1 Samuel 23:9

When David learned that Saul was plotting evil against him, he said to Abiathar the priest, "Bring the ephod."

Study Bible

When David learned
The phrase "When David learned" indicates a moment of revelation and awareness. In the Hebrew text, the word used for "learned" can be understood as "perceived" or "understood," suggesting a deep, intuitive grasp of the situation. David's ability to discern Saul's intentions highlights his wisdom and reliance on God for insight. This moment underscores the importance of spiritual discernment in the life of a believer, reminding us to seek God's guidance in understanding the challenges we face.

that Saul was plotting evil against him
The phrase "that Saul was plotting evil against him" reveals the ongoing conflict between David and Saul. The Hebrew word for "plotting" conveys a sense of devising or scheming, indicating Saul's deliberate intention to harm David. This reflects the broader narrative of Saul's jealousy and fear of David, who was anointed by God to be the next king. The "evil" mentioned here is not just personal animosity but represents opposition to God's plan. This serves as a reminder of the spiritual battles believers face and the need to trust in God's protection and purpose.

he said to Abiathar the priest
David's response to the threat is to seek divine guidance, as indicated by his communication with Abiathar the priest. Abiathar, who escaped the massacre of the priests at Nob, represents a link to the priestly line and the means by which David can inquire of the Lord. This action demonstrates David's reliance on spiritual authority and the importance of seeking God's will through established channels. It highlights the role of spiritual leaders in providing guidance and support in times of crisis.

Bring the ephod
The ephod was a priestly garment associated with seeking God's will, often used in conjunction with the Urim and Thummim, which were tools for divination. By asking for the ephod, David is seeking a direct line to God's guidance. This act of faith underscores the importance of seeking God's direction in decision-making. The ephod symbolizes the believer's access to divine wisdom and the importance of prayer and seeking God's presence in times of uncertainty. It serves as a powerful reminder of the need to prioritize spiritual discernment and reliance on God in all aspects of life.

Persons / Places / Events

1. David
The anointed future king of Israel, currently on the run from King Saul. David is a central figure in this passage, demonstrating reliance on God for guidance.

2. Saul
The current king of Israel, who is consumed by jealousy and fear of David, leading him to plot against David's life.

3. Abiathar the Priest
The son of Ahimelech, who escaped the massacre at Nob and joined David. He serves as a spiritual advisor and intermediary between David and God.

4. The Ephod
A priestly garment used in ancient Israel to inquire of God. It symbolizes seeking divine guidance and direction.

5. Keilah
A city in Judah where David had just delivered the inhabitants from the Philistines, only to learn that Saul was coming to capture him there.

Teaching Points

Seeking Divine Guidance
David's immediate response to Saul's threat was to seek God's guidance through the ephod. In our lives, we should prioritize seeking God's will in times of uncertainty and decision-making.

Reliance on Spiritual Leaders
David's interaction with Abiathar highlights the importance of having godly counsel and spiritual leaders who can help us discern God's direction.

Trust in God's Sovereignty
Despite the threat from Saul, David trusted in God's plan and protection. We are reminded to trust in God's sovereignty, even when circumstances seem dire.

Prayer as a First Response
David's instinct to inquire of the Lord teaches us to make prayer our first response, not our last resort, in times of crisis.

God's Faithfulness in Deliverance
Just as God delivered David from Saul's plots, He is faithful to deliver us from our own trials when we seek Him earnestly.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does David's response to Saul's plot in 1 Samuel 23:9 demonstrate his faith and reliance on God?

2. In what ways can we incorporate the practice of seeking God's guidance in our daily decision-making?

3. How does the role of Abiathar the priest in this passage inform our understanding of the importance of spiritual mentorship and guidance?

4. Reflect on a time when you faced a difficult decision. How did seeking God's guidance impact the outcome?

5. How can the account of David and Saul in 1 Samuel 23 encourage us to trust in God's protection and plan for our lives, even when we face opposition?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Samuel 30:7-8
David again seeks guidance from God through the ephod, showing a pattern of reliance on divine direction.

Exodus 28:30
Describes the Urim and Thummim, which were placed in the breastpiece of the ephod, used for discerning God's will.

Psalm 18:6
David calls upon the Lord in distress, reflecting his consistent practice of seeking God in times of trouble.

Proverbs 3:5-6
Encourages trust in the Lord and seeking His guidance, aligning with David's actions in this passage.