9 David knew that Saul was plotting evil against him; and he said to Abi'athar the priest, "Bring the ephod here." 10 Then said David, "O Lord, the God of Israel, thy servant has surely heard that Saul seeks to come to Kei'lah, to destroy the city on my account. 11 Will the men of Kei'lah surrender me into his hand? Will Saul come down, as thy servant has heard? O Lord, the God of Israel, I beseech thee, tell thy servant." And the Lord said, "He will come down." 12 Then said David, "Will the men of Kei'lah surrender me and my men into the hand of Saul?" And the Lord said, "They will surrender you." 13 Then David and his men, who were about six hundred, arose and departed from Kei'lah, and they went wherever they could go. When Saul was told that David had escaped from Kei'lah, he gave up the expedition.
Matthew Henry's Commentary on 1 Samuel 23:9-13
Commentary on 1 Samuel 23:7-13
(Read 1 Samuel 23:7-13)
Well might David complain of his enemies, that they rewarded him evil for good, and that for his love they were his adversaries. Christ was used thus basely. David applied to his great Protector for direction. No sooner was the ephod brought him than he made use of it. We have the Scriptures in our hands, let us take advice from them in doubtful cases. Say, Bring hither the Bible. David's address to God is very solemn, also very particular. God allows us to be so in our addresses to him; Lord, direct me in this matter, about which I am now at a loss. God knows not only what will be, but what would be, if it were not hindered; therefore he knows how to deliver the godly out of temptation, and how to render to every man according to his works.