Chapter 5: The Rescue No One Repaid

Some time later, word reached David that the Philistines were attacking the town of Keilah in the lowlands of Judah, raiding the threshing floors and stealing the grain. Using the ephod that Abiathar had brought, David inquired of the Lord.

DAVID“Shall I go and attack these Philistines?”

GOD“Go. Attack the Philistines and save Keilah.”— 1 Samuel 23:2

But David's men were afraid. They were already fugitives hiding in the forests of Judah. Now they were supposed to march into open battle against the Philistines? David inquired of God a second time. God confirmed it:

GOD“Go down to Keilah. I am giving the Philistines into your hand.”— 1 Samuel 23:4

David and his men fought the Philistines, struck them with a heavy blow, and saved the people of Keilah.

The people David had just saved would have handed him to Saul without hesitation. He left before they had the chance.