It was a low point in David’s life, even before he gained the throne of Israel. He had led a raid on his enemies, only to return home to discover that his outpost had been attacked and his own wives and children kidnapped.
David’s men began to grumble against him, suggesting that he was not worthy of their loyalty, since their own wives and children also had been seized.
You can read the story 1 Samuel 30, which tells us (v. 6) that “David was greatly distressed, for the people spoke of stoning him because all the people were bitter in soul, each for his sons and daughters. . .”
Imagine it. Near mutiny. Where do you turn for comfort? The verse tells us: “But David strengthened himself in the Lord his God.”
What can that mean?
First, David does not draw on his own resources, such as self-confidence or his fighting ability. He does not plead his past leadership record or make excuses, as we are tempted to do. He does not pull rank, put down, bluff, or intimidate.
Instead, he does something you may not at first attribute to the mind of a warrior. He turns from the battle at hand to enlist the ultimate Resource and Power, and he does so almost automatically, as if he’s been here before. If you’ve read 1st Samuel, you know he had been.
Once again, when the chips are down in your own life and things look dark, what do you do? Where do you turn? What would it mean for you to strengthen yourself in the Lord your God?
The implications are huge and life changing. It means. . .
Trusting God, not your wits or ideas.
Believing God’s promises never to leave you or forsake you.
Knowing that whatever happens has not taken Him by surprise.
Acting in the confidence that God is working all things for your good.
Resting in God’s love and care.
Taking time to think and pray.
Refreshing yourself in God’s presence.
There is a store of spiritual resources which unbelievers can’t even imagine and from which many believers seldom draw. But that store is tapped daily by those who know that Jesus is the Vine and we are branches. God’s very life and energy flow through Him. John 15
Read the rest of the story and see that faith is neither passive nor fatalistic, but rather active and grounded in God who is trustworthy. Then, realize that same God is there for you.
“He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High
will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.
I will say of the Lord, He is my refuge and my fortress,
my God, in whom I trust.”
Psalm 91:1, 2