Daily Devotional for Friday, August 4

The Cause of David's Fear

“And David sware moreover, and said, Thy father certainly knoweth that I have found grace in thine eyes; and he saith, Let not Jonathan know this, lest he be grieved: but truly as the LORD liveth, and as thy soul liveth, there is but a step between me and death,” I Samuel 20:3.

The Lord works closely and intricately in the lives of those who serve Him faithfully. Although He does not give His will through great visions or speak audibly in a thunderous voice, the way He works in the hearts and lives of His people is amazing, nonetheless. David had a close relationship with his Lord. He listened to the leading of the Spirit and the scripture tells us he behaved himself wisely and God was with him, guiding him every step of the way.

David was absolutely convinced of Saul’s intent to kill him if he were to attend the new moon feast. Although Jonathan attempted to persuade David otherwise, nothing could alleviate David’s fears. Therefore, a plan was put into place in which Jonathan would alert David as to Saul’s intent and demeanor during the feast, enabling David to escape if necessary. Not only was a bond of brotherly love deepened between them, but a covenant was made with Jonathan and the house of David. This covenant was kept by David in the beautiful story of Jonathan’s son, Mephibosheth (II Samuel 9:6-7). God’s mighty hand can be seen throughout this situation.

The Lord Jesus Christ will lead and guide your life just as He did for David, but it is vital to keep a close fellowship with Him. Pursue Him with your whole heart and commune with Him every day. Learn to listen to the Spirit of God leading you according to His will. He will give you warnings deep within when facing sinful or dangerous situations and He will lead you in the way of truth.

REFLECTION: “In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths” (Proverbs 3:6)

Darla Goodrum