2 Chronicles chapter 13 verses 3 – 4 (NIV)
Let us bring the ark of our God back to us, for we did not inquire of it during the reign of Saul.” The whole assembly agreed to do this, because it seemed right to all the people.
2 Chronicles chapter 14 verses 8-10 (NIV)
When the Philistines heard that David had been anointed king over all Israel, they went up in full force to search for him, but David heard about it and went out to meet them. Now the Philistines had come and raided the Valley of Rephaim; so David inquired of God: “Shall I go and attack the Philistines? Will you deliver them into my hands?”The LORD answered him, “Go, I will deliver them into your hands.”
Although David did seek God’s will whilst Saul was King of Israel, he didn’t get the chance to enquire of the Ark whilst on the run. But that was Saul’s issue too – he didn’t enquire of God, and that was part of his disobedience. But David wanted to do things properly and enquire of the Ark as God had intended.
However, the thing that stuck me most today was the fact that when the Philistines heard that David was now king, they went to look for him in full force. David was not intimidated by this; in fact he went out to meet them, and he asked God what to do next.
As a consequence of Jesus sacrifice, we can have direct access to God to seek His will and His help. When we are faced with difficulties, we don’t need to run from them, or be anxious. We should be able to do as David did – face them directly but with God’s direction and help, not in our own strength.
Dear Lord,
Thank You for reminding me that I can face difficulties and hardship under your direction and guidance. I’m grateful that I don’t need to do anything under my own steam. Thank you, Jesus, for making that possible. Amen.