How can we seek God's guidance when facing adversaries, as David did? Setting the scene in 1 Samuel 23 • David is hiding in the Wilderness of Ziph while Saul schemes with the Ziphites: “Please go and make sure once again. Investigate where he usually journeys and who has seen him there, for I have been told that he is very cunning.” (1 Samuel 23:22) • Scripture presents this as literal history, recording both Saul’s plots and David’s responses so we can learn from them today. How David sought God’s guidance • He asked before he acted. “So David inquired of the LORD, saying, ‘Shall I go and attack these Philistines?’ … The LORD answered, ‘Go…’” (23:2) • He asked again when unsure. “Once again David inquired of the LORD…” (23:4) • He got specific. “Will Saul come down? … Will the leaders of Keilah surrender me?” (23:10–12) • He used the means God provided—the priest Abiathar and the ephod (23:6, 9). • He obeyed immediately, even when the answer meant more running (23:13–14). • He trusted God’s protection, not his own strategy (23:14–15). Principles for seeking guidance when adversaries press in • Start with surrender: admit His wisdom surpasses ours (Proverbs 3:5–6). • Ask specifically: name the threat, the decision, the fear (James 1:5). • Listen through Scripture: God’s written Word is our primary guidance (Psalm 119:105). • Seek godly counsel: David had the prophet Gad and the priest Abiathar (Proverbs 15:22). • Watch providence: God confirmed His counsel through circumstances (23:11–13). • Obey promptly: the next step becomes clear after we act on the light we have (John 13:17). Promises to anchor our hearts • “I will instruct you and teach you the way you should go; I will give you counsel and watch over you.” (Psalm 32:8) • “He is a shield to all who take refuge in Him.” (Psalm 18:30) • “Put on the full armor of God, so that you can make your stand against the devil’s schemes.” (Ephesians 6:11) A simple daily rhythm to follow 1. Pause and acknowledge God’s sovereignty. 2. Read a portion of Scripture, asking, “What does this reveal about my situation?” 3. Pray specifically about today’s adversary or challenge. 4. Note any Scripture, counsel, or circumstance that aligns. 5. Act in faith on the guidance received. 6. End the day recounting how God led and protected—just as He did for David. |
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