When the Philistines heard that the Israelites had gathered at Mizpah, their rulers marched up toward Israel. When the Israelites heard about it, they were afraid because of the Philistines.

Nahash the Ammonite marched against Jabesh Gilead. All the men of Jabesh Gilead said to Nahash, "Make a treaty with us and we will serve you."

Saul and all the troops with him assembled and marched to the battle, and there, the Philistines were fighting against each other in great confusion!

David marched out with the army and was successful in everything Saul sent him to do. Saul put him in command of the soldiers, which pleased all the people and Saul’s servants as well.

So Saul removed him {from his presence}, and made him commander of a thousand, {so he marched in and out at the front of the army}.