1 Chronicles 18:1-5, 12, 13 Now after this it came to pass, that David smote the Philistines, and subdued them… This chapter opens with an account of David's wars, followed by a succession of brilliant victories. Following on the previous chapter, though separated from it by a considerable length of time, it brings before us much spiritual instruction. The previous chapter contains an account of the many "exceeding great and precious promises" made to David, his confidence in them, and also that which invariably flows out of such grace - his communion with God. Communion with God is the outcome of grace received. But out of realized grace and communion with God flow warfare and victory. This is the opening record of this chapter. The former supplies strength for the latter, and he who goes forth from his knees to fight the good fight of faith will, in every battle, be "more than conqueror" through him that loves him. And mark how David is single-handed among many foes, and all of diverse character. "Edom, Moab, the children of Ammon, the Philistines, Amalek, and the Syrians. What a host, and how diverse! Yet God's eye follows the single-handed servant amid all these foes. A "wall of fire" is round about him - "the Lord preserved David whithersoever he went." So is it with every servant of God who goes forth to fight the Lord's battles direct from communion. "Victory!" is inscribed on his banner. He is invincible, because "strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might." He may be single-handed, and his foes may be legion and of every character, but he triumphs over all and, like David here, lays all the trophies of victory at the Saviour's feet. - W. Parallel Verses KJV: Now after this it came to pass, that David smote the Philistines, and subdued them, and took Gath and her towns out of the hand of the Philistines. |
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