Matthew Henry Presbyterian @wholebiblehenry

Here is, I. David absconding. He abode in a wilderness, in a mountain (Sa1 23:14), in a wood, Sa1 23:15. We must here, 1. Commend his eminent virtues, his humility, modesty, fidelity to his prince, and patient attendance on the providence of his God, that he did not draw up his forces against Saul, fight him in the field, or surprise him by some stratagem...

Commenting on 1 Samuel 23:14-18

John Gill Reformed Baptist @doctorgill

And they two made a covenant before the Lord,.... Renewed the covenant they had before made in the name and fear of God, and before him as a witness of it. Kimchi and Abarbinel interpret this phrase: before the Lord, of the covenant being made before Abiathar, with the Urim and Thummim in his hand; and so Jerom (p), before Gad the prophet, and Abiathar...

Keil & Delitzsch Lutheran @keilanddelitzsch

1Sa 23:18-20 After these encouraging words, they two made a covenant before Jehovah: i.e., they renewed the covenant which they had already made by another solemn oath; after which Jonathan returned home, but David remained in the wood. The treachery of the Ziphites forms a striking contrast to Jonathan’s treatment of David.

Commenting on 1 Samuel 23:18-20