Old Testament
1 Samuel 23:10
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In 1 Samuel 23:10, David is acutely aware of the peril he faces as King Saul plots to attack the city of Keilah.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Samuel, Nathan, and Gad
- Written
- Around 930 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- The Israelites of the early monarchy
Then David prayed, "LORD, God of Israel, your servant has heard for certain that Saul plans to come to Keilah and destroy the city because of me."
Then said David, O LORD God of Israel, thy servant hath certainly heard that Saul seeketh to come to Keilah, to destroy the city for my sake.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In 1 Samuel 23:10, David is acutely aware of the peril he faces as King Saul plots to attack the city of Keilah. Feeling a sense of responsibility for the people there, David turns to God in prayer, seeking divine guidance and clarity in this moment of crisis. His prayer reveals his deep reliance on God, showcasing the importance of honest communication with the Lord. David acknowledges his role as a servant, which emphasizes humility and trust in God's plan. This interaction reflects a personal relationship with God, where David earnestly seeks intervention in his time of need. It serves as a reminder that we can bring our fears and concerns to God, trusting that He hears us and cares for our situations. David's example encourages us to seek God's wisdom and protection, especially when we feel vulnerable or threatened. His prayer is a powerful testament that we are not alone in our struggles, and that God is always present to listen and guide us through difficult times, just as He did for David.
Related Bible verses
How to apply 1 Samuel 23:10 to your life
When you encounter challenges, remember to turn to God in prayer. Share your fears and concerns openly, just as David did. Trust that God is listening and will provide the guidance you need. This practice can strengthen your relationship with Him and bring peace during tough times. Stay humble and seek His wisdom in all situations you face.
Curated for this public verse page. 1 Samuel Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does 1 Samuel 23:10 mean?
1 Samuel 23:10 shows David's awareness of the danger he faces from King Saul, who intends to attack the city of Keilah. David's prayer reflects his reliance on God for guidance and protection during this crisis.
What is the significance of David praying in 1 Samuel 23:10?
David's prayer in 1 Samuel 23:10 highlights his humility and trust in God. It demonstrates the importance of seeking divine guidance in times of trouble and shows that he values his relationship with God.
How does 1 Samuel 23:10 relate to trusting God?
1 Samuel 23:10 emphasizes the theme of trusting God in difficult situations. David's prayer signifies his belief that God will provide the wisdom and protection he needs against Saul's threat.
What can we learn from David's prayer in 1 Samuel 23:10?
From David's prayer in 1 Samuel 23:10, we learn the importance of bringing our fears and concerns to God. It encourages us to communicate openly with Him and seek His guidance during challenging times.

The Book of 1 Samuel
1 Samuel 1: The Birth of Samuel
The book opens during the time of the judges, introducing a man named Elkanah with two wives, Hannah and Peninnah. While Peninnah has children, Hannah is barren and is cruelly taunted by her rival. During their annual pilgrimage to the sanctuary at Shiloh, the deeply distressed Hannah prays silently to the Lord, weeping and vowing that if God will give her a son, she will dedicate him to the Lord's service for his entire life as a Nazirite. Eli, the high priest, sees her lips moving and initially mistakes her for a drunken woman, but after she explains her sorrowful prayer, he blesses her, saying, "Go in peace: and the God of Israel grant thee thy petition."
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