Hospitality in the Days of David and His Men

In the days when David fled before Saul, and his men gathered in the wilderness, there was a sacred law of hospitality that bound the hearts of strangers and friends alike. For in those times, the wayfarer was to be welcomed, the weary given shelter, and the hungry fed, as it is written, “Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares” (Hebrews 13:2).

David and his mighty men knew well the customs of their fathers. In caves and encampments, they shared bread and water, offering what little they had to one another. The bonds of brotherhood were strengthened by the generous hand, and the tent flap was never closed against a supplicant in need.

The Scriptures recount how Abigail, wife of Nabal, brought food and drink unto David and his men, turning away wrath with her gift and wise counsel (1 Samuel 25). Her hospitality was not merely of food, but of peace, an offering unto the Lord that preserved life and honored His ways.

In those days, hospitality was a covenant—an act of mercy and faithfulness. The stranger was received as one sent by God, and the host became a guardian of life and blessing. This sacred duty was a testimony of God’s love, as the Psalmist declares, “The Lord is good to all: and his tender mercies are over all his works” (Psalm 145:9).

Let us learn from the example of David and his men, who amid trials and flight upheld the law of kindness. May we too open our hearts and homes, remembering that in the giving of hospitality, we serve the Lord Himself (Matthew 25:35).

Thus, hospitality in the days of old was more than custom—it was a living testimony of God’s covenant with His people, a reflection of His boundless grace and enduring mercy.