Be encouraged

February 27-28

Be Encouraged  

“David was greatly distressed … but … found strength in the LORD his God.” 1 Samuel 30:6

When I read about the life stories of God’s heroes and heroines of faith, their lives often sound like roller coaster rides at an amusement park. Often they begin as Joseph, Daniel, David, Gideon or Peter did, in very lowly places, and end up in places of great influence, but it’s never a completely smooth ride. Their life stories often take sharp turns, around unexpected sharp corners, dips through dark valleys, followed closely by exhilarating and breath-taking descents and jarring stops. Yet through it all we find Gods hand in the midst of it all.

Personally, I’m not a fan of roller coaster rides! I much prefer the consistent pace of the Ferris Wheel, with its scenic views and predictable pace. For most of us though, life has the unpredictability of a roller coaster. This was certainly the case with David in the Old Testament.

We first hear about David as a young man, caring for his father’s sheep. The prophet Samuel anoints him as King Saul’s successor, unbeknown to Saul of course, who ends up conscripting David into his service. Following the killing of the nine-foot giant Philistine, known as Goliath, David becomes a mighty warrior.

Then David’s life takes a turn. He loses his favor with Saul and becomes hunted prey. Mighty men support David in the wilderness, while others betray him. His first wife is taken from him, and his life is filled with constant moving and intrigue. Here begins David’s roller coaster ride. During this season in his life, David’s beloved friend Jonathan finds David and ‘helped him find strength in God’ (1 Samuel 23). What joy and courage it must have brought to David to see Jonathan again and to be reminded of God’s promises for his life! Jonathan encouraged David to not be afraid (even though, humanly speaking, he had every reason to be fearful), and to keep his eyes on God, who could be trusted to fulfil His purposes.

We all need Jonathan-type people in our lives, who speak words of life into our doubting and fearful hearts. I thank God for such people. Sometimes we can encourage ourselves and other times we need the help and encouragement of those who have struggled with similar difficulties and found answers. Jonathan coming was such an encouragement to David, but a time would come where David would find himself totally alone. It was here, bereft of human friendship and support, that David had to find his strength in the Lord his God (See 1 Samuel 30:6). Likewise, sometime during our life, we too will share David’s experience. Yet in these moments, we should take a page from David’s book and encourage ourselves in God.

As David did, find your strength in the Lord.