“And David became more and more powerful, because the Lord God of Heaven’s Armies was with him.” 2nd Samuel 5:10
Have you ever heard these words, ”You will never make it”. David was made king after the tribes of Israel all united. The Jebusites were problematic so David planned to attack them. They mocked and said: “you will never get here”. David had learned to involve God in his decision making. He captured the fortress of Zion which is now called “The city of David”. The Lord God of Heaven’s Armies was with him.” The All Powerful, God, knows how to fight and defeat our enemies. The planned water tunnel attack was most appropriate. The Omnipotent God is in control and always has the best strategy for our enemies no matter how intimidating they may appear! The secret here is in listening and waiting on Him in obedience.
Subsequently, the Philistines heard that David had been anointed king, so they mobilized all their forces to capture him. David had the intentional practice of asking the Lord what he should do each time he had to face the enemy? David was called “a man after God’s own heart” (1 Samuel 13:14). He was informed about the attack, so he went to the stronghold! Verse 19 says: “So David asked the Lord, “Should I go out to fight the Philistines? Will you hand them over to me?” The Lord answered, “Yes” go ahead. He then defeated the Philistines. There was no panic instead, he intently looked to the Lord for victory and gave credit to the Lord.
Why should I ask God what to do? Well, the enemy never gives up, he has the habit of coming again and again! But we have to remain vigilant! The Philistines returned again and spread across the valley, so David asked the Lord what to do. “Do not attack them straight on, “the Lord said. Instead circle around behind and attack them, the Lord is ahead of you to strike down the Philistine army. Obedience led to victory! He paid close attention and was given understanding for a different approach. God’s ways are limitless. Listening and obedience ends up in victory each time and this can apply to us all!
The good news is that we can learn from David’s example of faith, trust and humility. Even though he made some terrible decisions, he took responsibility which was a sign of integrity. He earnestly looked to God and asked for help. Although there were consequences, God still responded and showed David the right way.
Dear Lord, teach me to listen and be attentive to your voice when you speak and walk in obedience.
Reflect:
How can you take a step of obedience today to listen to God and do what He says?
I’m learning so much about trusting God, applying scripture to my life, and putting on the “armor of God” each day (Ephesians 6).
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