“When the P’lishtim heard that David had been anointed king over Israel, all the P’lishtim went up in search of David. On learning of it, David went down to the stronghold.“-2 Samuel 5:17
Once David caught wind that the Philistines were planning to attack, he ventured off to a mysterious place called “the stronghold.”
Contrary to what may be a popular but wrong opinion, this location was NOT the City of David.
This so-called “stronghold” was actually located somewhere else.
But where?
Most likely, it was the spot David had used before known as the Cave at Adullam.
It was a wise move if you think about it.
David most likely wanted to lead the Philistines away from his family and his private property to a terrain he was well familiar with.
On top of that, not all the tribes would have wanted to fight the Philistines just to protect King David’s private land, the City of David.
After David sought the Lord for advice via the Urim and Thummim stones, we’re told the Philistines set up camp in the Refa’im Valley, southwest of Jerusalem.
David then took his army to a place called Ba’al P’ratzim (meaning “the Lord of Breaking Through”) and defeated the Philistines there.
The takeaway to be gleaned here is about the importance of thinking things through and getting some advice BEFORE jumping into action.
When David heard the Philistines were coming for him, he wasn’t impulsive.
He didn’t just rush into battle.
Instead, he wisely retreated to a stronghold he knew well, which again was probably the Cave at Adullam.
It was a smart move because it kept his family and property safe, and it gave him a chance to figure out his next step.
It’s also important to note that David didn’t rely on his intellect, either.
He asked the Lord for guidance using the Urim and Thummim stones, showing how important it is to get Godly advice before taking action.
So we should do likewise.
In life, whether we’re facing tough situations or making important decisions…
It’s key to take a step back, think things through, and seek guidance.
David’s victory came not just from being a great strategist, but from trusting God and choosing the right path.
Ya feel me?
There have so many times I have attempted to do something, and not always something difficult, when I later looked back and chided myself for not simply asking God to guide my hands or assist in my attempt.
Even something as easy as replacing an electrical socket, or something more difficult, such as building a cabinet, whatever- we should always ask God for guidance and wisdom whenever we take on a task.
Hey, it couldn’t hoit! 😉
Amen, Steven! Many folks think they must restrict their prayers to God for only the big things in our lives. Not true! Of course, we should call on our Father in Heaven for the big stuff. But He has also numbered the hairs on our heads. He knows we gotta pay the rent next month. He knows we prefer blueberry to strawberry jam on our peanut butter toast in the morning. He knows how important it is we catch the train on time to get to work in the morning, etcetera. So, to quote your conclusion: “We should always ask God for guidance and wisdom whenever we take on a task.” I wholeheartedly agree! Be blessed and SHALOM!