The hand is a very important part of the body. It is also a symbol of God’s care for his people. In a number of ways we can see it in this passage. Firstly, there is his guiding hand. The anointed king, David, inquired of God before making major decisions. In doing this he was protected from making big mistakes.

Secondly, there is his strengthening hand. David didn’t know when or how the fulfilment of God’s intention to make him king would take place. David had also learned that the existing king, Saul, was coming to kill him. Then we see David’s friend, Jonathan, comes to him, in God’s providence, and reassures him that he will not die and that he will be king over Israel.

Finally, there is God’s delivering hand. Just as Saul is closing in on David he receives news that the Philistines are raiding the land. Saul breaks off his pursuit of David and escapes to the strongholds of En Gedi. Here is a beautiful picture of the deliverance Jesus provides. Through His pierced hands and body, which were nailed to the cross as a substitute, prisoners of sin are set free.