1 Samuel 18:14

And David behaved himself wisely in all his ways; and the LORD [was] with him.

And David {H1732} behaved himself wisely {H7919} in all his ways {H1870}; and the LORD {H3068} was with him.

David had great success in all his ways; ADONAI was with him.

and he continued to prosper in all his ways, because the LORD was with him.

And David behaved himself wisely in all his ways; and Jehovah was with him.

Commentary

Context of 1 Samuel 18:14

This verse appears during a pivotal and increasingly tense period in the life of David and King Saul. Following David's monumental victory over Goliath (1 Samuel 17:50), his popularity surged dramatically among the people of Israel. This success, however, sparked intense jealousy and fear in King Saul, who saw David as a threat to his throne (1 Samuel 18:8-9). In an attempt to control or even eliminate David, Saul gave him various military and administrative duties. Verse 14 highlights David's conduct during this time, emphasizing his consistent wisdom and the divine favor that accompanied him, even as Saul's animosity grew.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Divine Presence as the Source of Success: The most significant declaration in this verse is "the LORD [was] with him." This phrase is the ultimate explanation for David's consistent success and wisdom. It signifies God's active favor, guidance, and protection over David, distinguishing him from Saul, from whom the Spirit of the Lord had departed (1 Samuel 16:14).
  • Wisdom in Action: David's wisdom wasn't just intellectual; it was practical and evident "in all his ways." This implies that his decisions, actions, and interactions were marked by prudence, discernment, and good judgment. This wisdom allowed him to navigate the treacherous political landscape of Saul's court and maintain the people's respect.
  • Contrast with Saul's Decline: Implicitly, David's wisdom and God's unwavering presence stand in stark contrast to King Saul's increasingly erratic and unwise behavior. Saul's fear and jealousy led him to foolish and self-destructive actions, while David's reliance on God led to wisdom and prosperity.
  • God's Anointing and Purpose: This verse underscores the reality of God's anointing on David, first mentioned in 1 Samuel 16:13. His wisdom and success were not merely personal attributes but manifestations of God preparing him for future leadership.

Linguistic Insight

The Hebrew word translated "behaved himself wisely" is sakal (Χ©ΦΈΧ‚Χ›Φ·Χœ). This term conveys more than just intelligence; it implies acting with insight, prudence, and discernment, often leading to successful outcomes. It's a practical wisdom that allows one to prosper or achieve their objectives. When coupled with "the LORD [was] with him," it highlights that David's wisdom was not merely human cleverness but was empowered and guided by divine presence, ensuring his prosperity and effectiveness in all his endeavors.

Significance and Application

1 Samuel 18:14 offers profound lessons for believers today.

  • The Source of True Wisdom: David's example teaches that genuine wisdom that leads to lasting success is not solely human ingenuity but is ultimately a gift and an outcome of God's presence in one's life. As James 1:5 encourages, we should ask God for wisdom.
  • God's Presence Ensures Success: The verse powerfully declares that "the LORD [was] with him," which explains David's prosperity despite growing opposition. This reminds us that when God is with us, He empowers us for success in our endeavors, even in challenging circumstances. Our ultimate success is tied to His favor and guidance.
  • Prudence in Adversity: David's ability to act wisely even under the intense pressure and jealousy from Saul demonstrates the importance of discernment and careful conduct when facing adversity or unfair treatment. Rather than reacting impulsively, David's actions were measured and thoughtful, reflecting his trust in God's plan.
  • Relying on God's Guidance: This verse encourages us to seek God's direction in "all our ways," trusting that He will direct our paths and grant us the wisdom needed to navigate life's complexities (Proverbs 3:5-6). His presence is our greatest asset.
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Cross-References

  • Genesis 39:23 (11 votes)

    The keeper of the prison looked not to any thing [that was] under his hand; because the LORD was with him, and [that] which he did, the LORD made [it] to prosper.

  • Joshua 6:27 (9 votes)

    So the LORD was with Joshua; and his fame was [noised] throughout all the country.

  • Matthew 28:20 (9 votes)

    Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, [even] unto the end of the world. Amen.

  • 1 Samuel 16:18 (9 votes)

    Then answered one of the servants, and said, Behold, I have seen a son of Jesse the Bethlehemite, [that is] cunning in playing, and a mighty valiant man, and a man of war, and prudent in matters, and a comely person, and the LORD [is] with him.

  • Genesis 39:2 (8 votes)

    And the LORD was with Joseph, and he was a prosperous man; and he was in the house of his master the Egyptian.

  • Genesis 39:3 (8 votes)

    And his master saw that the LORD [was] with him, and that the LORD made all that he did to prosper in his hand.

  • Matthew 1:23 (6 votes)

    Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us.