1 Samuel 16:18

“Then answered one of the servants, etc.] Which the Jews say f330 was Doeg the Edomite, who out of envy and ill will to David spake of him, that Saul might have an opportunity of slaying him; but this is not at all likely; rather it was one of David’s friends and acquaintance, that was desirous of promoting him at court, and no doubt was directed to that motion by the overruling providence of God: and said, behold, I have seen a son of Jesse the Bethlehemite; he does not mention the name of his son, but so describes him, that he might be easily known by those who knew anything of the family of Jesse; besides it was sufficient that he was one of Jesse’s sons, to find him out: [that is] cunning…”

“A mighty valiant man ... - David’s reputation for courage, skill, discretion, and manly beauty, was already great. Since “the Spirit of the Lord came upon him,” his natural qualities and powers had been greatly enhanced. His feat of killing the lion and the bear (see the marginal references) had been performed, like Samson’s feats of strength Judges 14:6, Judges 14:19; Judges 15:14, under the same supernatural influence, and was probably more or less known. return to 'Top of Page'”

“Prudent - Wonder not, that David was so suddenly advanced, from a poor shepherd, to so great a reputation; for these were the effects of that Spirit of the Lord which he received when he was anointed. The Lord, &c. - That is, directs and prospers all his undertakings. 1 Kings (1 Samuel) 16:20”

“16:18 harp: The instrument was probably a lyre (as in 10:5). • the Lord is with him: People recognized that God’s Spirit was upon David (16:13).”

“a mighty: Sa1 17:32-36; Sa2 17:8, Sa2 17:10 and prudent: Sa2 14:20 matters: or, speech. a comely: Sa1 16:12 the Lord: Sa1 3:19, Sa1 10:7, Sa1 18:12-14; Gen 39:2, Gen 39:23; Mat 1:23, Mat 28:20 1 Kings (1 Samuel) 16:19”