1. The Philistines attack David (17-21)

David had been anointed king over whole Israel (17). This was a crisis to the Philistines. They went up in full force to search for David and spread out in the Valley of Rephaim. At this moment, what did David do? First of all, he prayed to God for direction. Then, relying on God, he could defeat the full force of the Philistines.

2. The Philistines attack a second time (22-25)

Even though the Philistines were defeated, they did not give up to attack David when his kingship over all Israel was in its early stages. They came up and spread out in the Valley of Rephaim again. David prayed to God again instead of relying on his experience. God gave him a sign that he will go out ahead of David. When David obeyed the Lord, he could defeat the Philistines again.