What lessons can we learn from David's desire to consult God? Setting the Scene David is newly crowned king over Israel. His first major initiative is to bring the ark of the covenant—symbol of God’s presence—back to the center of national life. He recognizes that during Saul’s reign the people failed to seek the Lord. Scripture Focus “Let us bring back the ark of our God, for we have not inquired of Him since the days of Saul.” (1 Chronicles 13:3) Key Observations • David identifies a spiritual neglect: Israel had ceased consulting God. • He links God’s presence (the ark) with God’s guidance. • The statement is corporate—David includes himself with the nation, modeling humble leadership. • David moves quickly to correct the neglect, making worship and inquiry first priorities of his reign. Life Lessons for Today • Prioritize God’s presence: keep communion with the Lord central rather than peripheral. • Seek guidance before acting: decisions gain clarity and blessing when preceded by prayerful inquiry. • Recognize neglect and repent promptly: spiritual course corrections restore fellowship and direction. • Lead others toward God: personal desire for God influences families, churches, and communities. • Remember that past failure is not final: a new chapter opens when God is earnestly consulted. Connected Scriptures • 1 Samuel 23:2–4 “David inquired of the LORD…”—consistent practice in David’s life. • 1 Samuel 30:8 David “inquired of the LORD, saying, ‘Shall I pursue…’” and received victory. • Proverbs 3:5–6 “In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.” • Psalm 27:8 “My heart said, ‘Seek His face.’ Your face, O LORD, I will seek.” • Joshua 9:14 The Israelites “did not inquire of the LORD” and suffered the Gibeonite deception. • 1 Chronicles 15:13 Later David notes disaster struck “because you did not carry it the first time,” underscoring the cost of neglecting divine instruction. Putting It into Practice • Schedule daily time to seek the Lord through Scripture and prayer before tackling responsibilities. • Weigh every significant decision—family, work, ministry—in light of biblical principles and prayerful dependence. • Cultivate a home and church environment where seeking God is normal, not occasional. • Regularly review past choices, confess any moments of self-reliance, and realign with God’s will. • Celebrate answered guidance, reinforcing faith that God honors those who inquire of Him. |
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