This verse from 1 Samuel 18:5 describes David's early success and popularity in Saul's kingdom. Let's break it down phrase by phrase:
"David went out wherever Saul sent him...": This establishes that David was obedient and dutiful to King Saul. He accepted the missions and tasks Saul assigned to him.
"...and behaved himself wisely...": This highlights David's competence and skill. He was not only obedient but also capable and strategic in his actions. He made good decisions and achieved positive results in his assignments. This is key - it emphasizes that David wasn't just passively following orders, but he was actively contributing to the success of the missions.
"...and Saul set him over the men of war.": Because of David's wise actions and success, Saul promoted him to a position of leadership within the army. This promotion indicates Saul's initial trust and recognition of David's abilities.
"It was good in the sight of all the people, and also in the sight of Saul’s servants.": This emphasizes David's widespread popularity and positive reputation. Both the general populace and Saul's own officials approved of David's performance and leadership. This widespread approval is significant because it sets the stage for the later jealousy and conflict that arise between Saul and David. Everyone liked and respected David, which indirectly made Saul feel threatened.
In summary, 1 Samuel 18:5 describes David's rise in favor and power within Saul's court due to his obedience, wisdom, and success in military endeavors. He proved himself a capable leader, earning the respect and admiration of the people and Saul's servants, which led to his promotion. It's an important verse because it establishes David's character, capabilities, and popularity before the conflict with Saul escalates. It highlights that David's favor was earned through his actions and not simply by chance. It is a prelude to the jealousy that Saul would later feel.
This verse from 1 Samuel 18:5 describes David's early success and popularity in Saul's kingdom. Let's break it down phrase by phrase:
"David went out wherever Saul sent him...": This establishes that David was obedient and dutiful to King Saul. He accepted the missions and tasks Saul assigned to him.
"...and behaved himself wisely...": This highlights David's competence and skill. He was not only obedient but also capable and strategic in his actions. He made good decisions and achieved positive results in his assignments. This is key - it emphasizes that David wasn't just passively following orders, but he was actively contributing to the success of the missions.
"...and Saul set him over the men of war.": Because of David's wise actions and success, Saul promoted him to a position of leadership within the army. This promotion indicates Saul's initial trust and recognition of David's abilities.
"It was good in the sight of all the people, and also in the sight of Saul’s servants.": This emphasizes David's widespread popularity and positive reputation. Both the general populace and Saul's own officials approved of David's performance and leadership. This widespread approval is significant because it sets the stage for the later jealousy and conflict that arise between Saul and David. Everyone liked and respected David, which indirectly made Saul feel threatened.
In summary, 1 Samuel 18:5 describes David's rise in favor and power within Saul's court due to his obedience, wisdom, and success in military endeavors. He proved himself a capable leader, earning the respect and admiration of the people and Saul's servants, which led to his promotion. It's an important verse because it establishes David's character, capabilities, and popularity before the conflict with Saul escalates. It highlights that David's favor was earned through his actions and not simply by chance. It is a prelude to the jealousy that Saul would later feel.