How can we recognize God's presence in our lives like David did? 1 Samuel 18:28—God’s Presence on Display “ ‘When Saul saw and realized that the LORD was with David, and that Michal, Saul’s daughter, loved him,’ ” • Even an enemy could not miss the unmistakable evidence that the LORD stood beside David. • The same LORD still makes His nearness clear today. What Marked God’s Presence for David • Anointing and the Spirit’s rush (1 Samuel 16:13) • Victory over Goliath through confident faith (1 Samuel 17:37, 45) • Consistent wisdom and success in every mission (1 Samuel 18:14) • Protection from repeated assassination plots (1 Samuel 19:10; Psalm 34:7) • Unlooked-for favor and covenant love from Jonathan and Michal (1 Samuel 18:1–4, 20, 28) • Ongoing growth in influence and stature (2 Samuel 5:10) Recognizing the Same Presence in Our Lives • Inner assurance of the Spirit—“The Spirit Himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children” (Romans 8:16). • Word-centered confidence—daily Scripture meditation brings prospering fruit (Joshua 1:8; Psalm 1:3). • God-given wisdom and skill—“If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God” (James 1:5); “David acted more wisely than all Saul’s servants” (1 Samuel 18:30). • Evident favor in work and relationships—“The LORD was with Joseph, and he prospered” (Genesis 39:2); love from others as with David. • Supernatural peace amid pressure—“The peace of God…will guard your hearts” (Philippians 4:7). • Timely protection and deliverance—“The angel of the LORD encamps around those who fear Him” (Psalm 34:7). • Growing Christ-like character—“The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace…” (Galatians 5:22-23). Practices That Heighten Awareness • Stay soaked in Scripture—God speaks most clearly through His written Word (Psalm 119:105). • Cultivate continual worship—God inhabits the praises of His people (Psalm 22:3). • Walk in obedience—“Whoever loves Me will keep My word, and My Father will love him, and We will come to him and make Our home with him” (John 14:23). • Lean on the Spirit’s power—“Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit” (Zechariah 4:6). • Acknowledge Him publicly—David credited every triumph to the LORD (1 Samuel 17:46-47). • Keep humble repentance—quickly turn from sin so fellowship stays unbroken (Psalm 51:10-12; 1 John 1:9). Living Daily in Confidence of His Nearness • Expect God’s active involvement in every task, just as David did on the battlefield. • Step out in faith, trusting promises like “I am with you always” (Matthew 28:20). • Give thanks for every evidence of favor, from small providences to great deliverances. • Let courage replace fear, remembering, “If God is for us, who can be against us?” (Romans 8:31). • View opposition as an opportunity for God to showcase His faithfulness, just as Saul’s hostility highlighted the LORD’s hand on David. |
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