How can we apply David's example of inquiry to our personal challenges? Setting the Scene “During the reign of David there was a famine for three successive years, and David sought the face of the LORD. The LORD said, ‘It is on account of Saul and his bloodstained house; it is because he put the Gibeonites to death.’” (2 Samuel 21:1) David’s Reflex of Inquiry • David did not rely on guesswork or human strategy; his first impulse was to “seek the face of the LORD.” • He believed God would speak clearly and literally about the cause of the famine—and God did. • Instead of blaming circumstances or people, David went straight to the One who oversees all events. Lessons for Our Personal Challenges • Acknowledge God’s Sovereignty – Every crisis has a spiritual dimension. Like David, we assume God knows the root and the remedy. • Seek God First, Not Last – Troubles tempt us to consult experts, friends, or social media. David reminds us that divine counsel precedes human counsel. • Expect Specific Guidance – The Lord named Saul’s sin with precision. We can trust Him for concrete answers when we listen. • Respond in Obedience – David took immediate steps (vv. 2-14). Inquiry is incomplete without action that aligns with God’s revealed will. Practical Steps to Seek the Lord Today 1. Set Apart Time • Turn off distractions and approach God with a willing heart (Psalm 46:10). 2. Open Scripture Expectantly • God’s Word is “living and active” (Hebrews 4:12); read until a passage arrests your attention. 3. Ask Directly • “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God” (James 1:5). Be specific about your challenge. 4. Listen and Note • Keep a journal; record impressions, verses, or circumstances that point to God’s answer. 5. Confirm and Act • Align what you sense with clear biblical teaching (Proverbs 3:5-6), then obey promptly. Encouragement from Other Scriptures • 1 Samuel 30:8—David inquired of the LORD before pursuing the Amalekites and received victory. • 2 Samuel 5:19, 23—Two separate battles, two separate inquiries, two distinct strategies from God. • Psalm 32:8—“I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with My eye upon you.” • Isaiah 30:21—“Your ears will hear this command behind you: ‘This is the way; walk in it.’” Wrapping Up David’s example in 2 Samuel 21:1 shows that seeking God’s face is not a last-ditch effort but a first response. He trusted the literal truthfulness of God’s voice and acted on it. When we face relational tension, financial strain, or health uncertainties, we can mirror David’s reflex—inquiring of the Lord, expecting clear direction, and obeying whatever He reveals. |
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