April 19, 2017. 1 Samuel 28-31, Psalm 18.

 

In these chapters, David and his men are marching with the Philistines to battle with Saul.  The Philistine rulers however are concerned about where David’s loyalties lie and demand he be sent back and sit out of the fighting.

David could not understand why this was happening.  He had been doing everything right.

1 Samuel 29:8

“But what have I done?” asked David. “What have you found against your servant from the day I came to you until now? Why can’t I go and fight against the enemies of my lord the king?”

David and his men were ready to fight.  They wanted to be a part of the battle, but the were sent back to their land.

As it so happens, while they were away the Amalekites had raided their lands and taken their women and children (including David’s own).  David sought out the Lord for guidance on what to do.  God replied to pursue them.

David and his men were able to catch up to the Amalekites and got back every single person and belonging they had stolen.  What do you suppose might have happened it they had stayed and participated in the battle against the Israelites?

God is constantly working in the lives of His children.  Have you had your heart set on an opportunity and it seems like you keep getting turned away from it?  David had similar struggles.  He was always quick to bring those struggles to the Lord for help, and you know what?  God listened; every time.

Psalm 18:6

In my distress I called to the Lord;

    I cried to my God for help.

From his temple he heard my voice;

    my cry came before him, into his ears.

Remember that God is always in control.  You may not understand why He is leading you in a direction you did not plan on going, but it might be so you end up right where you need to be at the right time.  Let the doors close that need to be closed.