Definition: Now therefore send quickly, and tell David, saying, Lodge not this night in the plains of the wilderness, but speedily pass over; lest the king be swallowed up, and all the people that [are] with him.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from 2 Samuel 17:16. It’s a really important and dramatic passage about a man named David facing a dangerous situation. Here’s what it means in simple terms: The Basic Situation: David was being hunted: The verse immediately tells us that David is being pursued by enemies – likely Saul, who was the king at the time. He's been targeted and is in danger. A Warning: God is sending a message to David. He’s told to immediately leave his current location (the plains of the wilderness) and move quickly. “Lodge not…” - Don't Stay Here! This is the key part. It means "don’t linger." Don’t stay put in that area – don’t become a target. “This night” - Right Now! It’s being done now . There’s no time to waste. “Swiftly pass over” - Hurry, Quickly! David needs to get away as fast as possible. "Else..." – The Danger: “And lest…” This is a warning. If he doesn't leave quickly, there’s a very real risk of something terrible happening to him. He could be killed or harmed. What it Means on a Deeper Level: This verse speaks about divine protection and a safeguard God has put in place for David. It’s a message of protection . God is actively intervening to prevent harm to David, even though he’s facing this threat. It's a story about: God’s Sovereignty: God is the one who controls the situation and makes the decision to protect David. Divine Intervention: God isn’t just passively watching; He’s actively intervening to help David survive. In short, it’s a plea for safety and a reminder that God protects those who trust in Him. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the context of this passage within the larger story of David's life?