A common misinterpretation is to see this as mere political pragmatism where the people elevate David solely for his proven military leadership under Saul, overlooking the explicit divine promise quoted by the elders that God Himself appointed David to feed and rule Israel; another error is applying it to justify self-promotion or rebellion against established authority by claiming past successes imply divine endorsement, ignoring the context of prophetic anointing and covenantal timing in Israel's monarchy.
II Samuel 5:2
King James Version (1769)
2 Also in time past, when Saul was king over us, thou wast he that leddest out and broughtest in Israel: and the Lord said to thee, Thou shalt feed my people Israel, and thou shalt be a captain over Israel.
This passage captures the pivotal moment when the elders of Israel acknowledge God's prior designation of David as their shepherd and captain, affirming that even during Saul's reign David had effectively led Israel in battle, fulfilling the Lord's command; it underscores the divine sovereignty in establishing leadership, transitioning the united kingdom to David as the anointed king who would guide God's people with pastoral care and military prowess.