And David was greatly distressed; for the people spoke of stoning him, because all the people were bitter in soul, each for his sons and daughters. But David strengthened himself in the Lord his God.
1 Samuel 30:6, RSV*
The King James Version says “David encouraged himself in the Lord his God.” While David (not yet crowned king) and his men were away on a mission, enemies had sacked their town and taken captive all the women and children. No wonder he was “distressed”!
But he found courage – and strength – in the Lord his God.
How can we do that?
Stop, instead of jumping into action or into despair.
Look:
- at who God is
- at what He says
- at what He has done in the past
Listen: to what He says. Then, by faith, we can choose to obey Him, whether that’s in action or in waiting.
God our Refuge and our Strong Tower, help us trust You even when everything has gone wrong. Help us rely on You as our source of courage, strength, and hope. Quiet us to know Your presence. Work in our circumstances and in our hearts, to Your glory.
∞
Our song is from Austin Stone Worship: “You Never Change”
*Revised Standard Version (RSV) Revised Standard Version of the Bible, copyright © 1946, 1952, and 1971 the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved.