1 Samuel 23:1-5
Most of us go through times of spiritual barrenness. David was no exception. A quick study of 1 Samuel 22 reveals that David was at his lowest ebb, and desperately needed guidance from God.
God Is the Source of All Guidance: v. 1-2a
“When David was told, ‘Look, the Philistines are fighting against Keilah and are looting the threshing floors,’ 2he inquired of the Lord, saying, ‘Shall I go and attack these Philistines?'”
1. Pray with your eyes wide open . Proverbs 29:13
2. Listen with complete attention . Isaiah 58:11
“God can be depended upon.”
-George Washington Carver
Faith Is the Key Ingredient for All Guidance: vv. 2b-3
“…The Lord answered him, ‘Go, attack the Philistines and save Keilah.’
3″But David’s men said to him, ‘Here in Judah we are afraid. How much more, then, if we go to Keilah against the Philistine forces!'”
1. Faith is gained through studying God’s Word . Proverbs 3:5-6
2. Confidence is developed through seeking God’s will . James 4:15
3. Direction is received through praying for God’s wisdom . James 1:5
“Prayer is an indispensable factor in the understanding of the Lord’s will for our lives. He who never prays for direction will never know the certainty and joy of divine guidance.”
-Stephen Olford
Revelation Is Given in the Light of Our Daily Devotions: vv. 4-5
“Once again David inquired of the Lord, and the Lord answered him, “Go down to Keilah, for I am going to give the Philistines into your hand.”
5″So David and his men went to Keilah, fought the Philistines and carried off their livestock. He inflicted heavy losses on the Philistines and saved the people of Keilah.”
A New Testament Model for Guidance
Colossians 3
1. Keep your eyes on the prize . Colossians 3:1-4
2. Keep your feet on the path . Colossians 3:5-14
3. Keep your heart in perfect peace . Colossians 3:15-16
“I have always taken counsel of Him, and referred to Him my plans, and have never adopted a course of proceeding without being assured as far as I could be of His approbation.”
-Abraham Lincoln
