Abiathar the son of Ahimelech

There was one survivor of Doeg’s massacre, Abiathar the son of Ahimelech. He came to David and reported that Saul had ordered Doeg to kill the priests. (1) Upon hearing this tragic report, David acknowledged that he bore a significant part of the responsibility. As we previously learned, this led to him writing Psalm 52. While it’s true that David was at fault, his actions were also used to bring about God’s judgment on the house of Eli (this does not, however, lessen David’s sin). (2) David immediately offered protection to Abiathar, guaranteeing his safety. (3) Let’s focus on David’s faith. He said, “Stay with me; do not be afraid, even though he who is seeking my life is seeking your life. For you are safe with me.” David was confident of God’s protection over him and that anyone who stayed with him would be safe. We have the Lord Jesus, who came as the son of David. If we are with the Lord Jesus, our life is kept safe. Are you seeking help from the Lord Jesus and walking within His protection? “For the Scripture says, ‘Whoever believes in Him will not be put to shame’” (Rom. 10:11).

David protecting the priest

Thus, Abiathar, the sole survivor of the house of Eli, came under David’s protection. Normally, it is the king’s duty to protect the priests, but this role shifted from king Saul to the fugitive David. As a result, David was able to inquire of the Lord’s will through the priest. Here, we can see God’s wonderful hand of providence at work. “And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose” (Rom. 8:28). This is true even today. What we need to do is to continue loving God. Did you know that God has a plan over your life?