1 Samuel 26

1 Samuel 26:1

David Comes to the Camp

David goes, but not without caring for the sheep. He goes because he has received a command from his father.

When he comes close to the camp, everyone is in turmoil, because the army must draw up in battle array. Yet it is nothing more than an outward display because there is only fear for the enemy. The noise can impress someone who knows nothing about battle, but in reality, it means nothing. It is camouflage of the real impotence that prevails.

God’s providence brings David to the army at the right time, as both armies prepare for battle. On both sides one positions oneself in battle array. When David sees all the movement, he hurries. He is aware that something is going to happen and feels that it is important to be there. In his rush to get there he makes sure his baggage is in safe hands. Before he does anything else, he complies with his father’s request and asks his brothers about their prosperity. While he is speaking with them, Goliath appears and makes his roaring language heard. It is remarkable that it says that David hears the words of the Philistine (1 Samuel 17:23). The Lord also hears all the careless, useless, words that people speak and will judge them on that basis (Matthew 12:36-37).

All the men of Israel also see the Philistine and hear what he says. The appearance of the giant frightens the whole army to death, and they flee. All the men of Israel are still afraid, even though Goliath has been doing it for so many days. They do not get used to it. This is because they do not trust in God and He must therefore leave them and leave them to themselves (cf. Deuteronomy 32:30).

David is an exception. He is not afraid because he knows that the LORD is with him. He is rightly a man of whom we can say he is skilled in his work and therefore on the way to promotion. He will be put in the service of the king (Proverbs 22:29).

1 Samuel 26:2

The Reward That Saul Promises

The Israelites talk to each other about whether they have seen the giant. There is no thought of God in them. They also talk about Goliath defying Israel. They do not think of the fact that he defies God. Another topic of conversation is Saul’s promise that whoever will defeat the Philistine will receive a reward. In fact, three rewards are involved: great wealth, getting Saul’s daughter to be his wife and thus becoming son-in-law of the king, and being free from all charges, like taxes and conscription, for all who belong to him.

Here we see a picture of the reward the Lord Jesus received for defeating the enemy, the devil. What Saul promises, the Lord Jesus received from God: great riches, i.e. all power in heaven and on earth and a bride, the church. Also, all His family are free from all charges: they are in the freedom of God’s children, they are free from the law.

David asks once more about the reward for defeating the Philistine. He is, as it were, surprised at such a great reward for such a, in his eyes, the eyes of faith, so simple thing. The reason for David’s calm is clear. He does not measure the giant against himself, but he understands that it is a matter between the Philistine and God.

His words about the Philistine show that he speaks of him with contempt. David’s concern is not with the reward, but with the reproach that is done to the LORD. He speaks of the army of Israel as “the armies of the living God”. It is also the fight of “the living God”, an expression that contrasts God with the false and dead idols (1 Thessalonians 1:9). Faith does not see the enemy against the insignificant man, but against the almighty God.

1 Samuel 26:3

The Reward That Saul Promises

The Israelites talk to each other about whether they have seen the giant. There is no thought of God in them. They also talk about Goliath defying Israel. They do not think of the fact that he defies God. Another topic of conversation is Saul’s promise that whoever will defeat the Philistine will receive a reward. In fact, three rewards are involved: great wealth, getting Saul’s daughter to be his wife and thus becoming son-in-law of the king, and being free from all charges, like taxes and conscription, for all who belong to him.

Here we see a picture of the reward the Lord Jesus received for defeating the enemy, the devil. What Saul promises, the Lord Jesus received from God: great riches, i.e. all power in heaven and on earth and a bride, the church. Also, all His family are free from all charges: they are in the freedom of God’s children, they are free from the law.

David asks once more about the reward for defeating the Philistine. He is, as it were, surprised at such a great reward for such a, in his eyes, the eyes of faith, so simple thing. The reason for David’s calm is clear. He does not measure the giant against himself, but he understands that it is a matter between the Philistine and God.

His words about the Philistine show that he speaks of him with contempt. David’s concern is not with the reward, but with the reproach that is done to the LORD. He speaks of the army of Israel as “the armies of the living God”. It is also the fight of “the living God”, an expression that contrasts God with the false and dead idols (1 Thessalonians 1:9). Faith does not see the enemy against the insignificant man, but against the almighty God.

1 Samuel 26:4

The Reward That Saul Promises

The Israelites talk to each other about whether they have seen the giant. There is no thought of God in them. They also talk about Goliath defying Israel. They do not think of the fact that he defies God. Another topic of conversation is Saul’s promise that whoever will defeat the Philistine will receive a reward. In fact, three rewards are involved: great wealth, getting Saul’s daughter to be his wife and thus becoming son-in-law of the king, and being free from all charges, like taxes and conscription, for all who belong to him.

Here we see a picture of the reward the Lord Jesus received for defeating the enemy, the devil. What Saul promises, the Lord Jesus received from God: great riches, i.e. all power in heaven and on earth and a bride, the church. Also, all His family are free from all charges: they are in the freedom of God’s children, they are free from the law.

David asks once more about the reward for defeating the Philistine. He is, as it were, surprised at such a great reward for such a, in his eyes, the eyes of faith, so simple thing. The reason for David’s calm is clear. He does not measure the giant against himself, but he understands that it is a matter between the Philistine and God.

His words about the Philistine show that he speaks of him with contempt. David’s concern is not with the reward, but with the reproach that is done to the LORD. He speaks of the army of Israel as “the armies of the living God”. It is also the fight of “the living God”, an expression that contrasts God with the false and dead idols (1 Thessalonians 1:9). Faith does not see the enemy against the insignificant man, but against the almighty God.

1 Samuel 26:5

David Arouses the Anger of Eliab

When Eliab hears what his youngest brother says, his anger burns. He accuses David of sensationalism, that he only comes to see the battle. That’s a bit exaggerated, because there is no battle at all. That is why Eliab’s reaction is also very unfair. The reaction can be explained logically because David’s words are an accusation of the whole army. Then the only reaction is to scoff, to scorn the comments made.

This leads to false statements and accusations. Eliab skims about the flock and doubts that David has made sure that the sheep are safe during his absence. He is not aware that he treats the deliverer with contempt.

The flock does not seem to have been large. Eliab talks about “those few sheep”. This makes it clear that David is faithful in the small and insignificant and that therefore the LORD can entrust him more. Faith that relies on God cannot prove to unbelief that nothing of the accusations is true. Therefore David does not defend himself. He resembles the Lord Jesus Who also reacted like that on accusations of the leaders (1 Peter 2:23a).

The anointing of David will not have made much of an impression on Eliab. Little was said and he will not have understood its meaning. For him at least David is not the future king, but a younger little brother who is curious. The outburst of anger of David’s brother does not make David give up. He quietly goes through the camp and informs everywhere. This is how it becomes known that there is a man of faith walking around in the camp who, in simple confidence, testifies that there is a God in Israel.

1 Samuel 26:6

David Arouses the Anger of Eliab

When Eliab hears what his youngest brother says, his anger burns. He accuses David of sensationalism, that he only comes to see the battle. That’s a bit exaggerated, because there is no battle at all. That is why Eliab’s reaction is also very unfair. The reaction can be explained logically because David’s words are an accusation of the whole army. Then the only reaction is to scoff, to scorn the comments made.

This leads to false statements and accusations. Eliab skims about the flock and doubts that David has made sure that the sheep are safe during his absence. He is not aware that he treats the deliverer with contempt.

The flock does not seem to have been large. Eliab talks about “those few sheep”. This makes it clear that David is faithful in the small and insignificant and that therefore the LORD can entrust him more. Faith that relies on God cannot prove to unbelief that nothing of the accusations is true. Therefore David does not defend himself. He resembles the Lord Jesus Who also reacted like that on accusations of the leaders (1 Peter 2:23a).

The anointing of David will not have made much of an impression on Eliab. Little was said and he will not have understood its meaning. For him at least David is not the future king, but a younger little brother who is curious. The outburst of anger of David’s brother does not make David give up. He quietly goes through the camp and informs everywhere. This is how it becomes known that there is a man of faith walking around in the camp who, in simple confidence, testifies that there is a God in Israel.

1 Samuel 26:7

David Arouses the Anger of Eliab

When Eliab hears what his youngest brother says, his anger burns. He accuses David of sensationalism, that he only comes to see the battle. That’s a bit exaggerated, because there is no battle at all. That is why Eliab’s reaction is also very unfair. The reaction can be explained logically because David’s words are an accusation of the whole army. Then the only reaction is to scoff, to scorn the comments made.

This leads to false statements and accusations. Eliab skims about the flock and doubts that David has made sure that the sheep are safe during his absence. He is not aware that he treats the deliverer with contempt.

The flock does not seem to have been large. Eliab talks about “those few sheep”. This makes it clear that David is faithful in the small and insignificant and that therefore the LORD can entrust him more. Faith that relies on God cannot prove to unbelief that nothing of the accusations is true. Therefore David does not defend himself. He resembles the Lord Jesus Who also reacted like that on accusations of the leaders (1 Peter 2:23a).

The anointing of David will not have made much of an impression on Eliab. Little was said and he will not have understood its meaning. For him at least David is not the future king, but a younger little brother who is curious. The outburst of anger of David’s brother does not make David give up. He quietly goes through the camp and informs everywhere. This is how it becomes known that there is a man of faith walking around in the camp who, in simple confidence, testifies that there is a God in Israel.

1 Samuel 26:8

David Says He Will Defeat Goliath

The words David speaks also reach Saul’s ear. David has made himself known through his words. These are words of faith. This is how the news becomes known that there is someone who is not affected by what the Philistine blares. When David has come to Saul, he repeats the language of faith. David does not yet speak directly about the LORD. He has the right characteristics to be able to speak in this way, without mentioning the Name of the LORD. It will be clear from his actions that he only relies on the LORD.

David is not satisfied with not having any fear personally but he wants to encourage everyone to have the same security. He wants to fill all with the same trust he possesses. In this is expressed his deep connection both with the LORD and with His people.

Saul’s reaction is the language of sober perception, without faith. Therefore Saul does not understand what David says. He has no eye for the power source available to David. David not only says what he intends, but also that he has already proven to fight with and defeat enemies. It is not the first time he is fighting with an enemy. He knows what it is like to put his life at risk for the defenseless. The people are the flock of God and David will put his life at risk for them.

The Lord Jesus not only promised to give His life, but He also gave it. He also first overcame satan in the secret of temptation in the wilderness (Matthew 4:1-11). Then He gained the open victory over him on and through the cross (Colossians 2:15). David is a picture of the Lord Jesus Who could say that He kept the sheep in the Name of the Father (John 17:12a). Therefore, when they come to take Him prisoner, He says: “if you seek Me, let these go their way” (John 18:8).

When David tells Saul of his victories, he does not speak of the power of the LORD. Yet he understands he has been given the power of the LORD for it and he says so now. He counts on God’s faithfulness to Israel in all circumstances. He knows that he is God’s object of care, for that is how faith always reasons. He is God’s object of interest, even more so because his only desire is to maintain the glory of the LORD. Saul reacts with a pious wish that the LORD will be with David. Unfortunately, this desire is not the language of his heart.

1 Samuel 26:9

David Says He Will Defeat Goliath

The words David speaks also reach Saul’s ear. David has made himself known through his words. These are words of faith. This is how the news becomes known that there is someone who is not affected by what the Philistine blares. When David has come to Saul, he repeats the language of faith. David does not yet speak directly about the LORD. He has the right characteristics to be able to speak in this way, without mentioning the Name of the LORD. It will be clear from his actions that he only relies on the LORD.

David is not satisfied with not having any fear personally but he wants to encourage everyone to have the same security. He wants to fill all with the same trust he possesses. In this is expressed his deep connection both with the LORD and with His people.

Saul’s reaction is the language of sober perception, without faith. Therefore Saul does not understand what David says. He has no eye for the power source available to David. David not only says what he intends, but also that he has already proven to fight with and defeat enemies. It is not the first time he is fighting with an enemy. He knows what it is like to put his life at risk for the defenseless. The people are the flock of God and David will put his life at risk for them.

The Lord Jesus not only promised to give His life, but He also gave it. He also first overcame satan in the secret of temptation in the wilderness (Matthew 4:1-11). Then He gained the open victory over him on and through the cross (Colossians 2:15). David is a picture of the Lord Jesus Who could say that He kept the sheep in the Name of the Father (John 17:12a). Therefore, when they come to take Him prisoner, He says: “if you seek Me, let these go their way” (John 18:8).

When David tells Saul of his victories, he does not speak of the power of the LORD. Yet he understands he has been given the power of the LORD for it and he says so now. He counts on God’s faithfulness to Israel in all circumstances. He knows that he is God’s object of care, for that is how faith always reasons. He is God’s object of interest, even more so because his only desire is to maintain the glory of the LORD. Saul reacts with a pious wish that the LORD will be with David. Unfortunately, this desire is not the language of his heart.

1 Samuel 26:10

David Says He Will Defeat Goliath

The words David speaks also reach Saul’s ear. David has made himself known through his words. These are words of faith. This is how the news becomes known that there is someone who is not affected by what the Philistine blares. When David has come to Saul, he repeats the language of faith. David does not yet speak directly about the LORD. He has the right characteristics to be able to speak in this way, without mentioning the Name of the LORD. It will be clear from his actions that he only relies on the LORD.

David is not satisfied with not having any fear personally but he wants to encourage everyone to have the same security. He wants to fill all with the same trust he possesses. In this is expressed his deep connection both with the LORD and with His people.

Saul’s reaction is the language of sober perception, without faith. Therefore Saul does not understand what David says. He has no eye for the power source available to David. David not only says what he intends, but also that he has already proven to fight with and defeat enemies. It is not the first time he is fighting with an enemy. He knows what it is like to put his life at risk for the defenseless. The people are the flock of God and David will put his life at risk for them.

The Lord Jesus not only promised to give His life, but He also gave it. He also first overcame satan in the secret of temptation in the wilderness (Matthew 4:1-11). Then He gained the open victory over him on and through the cross (Colossians 2:15). David is a picture of the Lord Jesus Who could say that He kept the sheep in the Name of the Father (John 17:12a). Therefore, when they come to take Him prisoner, He says: “if you seek Me, let these go their way” (John 18:8).

When David tells Saul of his victories, he does not speak of the power of the LORD. Yet he understands he has been given the power of the LORD for it and he says so now. He counts on God’s faithfulness to Israel in all circumstances. He knows that he is God’s object of care, for that is how faith always reasons. He is God’s object of interest, even more so because his only desire is to maintain the glory of the LORD. Saul reacts with a pious wish that the LORD will be with David. Unfortunately, this desire is not the language of his heart.

1 Samuel 26:11

David Says He Will Defeat Goliath

The words David speaks also reach Saul’s ear. David has made himself known through his words. These are words of faith. This is how the news becomes known that there is someone who is not affected by what the Philistine blares. When David has come to Saul, he repeats the language of faith. David does not yet speak directly about the LORD. He has the right characteristics to be able to speak in this way, without mentioning the Name of the LORD. It will be clear from his actions that he only relies on the LORD.

David is not satisfied with not having any fear personally but he wants to encourage everyone to have the same security. He wants to fill all with the same trust he possesses. In this is expressed his deep connection both with the LORD and with His people.

Saul’s reaction is the language of sober perception, without faith. Therefore Saul does not understand what David says. He has no eye for the power source available to David. David not only says what he intends, but also that he has already proven to fight with and defeat enemies. It is not the first time he is fighting with an enemy. He knows what it is like to put his life at risk for the defenseless. The people are the flock of God and David will put his life at risk for them.

The Lord Jesus not only promised to give His life, but He also gave it. He also first overcame satan in the secret of temptation in the wilderness (Matthew 4:1-11). Then He gained the open victory over him on and through the cross (Colossians 2:15). David is a picture of the Lord Jesus Who could say that He kept the sheep in the Name of the Father (John 17:12a). Therefore, when they come to take Him prisoner, He says: “if you seek Me, let these go their way” (John 18:8).

When David tells Saul of his victories, he does not speak of the power of the LORD. Yet he understands he has been given the power of the LORD for it and he says so now. He counts on God’s faithfulness to Israel in all circumstances. He knows that he is God’s object of care, for that is how faith always reasons. He is God’s object of interest, even more so because his only desire is to maintain the glory of the LORD. Saul reacts with a pious wish that the LORD will be with David. Unfortunately, this desire is not the language of his heart.

1 Samuel 26:12

David Says He Will Defeat Goliath

The words David speaks also reach Saul’s ear. David has made himself known through his words. These are words of faith. This is how the news becomes known that there is someone who is not affected by what the Philistine blares. When David has come to Saul, he repeats the language of faith. David does not yet speak directly about the LORD. He has the right characteristics to be able to speak in this way, without mentioning the Name of the LORD. It will be clear from his actions that he only relies on the LORD.

David is not satisfied with not having any fear personally but he wants to encourage everyone to have the same security. He wants to fill all with the same trust he possesses. In this is expressed his deep connection both with the LORD and with His people.

Saul’s reaction is the language of sober perception, without faith. Therefore Saul does not understand what David says. He has no eye for the power source available to David. David not only says what he intends, but also that he has already proven to fight with and defeat enemies. It is not the first time he is fighting with an enemy. He knows what it is like to put his life at risk for the defenseless. The people are the flock of God and David will put his life at risk for them.

The Lord Jesus not only promised to give His life, but He also gave it. He also first overcame satan in the secret of temptation in the wilderness (Matthew 4:1-11). Then He gained the open victory over him on and through the cross (Colossians 2:15). David is a picture of the Lord Jesus Who could say that He kept the sheep in the Name of the Father (John 17:12a). Therefore, when they come to take Him prisoner, He says: “if you seek Me, let these go their way” (John 18:8).

When David tells Saul of his victories, he does not speak of the power of the LORD. Yet he understands he has been given the power of the LORD for it and he says so now. He counts on God’s faithfulness to Israel in all circumstances. He knows that he is God’s object of care, for that is how faith always reasons. He is God’s object of interest, even more so because his only desire is to maintain the glory of the LORD. Saul reacts with a pious wish that the LORD will be with David. Unfortunately, this desire is not the language of his heart.

1 Samuel 26:13

David Says He Will Defeat Goliath

The words David speaks also reach Saul’s ear. David has made himself known through his words. These are words of faith. This is how the news becomes known that there is someone who is not affected by what the Philistine blares. When David has come to Saul, he repeats the language of faith. David does not yet speak directly about the LORD. He has the right characteristics to be able to speak in this way, without mentioning the Name of the LORD. It will be clear from his actions that he only relies on the LORD.

David is not satisfied with not having any fear personally but he wants to encourage everyone to have the same security. He wants to fill all with the same trust he possesses. In this is expressed his deep connection both with the LORD and with His people.

Saul’s reaction is the language of sober perception, without faith. Therefore Saul does not understand what David says. He has no eye for the power source available to David. David not only says what he intends, but also that he has already proven to fight with and defeat enemies. It is not the first time he is fighting with an enemy. He knows what it is like to put his life at risk for the defenseless. The people are the flock of God and David will put his life at risk for them.

The Lord Jesus not only promised to give His life, but He also gave it. He also first overcame satan in the secret of temptation in the wilderness (Matthew 4:1-11). Then He gained the open victory over him on and through the cross (Colossians 2:15). David is a picture of the Lord Jesus Who could say that He kept the sheep in the Name of the Father (John 17:12a). Therefore, when they come to take Him prisoner, He says: “if you seek Me, let these go their way” (John 18:8).

When David tells Saul of his victories, he does not speak of the power of the LORD. Yet he understands he has been given the power of the LORD for it and he says so now. He counts on God’s faithfulness to Israel in all circumstances. He knows that he is God’s object of care, for that is how faith always reasons. He is God’s object of interest, even more so because his only desire is to maintain the glory of the LORD. Saul reacts with a pious wish that the LORD will be with David. Unfortunately, this desire is not the language of his heart.

1 Samuel 26:14

David Says He Will Defeat Goliath

The words David speaks also reach Saul’s ear. David has made himself known through his words. These are words of faith. This is how the news becomes known that there is someone who is not affected by what the Philistine blares. When David has come to Saul, he repeats the language of faith. David does not yet speak directly about the LORD. He has the right characteristics to be able to speak in this way, without mentioning the Name of the LORD. It will be clear from his actions that he only relies on the LORD.

David is not satisfied with not having any fear personally but he wants to encourage everyone to have the same security. He wants to fill all with the same trust he possesses. In this is expressed his deep connection both with the LORD and with His people.

Saul’s reaction is the language of sober perception, without faith. Therefore Saul does not understand what David says. He has no eye for the power source available to David. David not only says what he intends, but also that he has already proven to fight with and defeat enemies. It is not the first time he is fighting with an enemy. He knows what it is like to put his life at risk for the defenseless. The people are the flock of God and David will put his life at risk for them.

The Lord Jesus not only promised to give His life, but He also gave it. He also first overcame satan in the secret of temptation in the wilderness (Matthew 4:1-11). Then He gained the open victory over him on and through the cross (Colossians 2:15). David is a picture of the Lord Jesus Who could say that He kept the sheep in the Name of the Father (John 17:12a). Therefore, when they come to take Him prisoner, He says: “if you seek Me, let these go their way” (John 18:8).

When David tells Saul of his victories, he does not speak of the power of the LORD. Yet he understands he has been given the power of the LORD for it and he says so now. He counts on God’s faithfulness to Israel in all circumstances. He knows that he is God’s object of care, for that is how faith always reasons. He is God’s object of interest, even more so because his only desire is to maintain the glory of the LORD. Saul reacts with a pious wish that the LORD will be with David. Unfortunately, this desire is not the language of his heart.

1 Samuel 26:15

The Armor of Saul and of David

Saul said, “may the LORD be with you”, but he does the opposite by providing David with his armor. This is a great trial for David, but he appears to be able to withstand it. If David had won the victory in Saul’s armor, the honor would have gone to Saul. The victory would have been attributed to his armor. However, the victory must be entirely the victory of the LORD.

When David has put on the armor, it turns out he cannot go in it. What did the armor mean for Saul himself? He did not gain in it the victory over Goliath either, did he? Saul’s armor is no more than a variant of Goliath’s armor.

We can compare David’s taking off Saul’s armor with the means Paul used to put the Corinthians on the right track. Paul did not use persuasive language of human wisdom when he came to the Corinthians. He renounced it, so that their faith might not be in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God. Thus David abandons all human means to go alone in trust in God. All human additions to spiritual power would, in the event of a result, only be fame for the flesh.

That does not mean that David will fight with his bare hands. He is looking for tools. Only he does this in dependence on the LORD. He knows that his aids only benefit if the LORD blesses their use. David’s tools in this battle are no different than those he used as shepherd. A shepherd goes to war.

He is looking for five smooth stones from the brook. Smooth stones have become smooth because of the flowing water. The flowing water is a picture of the Word of God that is applied by the Spirit to heart and conscience. The stones are a picture of the words from the Word of God. If we occupy ourselves with the living water of the Word of God, so that we may know it, the Spirit of God will be able to give us verses from it that we can use in the battle against the enemy.

David takes five stones with him, even though he needs only one. This shows that he is aware of his responsibility. Five is the number of responsibility. Nor does he sling in the wild, he aims well (cf. Judges 20:16), while at the same time he knows that the victory is from the LORD.

1 Samuel 26:16

The Armor of Saul and of David

Saul said, “may the LORD be with you”, but he does the opposite by providing David with his armor. This is a great trial for David, but he appears to be able to withstand it. If David had won the victory in Saul’s armor, the honor would have gone to Saul. The victory would have been attributed to his armor. However, the victory must be entirely the victory of the LORD.

When David has put on the armor, it turns out he cannot go in it. What did the armor mean for Saul himself? He did not gain in it the victory over Goliath either, did he? Saul’s armor is no more than a variant of Goliath’s armor.

We can compare David’s taking off Saul’s armor with the means Paul used to put the Corinthians on the right track. Paul did not use persuasive language of human wisdom when he came to the Corinthians. He renounced it, so that their faith might not be in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God. Thus David abandons all human means to go alone in trust in God. All human additions to spiritual power would, in the event of a result, only be fame for the flesh.

That does not mean that David will fight with his bare hands. He is looking for tools. Only he does this in dependence on the LORD. He knows that his aids only benefit if the LORD blesses their use. David’s tools in this battle are no different than those he used as shepherd. A shepherd goes to war.

He is looking for five smooth stones from the brook. Smooth stones have become smooth because of the flowing water. The flowing water is a picture of the Word of God that is applied by the Spirit to heart and conscience. The stones are a picture of the words from the Word of God. If we occupy ourselves with the living water of the Word of God, so that we may know it, the Spirit of God will be able to give us verses from it that we can use in the battle against the enemy.

David takes five stones with him, even though he needs only one. This shows that he is aware of his responsibility. Five is the number of responsibility. Nor does he sling in the wild, he aims well (cf. Judges 20:16), while at the same time he knows that the victory is from the LORD.

1 Samuel 26:17

The Armor of Saul and of David

Saul said, “may the LORD be with you”, but he does the opposite by providing David with his armor. This is a great trial for David, but he appears to be able to withstand it. If David had won the victory in Saul’s armor, the honor would have gone to Saul. The victory would have been attributed to his armor. However, the victory must be entirely the victory of the LORD.

When David has put on the armor, it turns out he cannot go in it. What did the armor mean for Saul himself? He did not gain in it the victory over Goliath either, did he? Saul’s armor is no more than a variant of Goliath’s armor.

We can compare David’s taking off Saul’s armor with the means Paul used to put the Corinthians on the right track. Paul did not use persuasive language of human wisdom when he came to the Corinthians. He renounced it, so that their faith might not be in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God. Thus David abandons all human means to go alone in trust in God. All human additions to spiritual power would, in the event of a result, only be fame for the flesh.

That does not mean that David will fight with his bare hands. He is looking for tools. Only he does this in dependence on the LORD. He knows that his aids only benefit if the LORD blesses their use. David’s tools in this battle are no different than those he used as shepherd. A shepherd goes to war.

He is looking for five smooth stones from the brook. Smooth stones have become smooth because of the flowing water. The flowing water is a picture of the Word of God that is applied by the Spirit to heart and conscience. The stones are a picture of the words from the Word of God. If we occupy ourselves with the living water of the Word of God, so that we may know it, the Spirit of God will be able to give us verses from it that we can use in the battle against the enemy.

David takes five stones with him, even though he needs only one. This shows that he is aware of his responsibility. Five is the number of responsibility. Nor does he sling in the wild, he aims well (cf. Judges 20:16), while at the same time he knows that the victory is from the LORD.

1 Samuel 26:18

The Philistine Despises David

Goliath’s amazement is great when he sees David. He experiences it as a great insult that a boy, without armor and weapons, seemingly helpless, comes up to him to fight against him. The curses descend upon David, slung from the big mouth of a demonic man.

The weakness of the cross of the Lord Jesus is the victory over satan. Satan is overcome by His humiliation to death. To be defeated by the cross has been unthinkable for the devil and it is still for many today. Yet the foolishness of the cross is the only way to salvation.

1 Samuel 26:19

The Philistine Despises David

Goliath’s amazement is great when he sees David. He experiences it as a great insult that a boy, without armor and weapons, seemingly helpless, comes up to him to fight against him. The curses descend upon David, slung from the big mouth of a demonic man.

The weakness of the cross of the Lord Jesus is the victory over satan. Satan is overcome by His humiliation to death. To be defeated by the cross has been unthinkable for the devil and it is still for many today. Yet the foolishness of the cross is the only way to salvation.

1 Samuel 26:20

The Philistine Despises David

Goliath’s amazement is great when he sees David. He experiences it as a great insult that a boy, without armor and weapons, seemingly helpless, comes up to him to fight against him. The curses descend upon David, slung from the big mouth of a demonic man.

The weakness of the cross of the Lord Jesus is the victory over satan. Satan is overcome by His humiliation to death. To be defeated by the cross has been unthinkable for the devil and it is still for many today. Yet the foolishness of the cross is the only way to salvation.

1 Samuel 26:21

The Philistine Despises David

Goliath’s amazement is great when he sees David. He experiences it as a great insult that a boy, without armor and weapons, seemingly helpless, comes up to him to fight against him. The curses descend upon David, slung from the big mouth of a demonic man.

The weakness of the cross of the Lord Jesus is the victory over satan. Satan is overcome by His humiliation to death. To be defeated by the cross has been unthinkable for the devil and it is still for many today. Yet the foolishness of the cross is the only way to salvation.

1 Samuel 26:22

The Creed of David

David is not impressed by the giant’s roaring language. He goes down to him because this Philistine has taunted the living God. In full certainty of faith, in full trust in God, David goes down to Goliath. He lists all the mighty weapons the giant has. He is not blind to that, but he does not concentrate exclusively at it, for he knows in Whose Name he meets the giant. Against the LORD, Goliath’s weapons are completely insignificant. What Goliath expects from his weapons, David expects from the inexpressible glorious Name of the LORD.

In the most powerful language of faith, David accuses Goliath of taunting the LORD. This is the ground of his condemnation, and David shall execute the sentence. The LORD shall deliver him into the hand of David, that David may remove the head of the enemy. This means the complete settlement of the enemy, so that every force is vanished and irreversible lost. And not only Goliath will become a dead body, the same will happen to all who have taken his side. They will all become food of the animals. A dignified burial will not be there.

Faith has no difficulties and sees clearly in the hour of danger in accordance with God. It sees from the beginning the end. There is faith, a faith that gives strength and forgets itself. David is a young man, but a greater veteran on the path and in the battle of faith than anyone else in the army of Israel.

“That all the earth may know that there is a God in Israel” and not that such a great guy as David has achieved a great victory. This goes beyond personal faith, although this first must be present. He knows that the battle he fights is the battle of God. He does not fight for himself, but for the people. Therefore he says that God gives Goliath into “our” hands.

Once the world will see it and know that there is a God Who has everything in His hands. This is a word for “all this assembly”, for all who are witnesses of the battle. Proof is shown that God does not deliver by sword or by spear, but by weakness relying on Him. Therefore, only to Him can be attributed the full victory. These are lessons of trust in God and of mistrust of ourselves (1 Samuel 14:6; Exodus 14:13-18; Judges 7:2; 4; Judges 7:7; Psalms 44:5-7).

1 Samuel 26:23

The Creed of David

David is not impressed by the giant’s roaring language. He goes down to him because this Philistine has taunted the living God. In full certainty of faith, in full trust in God, David goes down to Goliath. He lists all the mighty weapons the giant has. He is not blind to that, but he does not concentrate exclusively at it, for he knows in Whose Name he meets the giant. Against the LORD, Goliath’s weapons are completely insignificant. What Goliath expects from his weapons, David expects from the inexpressible glorious Name of the LORD.

In the most powerful language of faith, David accuses Goliath of taunting the LORD. This is the ground of his condemnation, and David shall execute the sentence. The LORD shall deliver him into the hand of David, that David may remove the head of the enemy. This means the complete settlement of the enemy, so that every force is vanished and irreversible lost. And not only Goliath will become a dead body, the same will happen to all who have taken his side. They will all become food of the animals. A dignified burial will not be there.

Faith has no difficulties and sees clearly in the hour of danger in accordance with God. It sees from the beginning the end. There is faith, a faith that gives strength and forgets itself. David is a young man, but a greater veteran on the path and in the battle of faith than anyone else in the army of Israel.

“That all the earth may know that there is a God in Israel” and not that such a great guy as David has achieved a great victory. This goes beyond personal faith, although this first must be present. He knows that the battle he fights is the battle of God. He does not fight for himself, but for the people. Therefore he says that God gives Goliath into “our” hands.

Once the world will see it and know that there is a God Who has everything in His hands. This is a word for “all this assembly”, for all who are witnesses of the battle. Proof is shown that God does not deliver by sword or by spear, but by weakness relying on Him. Therefore, only to Him can be attributed the full victory. These are lessons of trust in God and of mistrust of ourselves (1 Samuel 14:6; Exodus 14:13-18; Judges 7:2; 4; Judges 7:7; Psalms 44:5-7).

1 Samuel 26:24

The Creed of David

David is not impressed by the giant’s roaring language. He goes down to him because this Philistine has taunted the living God. In full certainty of faith, in full trust in God, David goes down to Goliath. He lists all the mighty weapons the giant has. He is not blind to that, but he does not concentrate exclusively at it, for he knows in Whose Name he meets the giant. Against the LORD, Goliath’s weapons are completely insignificant. What Goliath expects from his weapons, David expects from the inexpressible glorious Name of the LORD.

In the most powerful language of faith, David accuses Goliath of taunting the LORD. This is the ground of his condemnation, and David shall execute the sentence. The LORD shall deliver him into the hand of David, that David may remove the head of the enemy. This means the complete settlement of the enemy, so that every force is vanished and irreversible lost. And not only Goliath will become a dead body, the same will happen to all who have taken his side. They will all become food of the animals. A dignified burial will not be there.

Faith has no difficulties and sees clearly in the hour of danger in accordance with God. It sees from the beginning the end. There is faith, a faith that gives strength and forgets itself. David is a young man, but a greater veteran on the path and in the battle of faith than anyone else in the army of Israel.

“That all the earth may know that there is a God in Israel” and not that such a great guy as David has achieved a great victory. This goes beyond personal faith, although this first must be present. He knows that the battle he fights is the battle of God. He does not fight for himself, but for the people. Therefore he says that God gives Goliath into “our” hands.

Once the world will see it and know that there is a God Who has everything in His hands. This is a word for “all this assembly”, for all who are witnesses of the battle. Proof is shown that God does not deliver by sword or by spear, but by weakness relying on Him. Therefore, only to Him can be attributed the full victory. These are lessons of trust in God and of mistrust of ourselves (1 Samuel 14:6; Exodus 14:13-18; Judges 7:2; 4; Judges 7:7; Psalms 44:5-7).

1 Samuel 26:25

David Defeats and Kills Goliath

The fight between the two champions goes off. To the Philistine it seems like he must fight with a dwarf. Like a moving mountain, covered with bronze and iron, he draws near to meet David. David, however, goes faster toward Goliath than Goliath comes to him. The Spirit of God describes David’s actions in detail when he runs quickly to the enemy. He goes toward “the battle line”, because in the Philistine the whole army of the Philistines unites.

One of the stones is enough to prevail over the giant. God loves to achieve great results by small, simple means. In fact, there is no fight. Even in the battle in the end time, when the Lord Jesus comes, there is no battle, no back and forth moving scenes, as if the devil could also have a chance of victory.

David conquers with a sling and a stone, nothing more. By using it correctly, all the power of Goliath and all the Philistines is completely broken in one stroke. The stone has felled the giant. The sword makes a definitive end to the giant. David kills the giant with his own sword. In the same way, by dying, the Lord Jesus conquered death.

The description of the victory has in the original the form of a song. The consequence of the victory over the giant extends to all those who has joined the giant. Both David and Goliath represent a people. In defeating Goliath, the entire army of the Philistines is defeated. The defeated enemies are all fleeing. They do not keep word and do not become willing slaves of the overcomer, as Goliath has provocatively suggested in 1 Samuel 17:9.