“Now there was a long war between the house of Saul and the house of David; and David grew steadily stronger, but the house of Saul grew weaker continually. Sons were born to David at Hebron: his firstborn was Amnon, by Ahinoam the Jezreelitess; and his second, Chileab, by Abigail the widow of Nabal the Carmelite; and the third, Absalom the son of Maacah, the daughter of Talmai, king of Geshur; and the fourth, Adonijah the son of Haggith; and the fifth, Shephatiah the son of Abital; and the sixth, Ithream, by David’s wife Eglah. These were born to David at Hebron.” 2 Samuel 3:1-5

David was in the middle of a civil war with the northern tribes of Israel. God had led David to Hebron. Hebron is a Sanctuary, a place of refuge. These places of refuge were certain cities allotted to Israel under the law to be places of safety. This is a picture of God’s graceful and merciful protection for David.  Hebron is where God guided him, and he would have his first six children.  How is it that during a time of tumult and danger, David could spend time starting a family? The Answer: he had found peace in God, his Refuge.

Psalm 5:11 “But let all who take refuge in You be glad, let them ever sing for joy; and may You shelter them, that those who love Your name may exult in You.” (NASB)

Psalm 9:9 “The LORD is a refuge for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble.” (NIV)

David had learned to take refuge in God. Even though he was beset on all sides by enemies, he had found peace and solidarity in God’s power that is echoed in the Psalms he wrote. He may have drawn on past encounters and how God had continually delivered him from enemies. Perhaps he was reminded of how God delivered him from hardship or provided for him in times of need. What we do know is that David was at peace, and God protected him. He felt so much at peace with God that he started a family and had children. He knew God would protect him and his family.

Later on, in the chapter of 2 Samuel 3, we will see that God simply delivers the kingdom of Israel into his hands. David would do little to make this happen. It isn’t even recorded that he participated in the fighting during the civil war. A scenario simply plays out that is only something that could have happened by God’s hand. You will see that God was also working in the background through the elders of Israel. David saw none of this going on, but he knew God would deliver him.

God protects. God provides. God directs and guides us. Look to your Hebron. Look to God, who is our sanctuary and refuge. Look to how He has provided, delivered, shown mercy, sheltered, and guided you. Your Hebron may not be the ideal city or the Jerusalem He has planned for you, but He is providing safety for you and your family.