"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." (1 Sam.30:6)
David was isolated. The men
under him blamed him bitterly for what they perceived as his failure to secure
their families and property. They had gone out on a war expedition only to be
turned back by the Philistine commanders in whose country they had sought
refuge. As they arrived home they found that an enemy had struck in the absence.
Their dwellings had been razed to the ground.
All their property was gone and their women and children taken
captive.David was greatly distressed.
Then in the midst of this doom and gloom we are told;
...but David found strength in the Lord.
What does this mean?
Simply that he pulled away from the men and from his present circumstances and turned to God instead.
When he shifted his focus from his predicament and turned to God he was able to re-establish his trust in God. He experienced a great release from despondency. His strength was thus renewed.
This was an act of the will
and you too can do it. In distressing circumstances you can determine to look
away from the source of your trouble and turn to God in prayer. This is an
ability that God has given to all his children.
Like David, tarrying in prayer will lift
your gloom. It will restore your confidence. You will discover anew
that you are not fighting alone. God is on your side.The apostle Paul talked of this when he wrote;
6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything,
by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And
the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts
and your minds in Christ Jesus. (Phi.4:6-7)
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