Verse of the Day: 1 Samuel 23:14, And David stayed in strongholds in the wilderness, and remained in the mountains in the Wilderness of Ziph. Saul sought him every day, but God did not deliver him into his hand.
What a wonderful reminder we find here. What reminder you ask? The reminder that God is in control. Yes, even though there may be time when it seems like life is out of control, we can be assured that God is ALWAYS in control. The best example I can think of was recorded for us in the Book of Job. On the surface, the story of Job seems like one of tragedy, but in reality it is a story of God’s glory. Although Job suffered much loss, there was never a moment, not even a second, when God was not fully aware of what was happening or in complete control of the circumstances. Even Satan would not dare cross the boundaries that God set during Job’s ordeal (Job 1:12; 2:6). The greatest comfort we have as born again believers is the fact that God is always with us and will never forsake us (Hebrews 13:5-6). Not only is He always with us, but He is always in control and works all our circumstances, trials, and tribulations for our good and His glory (Romans 8:28-29). No matter how much Saul attempted to trap David and his men, his efforts proved to be fruitless and a waste of time. Saul’s responsibility was supposed to be to carry out his duties as king over Israel, as this was the purpose God set him on the throne for. Instead, because of his pride and jealousy, Saul sought after his own plans of trying to capture and kill David. God was having none of it. Proverbs 19:21 clearly states, “There are many plans in a man’s heart, nevertheless the Lord’s counsel—that will stand.” This should serve as a warning to us and to those who seek our harm. Nothing, absolutely nothing, will be accomplished in all our planning and scheming, unless the Lord allows it. This should also bring those of us who are born again children of God much peace. It should comfort us in knowing that nothing will touch us that must first meet God’s approval, and if it does, it means that God is allowing it for a reason and will see us through it. Ultimately, whatever He does allow He will use to teach us something about Him and our relationship with Him. He may be teaching us something about our faith and our walk with Jesus that needs to change, or He may be preparing us and strengthening us for future service to Him. The bottom line is that no matter what happens in our lives, we can be assured of one thing, the things that happen will happen only if God allows them. When those difficult times come knocking on our door, remember what God recorded for us in Isaiah 41:10, “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.”
Today, God extends an invitation to you to accept His free gift of salvation (Rom 6:23). Will you accept it? Anyone who calls on Jesus, by faith, in repentance, confessing your sins, will receive eternal life. Do not put off calling on Him, and receive Him and His free gift of salvation today (Rom 10:13).
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