David and his men faced their worst nightmare when they arrived home and found a burned-out village and that their wives and children were gone. Thankfully, they didn’t come home to dead bodies, too. There was hope they were alive.
David’s men were furious and blamed David for this misfortune. It was time for David to turn to God rather than try and take matters into his own hands. He called for the ephod from the priest so he could be sure the word was truly from God. And God said, “Go!”
When I think of how frantic they must have been. The reassuring word from God had to have a big impact. Still, there was the matter of finding where they had gone and taken the hostage families. Then we see God at work.
The Egyptian man was used by God — some might even call him an angel — to bring David and his men into contact with those who had taken their loved ones. That foreigner had been left to die by the very same people who had stolen David’s community. We see definite fear on the part of the Egyptian man. Yet he agreed to help David, and we see God’s fingerprints.
David assures him successfully, and the rescue is also a success. “Nothing was missing: small or great, son or daughter, nor anything else that had been taken. David brought everything back.” Just as God had said. Did David ever doubt God’s word? Maybe even a little?
Maybe I’m just cynical because of the day and age we live in. I do the very best I can to trust God for his provision and direction in my life. Yet there are times when I’m uncertain and feel like I’m being tested. What is the purpose of each heartache or trial? Sometimes I don’t know until years later.
I’ve known for nearly twenty years that God never wastes a hurt. You’ve probably heard me say that before. I suppose it helps when you’re going through a tough spot. Just knowing that God is going to work something beautiful out of the hardship makes it easier to endure. I feel sad for people who don’t have that hope in God.
We might not face a nightmare like David and his men did that day, but we have our own struggles to overcome. How do you handle yourself when things don’t go the way you expected or you face the potential of extreme loss?
Worst case scenarios don’t always transpire. Many times we find we have wasted precious time worrying that our worst nightmare will happen. I know I have dwelt for way too long on things I have no control over, only to have absolutely nothing happen. I can remember feeling foolish for that, too!
I cling to the hope we are given that no matter what, nothing can separate us from God’s love. Jesus says in John 10:28, “I give them eternal life, and they will never perish. No one can snatch them away from me.” Trust in a God that loves you like that.
Let’s pray …
Lord, I am feeling so grateful for your love for me. It’s sometimes hard for me to feel worthy of such a gift. Help me to be the child of God you created me to be. Help me focus on the things you want for me. Bring people into my life ready to connect and feel your love, too. I love you, Lord. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
