David was greatly distressed because the men were talking of stoning him; each one was bitter in spirit because of his sons and daughters. But David found strength in the Lord his God. Then David said to Abiathar the priest, the son of Ahimelek, “Bring me the ephod.” Abiathar brought it to him, and David inquired of the Lord, “Shall I pursue this raiding party? Will I overtake them?” “Pursue them,” he answered. “You will certainly overtake them and succeed in the rescue.”
1 Samuel 30:6-8 NIV
Today’s reading is about David and his men returning home to Ziklag, after having lived in the Philistines land, to seek refuge and escape Saul’s never ending chase to kill David.
However, upon returning to Ziklag, they discovered that the place was burnt, their items were stolen, and their wives, sons and daughters were kidnapped.
Of course this was a difficult time and so David and his men wept aloud. His men got so bitter that they spoke about stoning David.
What did David do?
He turned to God, and found strength in him. He prayed to God and asked for direction. He then took action and led his men to pursue the offending party and successfully raided them and took back everything stolen, including their wives and children. What a story.
My reflection:
During hard times, it’s easy for us to blame the surroundings, to feel defeated and even to question God. Instead, David prayed. This is a reminder that in very difficult times, we must remember to seek God’s guidance. Then listen, trust God, and take action.
Let’s be like David. Let’s pray for guidance, and take action!
Leave a Reply