But all Israel and Judah loved David, because he went out and came in before them.
To go out and come in before the people was to lead Israel and Judah in their campaigns, sharing their common life and their dangers. David had been entrusted with important responsibilities, which he managed with wisdom and skill. His counsel was wise and discreet and safe to follow. Despite those responsibilities, he remained modest.
Because of such conduct and recognized ability as a leader, all Israel and Judah loved him. He also gained the affection of the royal household. His reliable leadership stood in contrast to Saul, whose judgment and decisions were sometimes unreliable. The esteem and affection in which the people held David made Saul afraid to harm him openly.
To go out and come in before the people was to lead Israel and Judah in their campaigns, sharing their common life and their dangers. David had been entrusted with important responsibilities, which he managed with wisdom and skill. His counsel was wise and discreet and safe to follow. Despite those responsibilities, he remained modest.
Because of such conduct and recognized ability as a leader, all Israel and Judah loved him. He also gained the affection of the royal household. His reliable leadership stood in contrast to Saul, whose judgment and decisions were sometimes unreliable. The esteem and affection in which the people held David made Saul afraid to harm him openly.