To David such an inquiry should have come as a stunning rebuke. He was entirely out of place in the camp of the enemies of his own people. He should not have sought refuge among the Philistines in the first place. The step had been taken without seeking divine guidance. Now the crisis was approaching. David was in great straits. He had no desire to take up arms against his brethren.

What a contrast there must have been between Achish’ expression of confidence in David’s ability and trustworthiness and the latter’s estimate of himself as he looked back on his duplicity and dishonesty! God pities those in perplexity and distress! He tenderly opens the door of escape that men may not be left wholly to the consequences of their conduct. He mercifully changes foolish blunders into steppingstones to success! Those who are willing to accept divine guidance in all humility, will find deliverance coming from unexpected sources in unlooked-for ways, and in the darkest hours of their experience. In the demand of these Philistine lords for the ousting of David from the camp, God was working for the deliverance of His servant.