John Gills Exposition of the Bible Commentary - 1 Samuel 18:5
And David went out whithersoever Saul sent him ,.... About any business whatsoever, especially about martial affairs, for which he was abundantly qualified: and behaved himself wisely ; in the management of them, using great prudence and discretion, and so failed not of success, and of recommending himself; the Targum renders it "prospering"; he was prosperous and successful in whatsoever he engaged, for the Lord was with him, and blessed him: and Saul set him over the men of war ;... read more
Matthew Henry's Complete Commentary - 1 Samuel 18:1-5
David was anointed to the crown to take it out of Saul's hand, and over Jonathan's head, and yet here we find, I. That Saul, who was now in possession of the crown, reposed a confidence in him, God so ordering it, that he might by his preferment at court be prepared for future service. Saul now took David home with him, and would not suffer him to return again to his retirement, 1 Sam. 18:2. And David having signalized himself above the men of war, in taking up the challenge which they... read more