Lessons for Monarchs in Waiting

1 Sam 22:1-2

1. David therefore departed thence, and escaped to the cave Adullam: and when his brethren and all his father's house heard it, they went down thither to him.
2. And every one that was in distress, and every one that was in debt, and every one that was discontented, gathered themselves unto him and he became a captain over them: and there were with him about four hundred men.

Lessons

-Running away does not change the idea that you are anointed to perform a task.
-Your place of escape could serve as a meeting place and point of restoration for your family.
-You must be practical in dealing with the three dimensions. Distress, Discontent and Debt.

History

The story takes us through the development of the nation and its leaders and helps create a backdrop from which we can understand the method God will use to communicate to his people.

We watch the transition of power from one Priest to another (Eli to Samuel 1 Samuel 4:21) and the amazing process by which a whole generation is skipped (Hophni and Phinehas- 1 Samuel 2:34). There is a story or reference in some earlier books which points to the value that God places in the priesthood and the suddenness of his judgments (Lev.10:1-3)"I will be sanctified in them that come nigh me, and before all the people i will be glorified.And Aaron held his peace"
Also present is the rise of Israel first King (Saul), and the method by which his successor (David) is groomed.

There is a sense of sorrow in the heart of God as he proclaims to Samuel, "they have not rejected thee, but they have rejected me, that i should not reign over them" (1 Samuel 10:7b).  There were similar sentiments when God made the attempt to speak to the people at an earlier time: "Speak thou with us, and we will hear: but let not God speak with us, lest we die" (Exodus 20:19-21).

The people have progressed from a time of crisis (and possible slavery) and watched a shepherd boy slay a giant. The boy has moved from lowly living to the court of the King and even won the affection of the King's son. An overflow of emotion leads to his expulsion from the presence of the King-the inevitable effect of having oil on his head (1 Samuel 16:13).

With some fresh memories of all this and disappointments too David finds himself restored to his family albeit in terrible circumstances.

1 Samuel 30:3-7,19

...behold, it was burned with fire; and their wives, and their sons, and their daughters, were taken captive.
6.  And David was greatly distressed; for the people spake of stoning him, because the soul of all the people was grieved, every man for his sons and for his daughters.
19.  and David recovered all that the Amalekites has carried away; and David rescued his two wives

Lessons

-Wage war but make sure that you protect your base of operations.
-Your most vulnerable members may often be used against you-protect them.
-Trust your maker to help you rescue those in your team who may be held as captives.