Chapter 21 begins David’s long refuge from Saul’s pursuit. He first went to Nob, to Ahimelek, the priest who was unaware of Saul’s outburst toward David. David lied about his situation to gain food and weapons from Ahimelek (2). It is unknown whose side Ahimelek would have taken. But because of David’s lie, his willingness to help brought a disaster onto his household (22:17-19). Later, Jesus mentioned this incident as one of helping the hungry over religious rituals (Mark 2:23-28), yet David’s deception was not honorable.

David went into the Philistine territory to avoid Saul’s pursuit. But in Gath, Goliath’s hometown, he realized people had heard how he had slain the Philistines. He was afraid and pretended insanity to escape the unwanted attention (13). Through this low point in his life, he understood the Lord’s mercy and deliverance of the poor and brokenhearted (Psalm 34). Through this painful time, the Lord was molding David to be a king who understands the fragile nature of human glory and the fear of God.
Application: Father, I am weak and fearful before the world that is like a roaring lion. Yet I am comforted knowing that you keep me close to you. Please protect my heart today so that I may fear none other than you.
One Word: Fearing God is true wisdom.