Friday, April 20, 2012

SOAP 04/20/2012; 1 Samuel 23:22

Today's reading: 1 Samuel 23; Psalm 31; Psalm 54; Matthew 7
     
S)"22 Go now, make more sure, and investigate and see his place where his haunt is, and who has seen him there; for I am told that he is very cunning."
     
1 Samuel 23:22 (NASB)
     
O) So, Saul has a whole nation out seeking David's life and yet he keeps escaping. In this particular chapter (and in the related Psalms above), we see David's actions are repeatedly preceded by inquiries to the LORD. What Saul fails to see is that, David is not cunning, exactly, so much as he is wise for inquiring of the LORD. So, while Saul is continually frustrated by the acts of David and his men, he is still blind to the spiritual and the fact that the LORD is working to deliver David, and instead he sees things in the physical, surmising that David is simply cunning.
     
A) Being cunning in battle or business, by the world's standards, is quite the admirable quality. But here we see the contrast, the deeper and more valuable quality. First, I want to have the wisdom to seek the LORD during conflict and uncertainty. Second, and just as importantly, I want to have the discernment to realize when the LORD is directing me and those around me. I never want to be out of the loop. So, ultimately, inquiring of the LORD and awaiting His reply is of the utmost importance, both offensively and defensively, so to speak.
     
P) Father, You are wise and all-knowing. You have an eternal perspective and Your timing is perfect. All of this makes it abundantly clear that I need to be continually seeking out Your will for every situation. Whether I'm trying to accomplish something, or trying to protect something, I need to be sure that I am seeing through Your eyes. Holy Spirit, open my ears to hear Your voice clearly, to know Your will and direction. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.

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