1 Chronicles 14:8 - Meaning and Application

This story of David’s victory over the Philistines is very much the same as the account in (2 Samuel 5:17) and following. Let the Philistines’ attack on David warn us not to feel safe in any settled life or promotion. Even when things seem peaceful, something may still rise up to trouble us. In this world, Christ’s kingdom will also be opposed by the serpent’s offspring, especially when that kingdom is making progress.

Let David’s repeated asking of God, in the face of the Philistines’ invasion, teach us to acknowledge God in everything we do. In trouble, we should run to him. When we are treated unfairly, we should appeal to him. When we do not know what to do, we should ask for counsel from his word, place ourselves under his guidance, and ask him to show us the right way.

Let David’s success encourage us to stand against our spiritual enemies, following God’s direction and relying on his strength. Resist the devil, and he will flee, just as the Philistines fled from David. Let the sound of marching in the tops of the mulberry trees teach us to watch for God’s moves, both in his providence, his care and rule over events, and in the work of his Spirit. When we see God going before us, we should get ready, put on our spiritual armor, and follow him.

Let David’s burning the gods of the Philistines, after they fell into his hands, teach us to feel a holy anger against idolatry, worshiping anything in place of God, and against every leftover trace of it. Let David’s thankful way of giving God credit for his victories lead us to bring all our praise to God’s altar. “Not to us, O Lord, not to us, but to your name give glory.”

Let the honor David gained, not only in his kingdom but also among his neighbors, remind us of the greater honor of the Son of David, Jesus Christ, who was lifted up in glory (1 Chronicles 14:17). The fame of David spread everywhere, and people admired him in all lands. The Lord also made all nations fear him. They saw him as a dangerous enemy and a valuable ally. In the same way, God has highly exalted our Redeemer and given him a name above every name.