1 CHRONICLES 14 - David defeats the Philistines

NOTES BY VERSE

Note: each ** comment in this document is listed in numerical order according to the verse(s) from this chapter

** No doubt, David learned the lesson to seek God’s guidance after witnessing God striking Uzzah dead for not abiding by His law  <R1795>

• The Philistines had secured a dominance and garrison in Bethlehem, which lies about seven miles east of Jerusalem

• Wanting to maintain their monopoly, they challenged David when he was made king

• If they could kill or discredit David their domination of Israel would continue

• In response, David inquired of the Lord, followed His directions and defeated the Philistines

• David was able to make his people secure because he sought and did the will of God  

1 Chronicles 14:8-10 NIV

[8] When the Philistines heard that David had been anointed king over all Israel, they went up in full force to search for him, but David heard about it and went out to meet them. [9] Now the Philistines had come and raided the Valley of Rephaim; [10] so David inquired of God: “Shall I go and attack the Philistines? Will you deliver them into my hands?” The Lord answered him, “Go, I will deliver them into your hands.”

** The Philistines intended to ruin David before his throne was consolidated  <M130>

• The Philistines had a plan to kill David

• Unlike Saul, God gave David victory

• In this way, God declared His support of Israel’s new king to the Philistines and Israel

1 Chronicles 14:8,13-17 NIV

[8] When the Philistines heard that David had been anointed king over all Israel, they went up in full force to search for him, but David heard about it and went out to meet them. [13] Once more the Philistines raided the valley; [14] so David inquired of God again, and God answered him, “Do not go directly after them, but circle around them and attack them in front of the poplar trees. [15] As soon as you hear the sound of marching in the tops of the poplar trees, move out to battle, because that will mean God has gone out in front of you to strike the Philistine army.” [16] So David did as God commanded him, and they struck down the Philistine army, all the way from Gibeon to Gezer. [17] So David's fame spread throughout every land, and the Lord made all the nations fear him.