1 Samuel 18:5

KJV

And David went out whithersoever Saul sent him, [and] behaved himself wisely: and Saul set him over the men of war, and he was accepted in the sight of all the people, and also in the sight of Saul's servants.

KJV (with Strong's)

And David {H1732} went out {H3318} whithersoever Saul {H7586} sent {H7971} him, and behaved himself wisely {H7919}: and Saul {H7586} set {H7760} him over the men {H582} of war {H4421}, and he was accepted {H3190} in the sight {H5869} of all the people {H5971}, and also in the sight {H5869} of Saul's {H7586} servants {H5650}.

Complete Jewish Bible

David would go out, and no matter where Sha'ul sent him, he was successful. Sha'ul put him in charge of the fighting men; all the people thought it good, and so did Sha'ul's servants.

Berean Standard Bible

So David marched out and prospered in everything Saul sent him to do, and Saul set him over the men of war. And this was pleasing in the sight of all the people, and of Saul’s officers as well.

American Standard Version

And David went out whithersoever Saul sent him, and behaved himself wisely: and Saul set him over the men of war, and it was good in the sight of all the people, and also in the sight of Saul’s servants.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Following his monumental victory over Goliath, 1 Samuel 18:5 details David's swift and remarkable ascent within King Saul's administration and among the people of Israel. The verse highlights David's consistent wisdom and effectiveness in all his military assignments, leading Saul to appoint him over the men of war. This appointment, coupled with David's universally acclaimed character and success, resulted in widespread acceptance and admiration from all segments of society, including Saul's own household, setting the stage for his burgeoning influence and the dramatic shift in Saul's disposition.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse immediately follows David's decisive triumph over Goliath in [1 Samuel 17](/1_samuel/17 "1 Samuel 17 - David and Goliath"), an event that dramatically propelled him from the obscurity of a shepherd boy into national prominence. Prior to this, David had been introduced to Saul's court as a skilled musician and armor-bearer, as recounted in [1 Samuel 16:21](/1_samuel/16-21 "1 Samuel 16:21 - David Serves Saul"). The narrative then describes the deep bond formed between David and Jonathan, Saul's son, marked by Jonathan's covenant with David and the symbolic giving of his princely attire in [1 Samuel 18:1-4](/1_samuel/18-1 "1 Samuel 18:1-4 - Jonathan's Love for David"). Verse 5, therefore, marks the practical manifestation of David's newfound status and the initial, positive reception of his leadership, transitioning him from a personal attendant to a public military commander. This immediate success and popularity, however, also serve as a crucial literary pivot, directly foreshadowing the burgeoning jealousy of Saul that dominates the subsequent chapters of [1 Samuel](/1_samuel "The Book of 1 Samuel").

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Israel, military leadership was paramount, especially given the constant threat from surrounding nations like the Philistines. Kings were expected to be successful military commanders, and the ability to lead troops effectively was a key measure of their rule. Saul, though initially chosen for his physical stature and military prowess, had recently fallen out of divine favor due to his disobedience, particularly in the war against the Amalekites ([1 Samuel 15](/1_samuel/15 "1 Samuel 15 - Saul's Disobedience")). The people's desire for a strong, victorious leader was intense. David's immediate and consistent success in military campaigns, therefore, filled a critical void and resonated deeply with the populace. The concept of "wisdom" (Hebrew: _sakal_) in this context extends beyond mere intelligence; it signifies practical discernment, prudence, and the ability to act effectively, often implying a divine enablement that leads to prosperity and success in all endeavors. A leader who "behaved wisely" was seen as blessed by God and capable of bringing victory and stability to the nation.

* **Key Themes:** The verse encapsulates several pivotal themes that run throughout the book of [1 Samuel](/1_samuel "The Book of 1 Samuel") and the broader biblical narrative. Central is the theme of **Divine Favor and Providence**, as David's rapid ascent and universal acceptance are clearly presented as a result of God's hand upon him, marking him as the chosen successor to Saul. This is contrasted with Saul's declining favor and eventual rejection, highlighting God's sovereign choice in leadership, as seen earlier in [1 Samuel 16:7](/1_samuel/16-7 "1 Samuel 16:7 - The Lord Looks at the Heart"). Another key theme is **David's Godly Wisdom and Obedience**, which is portrayed not just as shrewdness but as a divinely inspired conduct that leads to success, even in dangerous assignments. This wisdom is a hallmark of David's early career, distinguishing him from Saul's impulsive and disobedient actions. Finally, the verse introduces the theme of **Leadership and Popular Acclaim**, demonstrating David's natural charisma and ability to garner widespread support, which would ultimately contribute to Saul's intense jealousy and the tragic unraveling of his reign, as detailed in [1 Samuel 18:8-9](/1_samuel/18-8 "1 Samuel 18:8-9 - Saul's Jealousy Erupts").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Wisely (Hebrew, _śāḵal'_):** The Hebrew verb שָׂכַל (_śāḵal_), translated "behaved himself wisely" in the KJV, carries a rich and multifaceted meaning. It signifies acting with understanding, prudence, and discernment, often leading to success, prosperity, or good fortune. It implies not merely intellectual shrewdness but a practical wisdom that results in effective action and favorable outcomes, often understood as a gift or enablement from God. In the Old Testament, this wisdom is frequently associated with righteous living and obedience to God's commands, leading to a flourishing life. David's wisdom here is therefore not just a personal trait but an indication of divine blessing and guidance in his actions.
* **Accepted (Hebrew, _yāqar'_):** The Hebrew verb יָקַר (_yāqar_), translated "accepted," means to be precious, valuable, honored, or highly esteemed. It denotes that David was held in high regard and valued by "all the people" and "Saul's servants." This term emphasizes the widespread and deep respect, admiration, and affection that David garnered. It goes beyond mere tolerance or approval, suggesting that he was considered a person of great worth and importance by everyone who encountered him or observed his actions. This universal acceptance highlights David's exceptional character and the favor of God upon him.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And David went out whithersoever Saul sent him":** This clause immediately establishes David's obedience, humility, and readiness for service. Despite his newfound fame from the Goliath victory, David remained submissive to Saul's authority, undertaking every assignment given to him without question. This demonstrates his character of faithfulness and willingness to serve, which would have been highly valued in a military context. It also signifies his immediate integration into the king's military command structure.
* **"[and] behaved himself wisely":** This is the pivotal observation regarding David's conduct. As discussed in the key word analysis, his "wisdom" was a practical, God-enabled prudence that led to success in all his missions. This wasn't just about winning battles, but also about managing troops, navigating political dynamics, and making sound judgments in complex situations. This consistent, effective conduct was the foundation of his growing reputation and influence.
* **"and Saul set him over the men of war":** This marks a significant promotion and a testament to David's proven competence. Saul, recognizing David's consistent success and the favor he enjoyed, entrusted him with a high-ranking military position. This was a strategic move by Saul, hoping to leverage David's capabilities for the kingdom's benefit, but it also inadvertently elevated David to a position of power and visibility that would soon threaten Saul's own insecure reign.
* **"and he was accepted in the sight of all the people, and also in the sight of Saul's servants."**: This final phrase underscores the widespread nature of David's popularity and esteem. His acceptance was not limited to the common populace who celebrated his victory over Goliath, but extended even to those within the king's inner circle and household. This universal approval, even among those closest to Saul, further highlights David's exceptional character and the divine favor upon him, while simultaneously setting the stage for Saul's deep-seated jealousy, which would soon turn his initial favor into murderous intent.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several significant literary devices. **Foreshadowing** is prominent, as David's universal acceptance and rising influence subtly hint at his eventual kingship, while simultaneously foreshadowing the intense jealousy and paranoia that will consume Saul, leading to his downfall. There is also an element of **Juxtaposition**, subtly contrasting David's increasing favor and success with Saul's declining authority and spiritual state, which has been evident since [1 Samuel 15](/1_samuel/15 "1 Samuel 15 - Saul's Rejection by God"). The phrase "behaved himself wisely" serves as a **Motif** that will recur in David's narrative, consistently linking his success to his prudent and God-guided actions. Furthermore, the almost redundant emphasis on "all the people" and "Saul's servants" creates a sense of **Hyperbole** or **Emphasis**, underscoring the truly pervasive nature of David's acceptance and popularity, which would have been deeply unsettling to a king already struggling with insecurity.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
1 Samuel 18:5 beautifully illustrates the principle of divine favor and the outworking of God's sovereign plan. David's "wisdom" and subsequent success are not merely products of his innate skill but are clearly presented as an enablement from the Lord, demonstrating that true leadership and effectiveness are rooted in God's presence and guidance. This verse highlights how God raises up and prepares His chosen instruments, often through humble obedience and faithful service in seemingly small tasks. David's widespread acceptance underscores God's ability to turn the hearts of people towards His chosen one, even before his full anointing as king. This initial period of favor serves as a stark contrast to Saul's increasingly erratic behavior and declining popularity, emphasizing God's transfer of blessing and authority.

* [1 Samuel 16:7](/1_samuel/16-7 "1 Samuel 16:7 - The Lord Looks at the Heart")
* [James 1:5](/james/1-5 "James 1:5 - Asking God for Wisdom")
* [Luke 2:52](/luke/2-52 "Luke 2:52 - Jesus' Growth in Wisdom and Favor")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
David's early career, as encapsulated in 1 Samuel 18:5, offers profound lessons for believers today. His consistent "wise" behavior, rooted in obedience and divine enablement, demonstrates that true effectiveness and influence stem not merely from human talent or ambition, but from a life lived in humble submission to God's will. David's willingness to go "whithersoever Saul sent him" reminds us of the value of faithfulness in every assignment, no matter how mundane or dangerous. It is in these moments of diligent service that character is forged and God's favor is often manifested, opening doors to greater responsibilities and impact. His universal acceptance serves as a powerful reminder that a life of integrity, wisdom, and God-honoring conduct can earn respect and influence even among those who may not share our faith or allegiances. We are called to cultivate a similar wisdom, seeking God's guidance in all our endeavors, trusting that He will make our paths straight and grant us favor as we faithfully serve Him and others.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life do you need to seek God's wisdom to "behave yourself wisely" and act with greater discernment?**
* **How does David's obedience to Saul, even after his great victory, challenge your understanding of humility and faithfulness in service?**
* **What does David's widespread acceptance teach us about the impact of character and integrity in gaining influence and respect?**
* **How can you cultivate a spirit of humility and obedience in your daily tasks, trusting that God uses faithfulness in "small things" to prepare you for greater responsibilities?**

### FAQ
**What does "behaved himself wisely" truly mean in the context of David's actions?**

Answer: The phrase "behaved himself wisely" (Hebrew: _śāḵal_) signifies much more than mere intelligence or shrewdness. It encapsulates a practical, discerning wisdom that leads to successful outcomes. In the biblical sense, this wisdom is often seen as a gift or enablement from God, allowing an individual to navigate complex situations, make sound judgments, and act effectively. For David, it meant that in every military mission Saul sent him on, he acted with prudence, skill, and God-given insight, resulting in consistent victories and favorable results. It suggests that his success was not just due to his own abilities, but to the Lord's hand guiding and prospering his endeavors, distinguishing him as a leader who operated under divine favor, much like Joseph ([Genesis 39:2-3](/genesis/39-2 "Genesis 39:2-3 - The Lord Was with Joseph")) or Daniel ([Daniel 1:17](/daniel/1-17 "Daniel 1:17 - God Gave Daniel Wisdom")).

**Why was David "accepted in the sight of all the people, and also in the sight of Saul's servants"?**

Answer: David's widespread acceptance stemmed from a combination of factors, primarily his demonstrated competence, his character, and the clear favor of God upon him. His victory over Goliath had already made him a national hero, but his consistent success in subsequent military campaigns under Saul's command solidified his reputation as a capable and effective leader. Beyond his military prowess, David's character—marked by humility, obedience, and a spirit of service—would have made him endearing. The fact that he was accepted even by Saul's own servants suggests that his integrity and conduct were evident even within the king's inner circle, where political maneuvering and jealousy might have been common. This universal acceptance highlights David's genuine appeal and the undeniable presence of God's blessing, which drew people to him and affirmed his leadership potential.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
1 Samuel 18:5, while detailing David's early success, points forward to the ultimate Son of David, Jesus Christ. David's "wise" behavior and universal acceptance find their perfect fulfillment in Jesus. Unlike David, who merely "behaved wisely," Jesus *is* wisdom incarnate, the very "power of God and the wisdom of God" ([1 Corinthians 1:24](/1_corinthians/1-24 "1 Corinthians 1:24 - Christ the Power and Wisdom of God")). He perfectly fulfilled every mission His Father sent Him on, demonstrating perfect obedience even to the point of death on a cross ([Philippians 2:8](/philippians/2-8 "Philippians 2:8 - Jesus' Obedience to Death")). While David was set over "men of war," Christ is the true commander, the King of kings and Lord of lords, to whom "all authority in heaven and on earth has been given" ([Matthew 28:18](/matthew/28-18 "Matthew 28:18 - The Great Commission")). Though David was "accepted" by all the people and even Saul's servants, Jesus, though rejected by many of His own ([John 1:11](/john/1-11 "John 1:11 - He Came to His Own")), is ultimately the one who is "accepted" and exalted by God, with every knee bowing and every tongue confessing His Lordship ([Philippians 2:9-11](/philippians/2-9 "Philippians 2:9-11 - Jesus' Exaltation")). David's temporary favor and wisdom merely foreshadow the eternal wisdom, perfect obedience, and universal reign of the Messiah, who truly takes away the sin of the world and establishes an everlasting kingdom.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

1 Samuel 18:30

Then the princes of the Philistines went forth: and it came to pass, after they went forth, [that] David behaved himself more wisely than all the servants of Saul; so that his name was much set by.

1 Samuel 18:14

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

1 Samuel 18:15

Wherefore when Saul saw that he behaved himself very wisely, he was afraid of him.

Colossians 4:5

¶ Walk in wisdom toward them that are without, redeeming the time.

Acts 7:10

And delivered him out of all his afflictions, and gave him favour and wisdom in the sight of Pharaoh king of Egypt; and he made him governor over Egypt and all his house.

Ephesians 5:17

Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord [is].

Psalms 1:3

And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.