Seeking God’s Agenda
The Philistines had arrived in the valley of Rephaim and raided it. So David asked God, “Should I go out to fight the Philistines? Will you hand them over to me?” The Lord replied, “Yes, go ahead. I will give you the victory.” . . . But after a while, the Philistines returned and raided the valley again. And once again David asked God what to do. “Do not attack them straight on,” God replied. “Instead, circle around behind them and attack them near the balsam trees.” 1 Chronicles 14:9-10, 13-14
Advertisement
Instead of making plans and asking God to bless them, David sought the Lord. Although he was a great leader who had enjoyed many successive victories, he took time to seek the Lord about how to proceed when facing his enemy. When he had soundly defeated the Philistines, he didn’t attack the same way again just because it worked the first time. Each attempted victory had a different plan.
Often, however, we devise a plan or follow a plan that worked five years ago and then ask God to support it. But that is altogether different from seeking God’s agenda and his will for a current battle or a new problem as David did—to inquire and ask God’s direction before we proceed with a plan. Whether you are dealing with a job or family issue, a puzzling dilemma, or a financial challenge, ask God what to do today. And just as the Lord answered David, he will show you the way.
Prayer:
LORD, I ask you concerning [insert situation] that I’m facing today; what should I do? I don’t want to run ahead of your plan. I want to follow David’s example and seek your wisdom first. Only then can I be sure that I will be following your plan. Guide my actions by your wisdom and truth.
Quotes:
ALL HEAVEN IS WAITING TO HELP THOSE WHO WILL DISCOVER THE WILL OF GOD AND DO IT.
J. Robert Ashcroft (1878–1958)
The One Year Bible Readings for today are: 1 Chronicles 12:19–14:17; Romans 1:1-17; Psalm 9:13-20 and Proverbs 19:4-5.
