a piece of a fig cake and two clusters of raisins. So he ate and was revived, for he had not had any food or water for three days and three nights. a piece of a fig cake and two clusters of raisinsIn ancient Near Eastern culture, figs and raisins were common food items, often used for sustenance during travel or times of need. Figs and raisins are mentioned frequently in the Bible as symbols of provision and abundance (e.g., 1 Samuel 25:18, 2 Samuel 16:1). The offering of these foods to the Egyptian servant by David's men signifies an act of mercy and hospitality, reflecting the biblical principle of caring for the needy (Proverbs 19:17). This act also prefigures the provision of Christ, who is the Bread of Life, offering spiritual sustenance to those in need (John 6:35). So he ate and was revived for he had not had any food or water for three days and three nights Persons / Places / Events 1. DavidThe future king of Israel, who is leading his men in pursuit of the Amalekites who had raided Ziklag. 2. The Egyptian Servant A young man found in the field, abandoned by his Amalekite master because he fell ill. 3. Ziklag The town given to David by the Philistine king Achish, which was raided and burned by the Amalekites. 4. Amalekites A nomadic tribe that attacked Ziklag, taking captives and plundering the town. 5. David's Men The group of warriors loyal to David, who are with him in pursuit of the Amalekites. Teaching Points Compassion in ActionDavid's men demonstrate compassion by providing for the Egyptian servant's physical needs, reminding us of the importance of mercy and kindness. Revival through Provision The physical revival of the Egyptian servant after receiving food and water illustrates how meeting basic needs can lead to restoration and strength. God's Sovereignty in Circumstances The encounter with the Egyptian servant was providential, showing how God can use unexpected situations to fulfill His purposes. The Power of Generosity The act of giving, even to a stranger or enemy, can lead to unexpected blessings and alliances. Faith in Action True faith is demonstrated through tangible acts of kindness and provision for those in need. Bible Study Questions 1. How does the act of feeding the Egyptian servant reflect the biblical principle of loving your neighbor, and how can we apply this in our daily lives?2. In what ways does this passage demonstrate God's sovereignty and provision, and how can we trust God in our own challenging circumstances? 3. How can the account of the Egyptian servant inspire us to show compassion to those who are marginalized or abandoned in our society? 4. What are some practical ways we can ensure our faith is active and not just theoretical, as seen in the actions of David's men? 5. How does the revival of the Egyptian servant after receiving food and water parallel spiritual revival, and what steps can we take to experience spiritual renewal in our lives? Connections to Other Scriptures Matthew 25:35-40This passage speaks about the importance of caring for those in need, reflecting the compassion David's men showed to the Egyptian servant. Isaiah 58:7 This verse emphasizes sharing food with the hungry, paralleling the act of giving food to the Egyptian servant. Luke 10:33-34 The Good Samaritan account highlights the importance of showing mercy and compassion, similar to David's actions. Proverbs 25:21-22 Advises feeding your enemy if he is hungry, which aligns with David's treatment of the Egyptian, who was part of the enemy camp. James 2:15-16 Discusses the necessity of providing for physical needs as an expression of faith, akin to the care given to the Egyptian servant.
People Abiathar, Abigail, Ahimelech, Ahinoam, Amalekites, Caleb, Cherethites, David, Eshtemoa, Jerahmeelites, Jezreel, Jezreelitess, Jizreelitess, Kenites, Kerethites, NabalPlaces Besor, Bethel, Bor-ashan, Carmel, Egypt, Eshtemoa, Hebron, Hormah, Jattir, Negeb, Negev, Racal, Ramoth, Siphmoth, ZiklagTopics Ate, Bread, Bunch, Bunches, Cake, Cakes, Clusters, Drank, Dried, Drink, Drunk, Dry, Eaten, Eateth, Fig, Fig-cake, Figs, Grapes, Nights, Piece, Pressed, Raisin-cakes, Raisins, Returneth, Revived, SpiritDictionary of Bible Themes 1 Samuel 30:11-12 4293 water Library At the Front or the Base'As his part is that goeth down to the battle, so shall his part be that tarrieth by the stuff.'--1 Samuel xxx. 24. David's city of Ziklag had been captured by the Amalekites, while he and all his men who could carry arms were absent, serving in the army of Achish, the Philistine king of Gath. On their return they found ruin, their homes harried, their wives, children, and property carried off. Wearied already with their long march, they set off at once in pursuit of the spoilers, who had had a … Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture The Secret of Courage The Statute of David for the Sharing of the Spoil Thirdly, for Thy Actions. The Bright Dawn of a Reign Canaan Appendix 2 Extracts from the Babylon Talmud Samuel Links 1 Samuel 30:12 NIV1 Samuel 30:12 NLT 1 Samuel 30:12 ESV 1 Samuel 30:12 NASB 1 Samuel 30:12 KJV 1 Samuel 30:12 Commentaries Bible Hub |
    |