1 Samuel 21:3

Now then, what do you have on hand? Give me five loaves of bread, or whatever can be found."

Study Bible

Now then, what do you have on hand?
David, fleeing from King Saul, arrives at Nob, where the tabernacle is located. This question is directed to Ahimelech the priest, indicating David's urgent need for sustenance. The phrase reflects David's dire situation, as he is without provisions. In the broader biblical context, this moment highlights David's reliance on God’s provision during times of distress. It also sets the stage for the subsequent events where David receives the consecrated bread, illustrating God's provision in unexpected ways.

Give me five loaves of bread,
David specifically requests five loaves, which may symbolize a complete provision, as the number five often represents grace in biblical numerology. This request underscores David's immediate need for sustenance. The loaves likely refer to the showbread, which was placed in the tabernacle as an offering to God. This bread was typically reserved for the priests, but David's request and subsequent receipt of the bread foreshadow Jesus' teaching in the New Testament about mercy over sacrifice (Matthew 12:3-4).

or whatever can be found.
David's flexibility in his request shows his desperation and humility. He is willing to accept whatever is available, demonstrating his trust in God's provision. This phrase also highlights the scarcity of resources during his flight, contrasting with the abundance he would later experience as king. It reflects a theme of dependence on God, which is echoed throughout David's life and in the Psalms he authored. This moment prefigures the provision of Christ, who is the Bread of Life, offering sustenance to all who come to Him in need.

Persons / Places / Events

1. David
The future king of Israel, currently fleeing from King Saul, who seeks his life. David is in a state of desperation and need.

2. Ahimelech
The priest at Nob, who is approached by David for assistance. He is unaware of David's true situation and intentions.

3. Nob
A city of priests, where the tabernacle was located at this time. It serves as a temporary refuge for David.

4. Saul
The current king of Israel, who perceives David as a threat to his throne and is actively pursuing him.

5. The Bread of the Presence
Sacred bread that was placed before the Lord in the tabernacle, which David requests in his time of need.

Teaching Points

God's Provision in Desperation
Even in dire circumstances, God provides for His people. David's request for bread shows reliance on God's provision through unexpected means.

Mercy Over Ritual
The incident underscores the importance of mercy and human need over strict adherence to ritual, as later emphasized by Jesus.

Faith in Action
David's approach to Ahimelech demonstrates faith in action. He seeks help, trusting that God will provide through others.

The Role of Priests
Ahimelech's role highlights the priestly duty to serve and provide for those in need, even when the situation is unclear.

Trust in God's Plan
Despite being anointed as king, David faces trials. This teaches us to trust in God's timing and plan, even when circumstances seem contrary.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does David's request for bread demonstrate his faith in God's provision, and how can we apply this in our own times of need?

2. In what ways does this passage illustrate the principle of mercy over ritual, and how can this principle guide our actions today?

3. How does the role of Ahimelech as a priest inform our understanding of spiritual leadership and service to others?

4. Reflect on a time when you faced a desperate situation. How did you see God's provision, and how can this passage encourage you in future challenges?

5. How does David's experience in 1 Samuel 21:3 connect with Jesus' teaching in the New Testament, and what does this reveal about the continuity of God's character and principles?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Matthew 12:1-4
Jesus references this event when His disciples are criticized for picking grain on the Sabbath, highlighting the principle of mercy over ritual.

Psalm 34
Written by David during this period, expressing trust in God amidst fear and danger.

Leviticus 24:5-9
Describes the Bread of the Presence, its preparation, and its sacred purpose, providing context for David's request.