So the story of David escaping the clutches of Saul continues. In today's passage we see some very interesting things happening. Let me recap as the story goes, and possibly enliven some of it as an initial read my not fully disclose the happenings of chapters 21-22.
So, the tabernacle of the Lord is here in Nob. Ahimelech is the priest who is presiding over it. Now, David is trying to remain undetected by Saul and his guards. The word on this is out and Ahimelech is aware of what is going on between Saul and David. Ahimelech is initially fearful of David's presence at his door because Saul might find out. So, in order to protect Ahimelech, we see that David's fabricates a story of an urgent message needing to be delivered. So urgent in fact that he forgets to pack a meal. So, Ahimelech offers the holy bread (the bread of presence). Side note: this may seem unimportant, but this is the bread that was set out every morning in the Tabernacle (12 loaves) to represent the 12 tribes of Israel and God's provision of daily bread for them. However, after its 1 day stay, the bread could be consumed by the priest. This is why Ahimelech asks it those who were to consume it were ceremonially clean.
Doeg, one of Saul's herdsman takes note of this all. Also, David ask for a weapon, of which Ahimelech gives him the sword of Goliath, the Philistine that David had struck down with his sling-shot. So, David runs off and begins to gather a small army (about 400 men.)
So after this, David heads south for Gath. Hoping to hide from Saul, David is spotted by the king there, King Achish. David pulls out his acting career and pretends to be an insane man. This might sound crazy, so I ask you to read your Bible again! (21:12-15) So convincing was his acting, that King Achish sends him away. This was good news for David. So he goes off into a cave with his small army.
In the meantime, Saul finds out about Ahimelech helping David. Saul then orders all of Ahimelech's family and priests to be killed. Doeg, is the one who kills them and all the priests, 85 to count. But one escapes. Abaithar, one of Ahimelech's sons runs off and finds David to inform him of what happened. David takes Abaithar under his care.
Wow, this seems like a pretty wild story line. Well, I think it sure is. It's amazing how God protects David throughout all of this. Now maybe when we read the Psalms, we can begin to understand a little better when David calls the Lord as His rock, fortress and shelter!
How is God guiding you in your life today? Are you giving God the praise, honor and glory that He deserves?
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