Day 104 – 1 Samuel 21-24

Talking Points

• In these chapters, we see two sides of David. On one hand, he seems to be driven by fear. On the other, he operates in great faith. What a deep reminder of the human condition. Sometimes, fear and faith are only a step apart. If we are fearful, and even sinful in our lack of faith, that doesn’t have to be our end. We can remember God, and the same people once marked by fear can turn and operate in faith.
• David flees to a small town inhabited by priests. In fear, he deceives them, and they give him the consecrated bread and Goliath’s sword. How ironic this sword once taken in faith is now possessed in fear.
• Upon hearing of the act of the priests, Saul has them killed. David knows that it was his deception that has cost them their lives. What heartache this must have caused him. We should remember that our sinful actions always carry consequences for others.
• Saul proceeds, determined to kill David. Imagine being the object of a king’s wrath. An entire army is in pursuit of David.

Thoughts

Have you ever found yourself operating in your own logic, wanting to force your own timing, or seeking your own purpose, even when dealing with God? Have you ever said, “God, I trust You, but…”? Here is a great truth: To trust God is to defer to God. Quickly and completely.

In the midst of this pursuit, David finds himself with an opportunity to kill Saul. David’s men encourage him to do it. There is nothing stopping him. If he kills Saul, his problem is solved and his very life is saved. It makes perfect sense, and no one would blame him. And, yet, David spares Saul’s life. In submission to God, David refuses to take matters into his own hands. Instead of forcing his timing, he waits on the Lord. Instead of relying on his logic, he defers to God’s wisdom. And, instead of seeking his own good, he acts to honor God’s name. Simply and astoundingly, he defers to God. What a testimony!

Walking with God calls for us to trust Him. It will be His course, His pace, His purpose. We simply defer.

Lord, when we can’t understand, when we don’t like it, and when no one would blame us, help us to so trust You that we quickly and completely defer to You.