1 Samuel 18:14
And David behaved himself wisely in all his ways; and the LORD was with him.
Original Language Analysis
וַיְהִ֥י
H1961
וַיְהִ֥י
Strong's:
H1961
Word #:
1 of 7
to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)
לְכָל
H3605
לְכָל
Strong's:
H3605
Word #:
3 of 7
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
דָּרְכָ֖ו
in all his ways
H1870
דָּרְכָ֖ו
in all his ways
Strong's:
H1870
Word #:
4 of 7
a road (as trodden); figuratively, a course of life or mode of action, often adverb
מַשְׂכִּ֑יל
behaved himself wisely
H7919
מַשְׂכִּ֑יל
behaved himself wisely
Strong's:
H7919
Word #:
5 of 7
to be (causatively, make or act) circumspect and hence, intelligent
Cross References
Genesis 39:23The keeper of the prison looked not to any thing that was under his hand; because the LORD was with him, and that which he did, the LORD made it to prosper.Matthew 28:20Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.Joshua 6:27So the LORD was with Joshua; and his fame was noised throughout all the country.1 Samuel 16:18Then answered one of the servants, and said, Behold, I have seen a son of Jesse the Beth-lehemite, that is cunning in playing, and a mighty valiant man, and a man of war, and prudent in matters, and a comely person, and the LORD is with him.Acts 18:10For I am with thee, and no man shall set on thee to hurt thee: for I have much people in this city.Matthew 1:23Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us.1 Samuel 10:7And let it be, when these signs are come unto thee, that thou do as occasion serve thee; for God is with thee.
Historical Context
Court life in ancient monarchies required careful navigation of personal rivalries, political factions, and royal moods. Survival depended on reading situations accurately and responding appropriately. David's consistent success indicated both natural ability and supernatural guidance.
Questions for Reflection
- How do divine presence and human wisdom work together in your decision-making?
- What does David's consistent prudence teach about character in challenging environments?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
And David behaved himself wisely in all his ways; and the LORD was with him.
David's wise behavior (maskil) in all his ways combined with 'the LORD was with him' shows the partnership of human wisdom and divine presence. The Hebrew sakal indicates prudence, insight, and success. David navigated court politics, military command, and personal relationships with consistent wisdom. This pattern offers a model: divine empowerment does not replace the need for wise conduct but enables it.