But although David's faith had staggered somewhat at the promises of God, he still remembered that Samuel had anointed him king of Israel. He recalled the victories that God had given him over his enemies in the past. He reviewed the great mercy of God in preserving him from the hand of Saul, and determined not to betray a sacred trust. Even though the king of Israel had sought his life, he would not join his forces with the enemies of his people.

Skønt David ikke havde næret urokkelig tillid til Guds løfter, glemte han ikke, at Samuel havde salvet ham til konge over Israel. Han mindedes de sejre, som Gud havde givet ham over hans fjender i fortiden. Han så også tilbage på den store nåde, som Gud havde vist ham ved at redde ham fra Sauls hånd, og tog den beslutning, at han ikke ville vise sig en så stor tillid uværdig. Selv om Israels konge havde stræbt ham efter livet, ville han ikke slutte sig til sit folks fjender.