How can we apply David's example of seeking God in our daily decisions? Setting the Scene 1 Samuel 23:10: “Then David said, ‘O LORD, God of Israel, Your servant has heard that Saul intends to come to Keilah and destroy the city on my account.’” David is cornered, people’s lives are on the line, and a wicked king is hunting him. His instinct is not to strategize first but to seek the Lord’s counsel. What David Actually Does • Turns immediately to God, naming Him “LORD, God of Israel,” anchoring his plea in covenant relationship. • States the threat plainly: “Saul intends to come.” No sugar-coating, no bravado. • Identifies himself humbly as “Your servant.” • Waits for God’s answer (see v.11–12) and adjusts plans accordingly. Principles for Our Daily Decisions • Seek God first, not as a last resort. – Proverbs 3:5-6: “Trust in the LORD with all your heart… in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.” • Be specific and honest about the situation. – Philippians 4:6: “In everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” • Approach Him as servants, not advisors. – Psalm 123:2: “As the eyes of servants look to the hand of their master… so our eyes look to the LORD our God.” • Wait for clear guidance before moving. – James 1:5: “If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God… and it will be given to him.” • Obey promptly once direction is given. – Psalm 119:60: “I hurried without hesitating to keep Your commandments.” • Keep coming back—guidance is ongoing, not one-and-done. – 1 Thessalonians 5:17: “Pray without ceasing.” Putting It Into Practice Today Work decisions • Pray before you answer the email, not after. • Ask, “Lord, is this promotion in Your plan or a distraction?” Family relationships • Bring parenting dilemmas to Him openly: “Father, how do I respond to this attitude?” • Let Scripture shape the tone before the conversation starts. Finances • Lay out the numbers and invite His wisdom. • If His Word cautions against debt, adjust—even when culture says “buy now.” Friendships & conflicts • Pause and seek Him before texting back. • Choose reconciliation methods that honor biblical peacemaking (Matthew 5:23-24). Scripture Reinforcements • Psalm 37:5: “Commit your way to the LORD; trust in Him, and He will do it.” • Isaiah 30:21: “Whether you turn to the right or to the left, 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.” Encouragement to Keep Going The same God who guided David in life-or-death situations delights to guide us in boardrooms, kitchens, classrooms, and checkout lines. Every decision—large or small—becomes an opportunity to acknowledge Him and watch Him straighten the path. |
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