to the threat from Saul, highlighting the precariousness of his situation. This departure underscores the theme of David as a fugitive, constantly on the move to evade Saul's pursuit.

moving from place to place
This phrase captures the transient and uncertain nature of David's life during this period. It reflects the broader biblical theme of God's anointed being tested and refined through trials and wanderings, similar to the Israelites in the wilderness. David's movement also foreshadows the itinerant ministry of Jesus, who had "no place to lay his head" (Matthew 8:20).

When Saul was told that David had escaped from Keilah
Saul's pursuit of David is relentless, driven by jealousy and fear of losing his kingdom. This pursuit is a key narrative tension in 1 Samuel, illustrating the conflict between Saul's declining kingship and David's rise as God's chosen leader. Saul's reliance on intelligence reports contrasts with David's reliance on divine guidance, as seen in his consultations with the prophet Gad and the priest Abiathar.

he declined to go forth
Saul's decision not to pursue David further at Keilah shows his strategic calculations and perhaps a recognition of the futility of capturing David, who is under God's protection. This moment highlights Saul's increasing impotence and the divine favor that shields David, reinforcing the theme of God's sovereignty in the rise and fall of leaders.

Persons / Places / Events

1. David
The anointed future king of Israel, currently fleeing from King Saul. David is a central figure in this account, demonstrating leadership and reliance on God.

2. David's Men
Approximately six hundred men who are loyal to David, following him despite the dangers posed by Saul's pursuit.

3. Keilah
A city in Judah that David had previously saved from the Philistines. It becomes a temporary refuge for David and his men.

4. Saul
The current king of Israel, who is seeking to kill David out of jealousy and fear of losing his throne.

5. Escape from Keilah
The event where David, after seeking God's guidance, decides to leave Keilah to avoid being trapped by Saul.

Teaching Points

Seeking God's Guidance
David's decision to leave Keilah was based on divine guidance. We should prioritize seeking God's will in our decisions, especially in times of uncertainty.

Leadership and Responsibility
David's leadership is evident as he takes responsibility for the safety of his men. Effective leaders consider the well-being of those they lead.

Trust in God's Protection
Despite being pursued by Saul, David trusts in God's protection. Believers can find peace in knowing that God is our refuge and strength.

Adaptability in Adversity
David's ability to adapt and move from place to place teaches us the importance of flexibility and resilience in the face of challenges.

Community and Loyalty
The loyalty of David's men highlights the strength found in community and mutual support during difficult times.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does David's reliance on God's guidance in 1 Samuel 23:13 inspire you to seek divine direction in your own life decisions?

2. In what ways can you demonstrate leadership and responsibility in your current roles, as David did with his men?

3. Reflect on a time when you had to adapt to changing circumstances. How can David's example encourage you to trust in God's plan during such times?

4. How does the loyalty of David's men challenge you to build and maintain supportive relationships within your community?

5. Considering the connection to Psalm 54, how can you incorporate prayer and trust in God into your response to personal challenges or threats?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Psalm 54
This psalm is traditionally linked to David's time in the wilderness, reflecting his trust in God for deliverance from enemies.

1 Samuel 22:2
Describes the gathering of David's men, highlighting the growth of his following and the loyalty of those who were distressed, indebted, or discontented.

Proverbs 3:5-6
Encourages trust in the Lord and seeking His guidance, which David exemplifies by inquiring of God before making decisions.

Matthew 10:23
Jesus advises His disciples to flee persecution, similar to David's strategic withdrawal from Keilah to avoid Saul.