1 Samuel 30:6 Meaning and Explanation
“And David was greatly distressed; for the people spake of stoning him, because the soul of all the people was grieved, every man for his sons and for his daughters: but David encouraged himself in the LORD his God.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →With his men threatening to stone him in their grief, David strengthens himself in the LORD his God.
What Does 1 Samuel 30:6 Mean?
David's distress doubles: not only has he lost his family, but his own men, maddened by grief for their sons and daughters, speak of stoning him. The bitterness of the people turns on their leader. Then comes the hinge of the whole chapter — but David encouraged himself in the LORD his God. With no human comfort left, he turns to God.
This single sentence is one of the great turns in all of Scripture. When every support fails and even his companions become a threat, David does not collapse and does not lash out; he strengthens himself in the LORD. Faith is shown not in the absence of distress but in where the soul turns within it. Here is the path for every believer at the end of their resources: not away from God, but into Him.
1 Samuel 30:6 in the Original Language
The verb behind 'encouraged himself' (חָזַק, chazaq) means to grow strong or take firm hold — David lays hold of God for strength.
Frequently Asked Questions About 1 Samuel 30:6
What does 1 Samuel 30:6 mean?
With his men threatening to stone him in their grief, David strengthens himself in the LORD his God.