David was greatly distressed because the men were talking of stoning him; each one was bitter in spirit because of his sons and daughters. But David found strength in the LORD his God.
1 Samuel 30:6 NIV
During a portion of David’s life, he lived as an outlaw. Hunted by King Saul and forced to flee into Philistine territory to escape. About 600 other men had joined him, and they lived by raiding neighboring people. But one day, the tables were turned, and David and his men returned to find that they were the victims of a raid. All of their families and possessions had been carried off
David’s men were understandably upset and seemed to blame David for their misfortune. They even talked of stoning him. This was clearly a low point in David’s life, and likely the source of one or more of his psalms.
But David did not despair. Instead, he found strength in the Lord. He knew the situation was more than he could handle alone. But David had learned that his God was sufficient for all things. David inquired of God about his course of action. And he followed God’s direction. As a result, he recaptured all that had been lost, plus additional booty.
Few of us lead outlaw rebel bands. But all of us face challenging times in our lives. And when those times come, how do you face them? Do you wallow in despair? Try to muddle through on your own? Or find strength in the Lord? Trust in the Lord. He will not fail those who put their trust in Him.
