david replica bust
|

Praying Even When You Think You Know the Answer (1 Sam 30.8)

David inquired of the LORD, “Shall I pursue this band? Shall I overtake them?”

Background

David and his men have been living in Philistine lands, in an uneasy alliance. He has, however, gained the respect of a Philistine leader, Achish. Still, he is only among them because Saul has been trying to capture or kill him.

When the Philistines decide to attack northern Israel, David takes his men to where the Israelite army is assembled. But the leader refuses to let him fight among them—he says that Saul would never stand for it. David obeys and takes his men back to their foreign homes. When they arrive, Achish tells David that he is not welcome there either! Though Achish trusts him, the rest of the Philistines are not willing to go to war against Israel with an Israelite among them who is renowned for his battle skills.

We can imagine, based on David’s words, that he was frustrated and even angry. He was a man of God, loyal to Israel, and the next king as anointed by God. Yet, he cannot find a way to get into the battle and fight for Israel—neither side wants him.

Meaning

There may be times where we think we are sure we know what God wants us to do. It is obvious. We can see where the good would be done, justice would be served, compassion extended. And yet it’s not happening.

might we be wrong about what is so obvious to us? We must admit that God has a different viewpoint. When we find ourselves in such a situation, how do we respond in prayer?

Join us on Patreon to read the full study of this prayer.

Similar Posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *