16 Now Saul's watchmen in Gibeah of Benjamin looked , and behold , the multitude melted away ; and they went here and there. 17 Saul said to the people who were with him, "Number now and see who has gone from us." And when they had numbered , behold , Jonathan and his armor bearer were not there. 18 Then Saul said to Ahijah , " Bring the ark of God here ." For the ark of God was at that time with the sons of Israel . 19 While Saul talked to the priest , the commotion in the camp of the Philistines continued and increased ; so Saul said to the priest , "Withdraw your hand ." 20 Then Saul and all the people who were with him rallied and came to the battle ; and behold , every man's sword was against his fellow , and there was very great confusion . 21 Now the Hebrews who were with the Philistines previously , who went up with them all around in the camp , even they also turned to be with the Israelites who were with Saul and Jonathan . 22 When all the men of Israel who had hidden themselves in the hill country of Ephraim heard that the Philistines had fled , even they also pursued them closely in the battle . 23 So the Lord delivered Israel that day , and the battle spread beyond Beth-aven .
Matthew Henry's Commentary on 1 Samuel 14:16-23
Commentary on 1 Samuel 14:16-23
(Read 1 Samuel 14:16-23)
The Philistines were, by the power of God, set against one another. The more evident it was that God did all, the more reason Saul had to inquire whether God would give him leave to do any thing. But he was in such haste to fight a fallen enemy, that he would not stay to end his devotions, nor hear what answer God would give him. He that believeth, will not make such haste, nor reckon any business so urgent, as not to allow time to take God with him.