What role does seeking God's will play in decision-making, as seen in David's actions? David’s Pattern of Seeking the Lord – Before every major move in this chapter, David pauses to ask God what to do: • 1 Samuel 23:2 — “So David inquired of the LORD, ‘Shall I go and attack these Philistines?’ ‘Go and attack them,’ the LORD replied to David.” • 1 Samuel 23:4 — “Then David inquired of the LORD once again.” • 1 Samuel 23:9-12 — With the ephod in hand, David asks whether Saul will come and whether Keilah will betray him; the LORD answers both questions clearly. – This repeated consultation shows that divine direction, not mere instinct or strategy, governs David’s decisions. A Closer Look at 1 Samuel 23:25 “Saul and his men set out to seek him, and David was informed, so he went down to the rock and stayed in the Wilderness of Maon. And when Saul heard this, he pursued David into the Wilderness of Maon.” – David’s earlier inquiries (vv. 9-12) made him alert for God’s warning signals; when news comes, he moves immediately. – The text links God-given information (“David was informed”) with decisive action (“he went down to the rock”), underscoring that guidance is given to be followed, not merely admired. Principles for Our Decision-Making – God expects His people to ask: seeking His will is commanded, not optional (Psalm 105:4; Proverbs 3:5-6). – God answers specifically: David received clear yes/no guidance; the same God still gives wisdom (James 1:5). – Guidance and obedience travel together: once the direction is known, delay invites danger; swift obedience preserves and blesses (Luke 11:28). – Seeking precedes strategy: David plans after hearing from God, showing that the Lord’s word shapes, not merely rubber-stamps, our plans (Jeremiah 10:23). Supporting Scripture – Psalm 25:4-5 — “Show me Your ways, O LORD; teach me Your paths.” – Psalm 143:10 — “Teach me to do Your will, for You are my God.” – Isaiah 30:21 — “Your ears will hear this command behind you: ‘This is the way; walk in it.’” – John 10:27 — “My sheep listen to My voice; I know them, and they follow Me.” Living It Out – Cultivate the reflex of prayer before planning. – Expect specific, biblically consistent answers; measure impressions against Scripture. – Move promptly once God’s direction is clear; delayed obedience is disobedience in disguise. – Keep listening: fresh guidance meets fresh challenges, just as David inquired repeatedly. |
    |