1 Samuel 21:13

Feigned himself mad. A second error for which there is no justification (see chapter 21:2). The results of this experience led David to see the necessity of placing greater dependence upon God. In his new relationship his heart was filled with thanksgiving, and in his praise to God he was inspired to compose the 34th psalm. Some place David’s composition of the 56th psalm during his first visit to the king of Gath. It is probably better to assign it to the time of David’s second visit, after Saul had so relentlessly pursued him that he almost despaired even of life itself (see chapter 27).

In times of great personal temptation and trial, when enemies are exalted and friends are debased, when no matter which way one moves he is deprived of the counsel and help he needs, it is well to review the narrative of David’s escape from Saul, his contact with Ahimelech and Doeg at Nob, and his flight to the enemies of Israel at Gath, and then to read his inspired song of thanksgiving (Psalm 34) thought to have been composed at that time.