Daily Readings: 2 Samuel 5 and Psalm 82
When David was about 15 years old, Samuel had anointed him to be God’s chosen king of Israel. For the next 15 years he had entered a long season of preparation and “training”. He had served Saul humbly with his music and his military prowess – never even thinking of taking the throne by force. He had been compelled to flee from the jealous violence of Saul, lived in the wilderness, pretended to be mad, and found shelter in caves. Twice, when he had simple opportunities to take Saul’s life, he had spared him. And eventually, after a decade and a half had passed, God brought David to the throne. He even enabled David to accomplish the seemingly impossible and capture the great Jebusite fortress called Jerusalem, which would become known as the City of David.
God had allowed a 15-year period of preparation for a 40-year rule. When we battle through long seasons of struggle and apparently pointless difficulties, instead of losing heart and believing that God has abandoned us to a frustrating fate, let us consider that God’s hand will always be at work in the midst of those difficulties, to prepare us for the effective and fruitful service He has in store for us in the future. As Romans 8:28 says: “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.”
Heavenly Father, thank You for always being with me, and always being at work in me for my greater good and Your greater glory. Today, please help me to endure whatever difficulties I face with a confident hope and an absolute trust in Your ability to turn them around for my good. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.
Dave's Diary 