“When David was told, “Look, the Philistines are fighting against Keilah and are looting the threshing floors,” 2 he inquired of the Lord, saying, “Shall I go and attack these Philistines?” The Lord answered him, “Go, attack the Philistines and save Keilah.” 3 But David’s men said to him, “Here in Judah we are afraid. How much more, then, if we go to Keilah against the Philistine forces!” 4 Once again David inquired of the Lord, and the Lord answered him, “Go down to Keilah, for I am going to give the Philistines into your hand.” 5 So David and his men went to Keilah, fought the Philistines and carried off their livestock. He inflicted heavy losses on the Philistines and saved the people of Keilah. 6 (Now Abiathar son of Ahimelek had brought the ephod down with him when he fled to David at Keilah.)” 1 Samuel 23.1-6
David and his men were alone and in exile. They were hiding from Saul and uncertain of the path forward. Was David actually going to be the king? Would Saul and the armies of Israel find them and kill them? How could they know for sure that God was with them?
So David hears about their enemies, the Philistines, fighting against the people in the town of Keilah, and he inquires of the Lord. This is a significant move on the part of David. He did not have to inquire of God. Saul certainly wasn’t doing so. He didn’t have to ask God for anything, but he does. David is a man whose heart is set on God, so it was natural for him to ask God before taking such an action.
It just so happens that Abiathar, son of Ahimelek the priest, had brought the holy ephod down with David when he fled with him. This priestly garment was worn when the priests of God were inquiring and praying to the Lord. It was worn when they were interceding for the people and for Israel. Not only did David have favor with the Lord, but Abiathar had access. They were doing exactly what they should have been doing as people of God.
And so, David inquires, “Should I attack the Philistines?” And twice God says, “Go down to Keilah, for I am going to give them into your hand.” And that’s exactly what happened. They attacked and they won. The enemy suffered heavy losses, but David and his men won and carried off their livestock, crucial supplies for supporting four hundred fighting men.
But my focus here is upon “favor.” David found favor with God. He was not seeking his own will but the will of God for the sake of the people. And God honored his request.
And today, when you hear God’s voice, seek His favor. When you come up against something for which you need direction, inquire of the Lord. Ask God to guide you, lead you, direct you. Do not seek your own will or your own way, just like David prayed to God. You may not have a priest with an ephod, but you have the Holy Spirit – a direct connection with God. And when you ask, God will answer.
“O Lord God, thank you for your favor, thank you for your love. In my own work, life, and ministry, you have answered and directed me. Come now, Holy Spirit. Wash me clean. Allow me to walk in your power and your presence. Help me be all that you have called me to be. For you are good and your love endures forever.” Amen