When you are overwhelmed it is hard to think and often, we don’t know which way to turn. This can happen with a health problem, loss of a job, loss of a loved one, a broken relationship, or a pandemic. David had not foreseen having to be a man on the run just like we didn’t see a pandemic and social distancing coming. The storm in David’s life forced him to depend on God and we, too, need to depend on God in these times.
When life seems to be spiraling out of control, let the Lord and His Word be the anchor. When things get chaotic, God’s word reminds us that He is with us, in control, and stronger than all our problems. Jesus said in John 16: 33 And everything I’ve taught you is so that the peace which is in me will be in you and will give you great confidence as you rest in me. For in this unbelieving world you will experience trouble and sorrows, but you must be courageous, for I have conquered the world.[1]
In the story of David, his enemies were setting traps for him and he was praying for God to do something about it. Psalm 142: 5 So I cried out to you, Lord, my only hiding place. You’re all I have, my only hope in this life, my last chance for help. 6 Please listen to my heart’s cry, for I am low and in desperate need of you! Rescue me from all those who persecute me, for I am no match for them.[2]
And God answered him, in 1 Samuel 22 we find that David’s family joined him. Others who were not happy with the reign of Saul also came to him. David was able to shelter his elderly parents in Moab, the home country of his great-grandmother. Then Gad, a prophet came with a word from God. David, his brothers, and his friends were to return to Judah. There God would have more for them.
God never leaves our side. Psalm 145:18 You (Lord) draw near to those who call out to you, listening closely, especially when their hearts are true. 19 Every one of your godly lovers receives even more than what they ask for. For you hear what their hearts really long for and you bring them your saving strength.[3]
God will give you the strength you need to get you through this storm of the pandemic. Isaiah 41: 10 Do not yield to fear, for I am always near. Never turn your gaze from me, for I am your faithful God. I will infuse you with my strength and help you in every situation. I will hold you firmly with my victorious right hand.[4]
To hear more about David and how God helped him, listen here: https://podpoint.com/light-of-christ-church-podcast/series/david-and-his-songs-the-early-years/the-god-of-refuge
[1,2,3,4] The Passion Translation®. Copyright © 2017 by BroadStreet Publishing® Group, LLC.