Do you really want it your way or God's way?

In Chapter 30, David returns to Ziklag and finds that his land has been burned and all of their families have been taken captive. He seeks guidance from the Lord on what actions to take and then heads off in pursuit of the enemy. In the meantime, they come across a survivor who was left behind by the enemy responsible for this destruction. This scenario can be found in 1 Samuel 30:11-15.

They found an Egyptian in the open country and brought him to David. And they gave him bread and he ate. They gave him water to drink, and they gave him a piece of a cake of figs and two clusters of raisins. And when he had eaten, his spirit revived, for he had not eaten bread or drunk water for three days and three nights. And David said to him, "To whom do you belong? And where are you from?" He said, "I am a young man of Egypt, servant to an Amalekite, and my master left me behind because I fell sick three days ago. We had made a raid against the Negeb of the Cherethites and against that which belongs to Judah and against the Negeb of Caleb, and we burned Ziklag with fire." And David said to him, "Will you take me down to this band?" And he said, "Swear to me by God that you will not kill me or deliver me into the hands of my master, and I will take you down to this band." — 1 Samuel 30:11-15

David's encounter with the abandoned Egyptian slave is a striking example of God's providence. After seeking God's guidance, David didn't just rush into action blindly. He trusted in God's plan—and that trust was met with provision he could not have foreseen. The Egyptian, left for dead by his Amalekite master, became the key to victory. Without this man's inside knowledge, David might have struggled to locate the enemy or reclaim what was stolen.

This moment reminds us of how God works in ways we often cannot predict. When we seek God first, as David did, his answers will come but not always as thunderous proclamations. Sometimes, they come through unexpected people, problems, or promptings that steer us toward his purpose.

In times of distress, I'm quick to handle problems my way instead of seeking God's way.

How often do you do this?

David's story teaches us the importance of seeking God first, then walking in faith, and discovering God's way. God's way is better than your way. When we do it in God's way, his providence shows up in little ways along the way. It could be in a conversation with a stranger who emerges at the right time.

So, if you are in distress today, stop doing it your way and do it God's way. Consult him first, take steps of faith, and look for his providence along the way, and victory will be his through you.

#TrustGodFirst, #DivineProvidence, #FaithInAction

Ask This:

1. What situation in your life needs you to pause and seek God's guidance before taking action?
2. How can you remain attentive to God's unexpected provisions during your faith journey?

Do This:

Just do it God's way.

Pray This:

Lord, help me to seek You first in every challenge and trust in Your perfect plan. Open my eyes to see Your providence along the way. Amen.

Play This:

The Jesus Way.