1 Sam 30 started with what seems like a loss. The Amalekites raided Ziklag before David and his men arrived. They took all the women and the children, including David’s two wives. They burned down the place. David and his men were shaken. They wept. The people wanted to stone David.
In that hopeless situation, David inquired of the Lord. He did not give up. God did not give up on David. Upon receiving confirmation from God, David led his men to pursue the enemies with the help of an Egyptian slave. They found the enemies scattered and celebrating, not ready for a fight. This could be a discussion for another day. David and his 400 (200 were too tired to continue) men routed the Amalekites and “none of them got away.” They rescued everyone captive.
Faith Plus Action. Faith without work is dead. David sought God’s guidance. Once he got it, he took action. Faith is not passive. It should not be. Our faith in God should inspire us to take responsibility and to act within our means. Prayer and action should go hand in hand. Talk to the Grab rider about Jesus. Pray for a colleague. Ask whether they want to know Jesus – they could have been waiting to say yes!
Be Consistent. Davod was consistent in his walk with God. When he was in distress, he sought the Lod. When he beat the enemies, saved the woman and children, retrieved all the live stocks, he did not let it get into his head. David demonstrated the faith of a person who is obedient to God in all aspects of his life.
Trust in God’s Faithfulness. Despite the earlier devastation, David ultimately recovered everything. He “brought everything back.” When we do not see the light at the end of the tunnel. When there seems to be a dead end. When we cannot see how we can continue. Trust God. He is faithful.
Have you experienced a devastating loss? How did you handle it and move forward? What challenging situations in your life right now require both prayer and action? What is an action or two you have been putting off repeatedly?
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