Day 82
Observation
After a brief delay to deal with the Philistine problem, Saul returns to take up the pursuit of David. His renewed zeal nearly pays off as he unknowingly traps David and his men in a cave. Then miraculously the tables are turned as David stands poised over the sleeping form of Saul with the power of life and death in his hand. And though vengeance is within his reach, David refuses to lift his hand against the lord's anointed king. Again in chapter 26 the scene is repeated, this time in the wilderness of Ziph. Once again David must make a choice. Once again the source of David's anxiety is only a sword's trust away. And once again David resists the temptation to play the role of God by snuffing out Saul's life.
Application
If circumstances alone formed the basis for determining the will of God, then Saul's life would have ended in chapter 24 and Nabal's would have come to an equally abrupt end in chapter 25!
If counsel alone revealed God's will in a particular situation, then Abishai would have convinced David to rid himself of Saul once and for all in chapter 26.
But there is something more! Opportunity alone does not constitute the will of God. The counsel of others taken by itself is insufficient to determine God's will. These things must be balanced with the character and commands of God as revealed in his Word. David knew the principle well that vengeance and recompense are to be left to God (Deuteronomy 32:35, Romans 12:19).
Have other wronged you and then placed themselves in a vulnerable position where it would be easy for you to get even? Try this instead. Look for a way to repay evil with good (Roman 12:21), and by an act of the will leave the settling of accounts with God.
If counsel alone revealed God's will in a particular situation, then Abishai would have convinced David to rid himself of Saul once and for all in chapter 26.
But there is something more! Opportunity alone does not constitute the will of God. The counsel of others taken by itself is insufficient to determine God's will. These things must be balanced with the character and commands of God as revealed in his Word. David knew the principle well that vengeance and recompense are to be left to God (Deuteronomy 32:35, Romans 12:19).
Have other wronged you and then placed themselves in a vulnerable position where it would be easy for you to get even? Try this instead. Look for a way to repay evil with good (Roman 12:21), and by an act of the will leave the settling of accounts with God.
Prayer
Dear God, we know vengeance is yours and that we are suppose to love our enemies. It is hard but by obeying your word and practice it becomes easier to do. And as a result we feel good about ourselves when we love and forgive our enemies. Thank you for your Word and the Holy Spirit to guide us helping us to enjoy a fulfilling life while we wait for your return. In Jesus name, amen!
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| Love your Enemies |
© Odessa Mathis about my Father's business! 2019
