The elders of Israel initially sought a king so as to have someone lead them in battle against their enemies (1 Samuel 8:20).1 Following the death of Saul, it appears as if there had been a desire among them for David to be king rather than Ish-bosheth.
17 And Abner conferred with the elders of Israel, saying, “For some time past you have been seeking David as king over you.