Reading the Bible through with me? Then grab your pen and journal and let's finish 1 Samuel. Read chapters 28-31. David was experiencing an extraordinary amount of stress throughout much of 1 Samuel. But never had he been under more stress than in 30:1-6. David and his mighty men of valor had left their town of Ziklag to join the Philistines in a battle against the Hebrews. Though King Achish was agreeable, his military leaders rejected David, fearing that he would turn on them in battle.
David and his men returned to Ziklag to find the city destroyed and all women, children, and older adults taken captive by the Amalekites. For the first time, David found himself facing a mutiny. In fact, his men began talking about killing him. But notice where his strength came from. He found strength in the Lord his God. He sought out the priest, Abiathar, and ephod used by the priest to understand God’s plans. Then he prayed, seeking God’s direction and intent on obeying God’s words. God provided him with an Egyptian guide and gave David victory over the Amalekites. All the people and possessions were recovered.
God will sometimes use adversity to get our attention, reveal our pride, confront our sins, strengthen our faith, equip us to comfort others, prepare us for future ministry or clarify our strengths and weaknesses. But ultimately, His purpose for adversity is to make us more like the Lord Jesus (Romans
8:28-29). Whatever you are going through right now, remember . . . It's temporary AND it has purpose. (Psalm 34:19). Trust and obey! And find strength in the Lord your God. When times are tough, draw near to God and He will draw near to you. (James 4:7-8)
