Read 1 Samuel 23:1-2 – Then they told David, saying, “Look, the Philistines are fighting against Keilah, and they are robbing the threshing floors.” Therefore David inquired of the Lord, saying, “Shall I go and attack these Philistines?” And the Lord said to David, “Go and attack the Philistines, and save Keilah.” (NKJV)

Fridays with David

God’s directive to David seems odd since David is not king and, technically, not responsible for protecting Israel’s cities. But God wants to create something in David so He directs him to do what is right, even when it isn’t his responsibility. David’s men are afraid and likely don’t understand his sense of responsibility, but God’s plan is clear. So David attacks the Philistines and saves a people that are otherwise never mentioned in the biblical account. What David does for these unknowns is critical to God’s plan for him and for Israel. That’s the way God works in us too. He leads us in steps we don’t always understand, but He knows what’s up ahead and how today’s victories will be important when we get there. Our job is to trust Him and to walk where He leads.

– Dr. Mike Clarensau serves as Senior Director of the Healthy Church Network of the Assemblies of God.