David’s Plan to Retrieve the Ark David gathered thirty thousand chosen men of Israel to bring up the ark of God from Baalah of Judah, also called Kiriath Jearim. The ark had remained there for twenty years since the Philistines returned it after their disastrous experience with Israel’s sacred chest (1 Samuel 7:1-2). The massive […]
2 Samuel 6 Commentary: Ark Moved, Proper Worship Matters Read Post »
David Becomes King Over All Israel The elders of Israel gathered at Hebron to make a covenant with David. This moment marked the end of civil war and the beginning of Israel’s golden age. Seven years had passed since David ruled only Judah from Hebron. Now all twelve tribes united under his leadership. The tribal
2 Samuel 5 Commentary: David’s Kingship, Philistine Victory Read Post »
Ish-Bosheth’s Fear and Weakness When Ish-Bosheth heard that Abner had died at Hebron, he lost courage and all Israel became alarmed. The death of his military commander left Saul’s son without effective leadership or protection. Abner had been the real power behind Ish-Bosheth’s throne, controlling the army and making political decisions. Fear paralyzed the remnant
2 Samuel 4 Commentary: Ish-Bosheth’s Death, Saul’s End Read Post »
The Long War Between Houses There was a long war between the house of Saul and the house of David. This extended conflict represented more than a simple power struggle; it reflected the spiritual battle between human ambition and divine appointment. The duration of the war demonstrated the persistence of both sides and the complexity
2 Samuel 3 Commentary: Abner’s Defection, Path to Unity Read Post »
David Inquires of the Lord After the period of mourning for Saul and Jonathan, David inquired of the Lord about his next steps. This consultation demonstrates David’s commitment to seeking divine guidance before making major decisions. Unlike his earlier flight to Philistine territory, David now prioritized God’s direction over human reasoning and fear. David asked
2 Samuel 2 Commentary: David’s Anointing, Civil War Begins Read Post »
David’s Return to Ziklag David returned to Ziklag after striking down the Amalekites and rescuing the captives. This return followed his complete victory over the raiders who had burned his city and taken all the women and children captive. The successful rescue operation had restored David’s standing with his men and demonstrated God’s faithfulness to
2 Samuel 1 Commentary: David’s Grief, Saul’s Death Read Post »
The Battle at Mount Gilboa The Philistines fought against Israel on Mount Gilboa, fulfilling the prophetic warning Samuel had delivered to Saul through the witch of Endor. This battle represented the culmination of years of conflict between the two nations. The location of Mount Gilboa provided strategic importance as it controlled access to the Jezreel
1 Samuel 31 Commentary: Saul’s Tragic Death, Dynasty Ends Read Post »
The Devastating Discovery at Ziklag David and his men returned to Ziklag on the third day to find their city burned with fire. The timing of this discovery was particularly cruel. While David had been wrestling with the moral dilemma of potentially fighting against Israel, his own home had been destroyed. The three-day journey back
1 Samuel 30 Commentary: David’s Victory at Ziklag Read Post »
The Philistine Army Assembly The Philistines gathered all their forces at Aphek while Israel encamped by the spring in Jezreel. This geographical detail provides important context for understanding the strategic significance of the impending battle. Aphek was located in the coastal plain, serving as a staging area for Philistine military operations. The spring in Jezreel
1 Samuel 29 Commentary: David’s Deliverance from Battle Read Post »
The Philistine Military Buildup The Philistines gathered their armies for war against Israel. This military mobilization represented the culmination of years of tension between the two nations. The Philistines had been Israel’s primary enemy since the time of the judges. Their superior military technology and organization posed a constant threat to Israel’s survival as a
1 Samuel 28 Commentary: Saul’s Witch, Spiritual Rebellion Read Post »
