Fridays with David

Read 1 Samuel 23:26-29 – Then Saul went on one side of the mountain, and David and his men on the other side of the mountain. So David made haste to get away from Saul, for Saul and his men were encircling David and his men to take them. But a messenger came to Saul, saying, “Hurry and come, for the Philistines have invaded the land!” Therefore Saul returned from pursuing David, and went against the Philistines; so they called that place the Rock of Escape. Then David went up from there and dwelt in strongholds at En Gedi. (NKJV)

The strongholds of En Gedi--a cave-filled mountain--is a long way from a palace. David is trapped in the mountain, away from home, family, and friends and surrounded by men of foreign lands who are the only ones willing to resist Saul. It’s a recipe for discouragement. Such are the days of waiting for a promised throne. Many leaders become weary and frustrated on their road to leadership when the comforts that ought to accompany them are missing. Caves are places where depression and disappointment can overcome. But God’s greatest lessons almost always come in such wildernesses. To turn back when things are uncomfortable is to ultimately miss the destination God has planned. David not only stays true to God, but he gives his best to his current moment so God can prepare him for the future moments he longs for.

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