Yesterday we left David in Philistia (1 Samuel 27.1 – 28.2). Let’s pick up that story in chapter 29 where the Philistines are going to battle against the Israelites:

The Philistines mustered all their troops at Aphek. Meanwhile Israel had made camp at the spring at Jezreel. As the Philistine warlords marched forward by regiments and divisions, David and his men were bringing up the rear with Achish. (1 Samuel 29.1, 2, MSG)

We don’t know what David’s plan was. Achish trusted him, but the Philistine officers didn’t:

The Philistine officers said, “What business do these Hebrews have being here?” Achish answered the officers, “Don’t you recognize David, ex-servant of King Saul of Israel? He’s been with me a long time. I’ve found nothing to be suspicious of, nothing to complain about, from the day he defected from Saul until now.” Angry with Achish, the Philistine officers said, “Send this man back to where he came from. Let him stick to his normal duties. He’s not going into battle with us. He’d switch sides in the middle of the fight! What better chance to get back in favor with his master than by stabbing us in the back! (1 Samuel 29.3, 4, MSG)

Whatever David’s plan was, David would be on the battleground when Saul was killed (we’ll get there in chapter 31). There would be confusion among the Israeli troops as to whose side David was on. It was definitely best he not be there.

Achish listens to his officers and sends David back:

So Achish had to send for David and tell him, “As GOD lives, you’ve been a trusty ally—excellent in all the ways you have worked with me, beyond reproach in the ways you have conducted yourself. But the warlords don’t see it that way. So it’s best that you leave peacefully, now. It’s not worth it, displeasing the Philistine warlords.” (1 Samuel 29.6, 7, MSG)

As I say, we don’t know what David’s plan was, but God’s plan was that he not be on that battlefield. God was saving David’s reputation.

God directs our steps. I don’t know why I didn’t get to see the eclipse. I planned on it for 7 years. The original plan was to drive out with June and continue on a southeast trip. But we ruled that out in January when we perceived how difficult travel was for us. Then I decided to go with Mark, who was also planning to drive to Melody’s place in Arkansas. Then we started looking at weather… Anyway, we didn’t go.

The heart of man plans his way, but the LORD establishes his steps. (Proverbs 16.9, ESV)

Since the Lord is directing our steps, why try to understand everything that happens along the way? (Proverbs 20.24, TLB)