Time and time again, God has been with David and delivered David from Saul's hand. However, in today's reading, we find David's faith falter, as he runs for protection to the Philistine territory. For some reason, although I've read these chapters before, I don't remember this story, so this was a fresh and sobering revelation to my eyes.
Here's what I read in Patriarchs and Prophets about David's move of unbelief:
"The Lord did not send David for protection to the Philistines, the most bitter foes of Israel. This very nation would be among his worst enemies to the last, and yet he had fled to them for help in his time of need. Having lost all confidence in Saul and in those who served him, he threw himself upon the mercies of the enemies of his people. David was a brave general, and had proved himself a wise and successful warrior; but he was working directly against his own interests when he went to the Philistines. God had appointed him to set up his standard in the land of Judah, and it was want of faith that led him to forsake his post of duty without a command from the Lord.
God was dishonored by David’s unbelief. The Philistines had feared David more than they had feared Saul and his armies; and by placing himself under the protection of the Philistines, David discovered to them the weakness of his own people. Thus he encouraged these relentless foes to oppress Israel. David had been anointed to stand in defense of the people of God; and the Lord would not have His servants give encouragement to the wicked by disclosing the weakness of His people or by an appearance of indifference to their welfare. Furthermore, the impression was received by his brethren that he had gone to the heathen to serve their gods. By this act he gave occasion for misconstruing his motives, and many were led to hold prejudice against him. The very thing that Satan desired to have him do he was led to do; for, in seeking refuge among the Philistines, David caused great exultation to the enemies of God and His people. David did not renounce his worship of God nor cease his devotion to His cause; but he sacrificed his trust in Him to his personal safety, and thus tarnished the upright and faithful character that God requires His servants to possess." (Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 672)
So how does this story apply to our lives? Are we valiant and strong for God until we grow too weary? When the long days and weary nights stretch on and there seems no deliverance from our oppressor, do we hold on in faith and trust God's hand, or do we finally relent and go running to our very enemy for protection? This is really the battle of faith! If our trials were short and pointed, we could endure... but they stretch on... in long days and longer years... and that's when we are tempted to give up or give in.
Dear Lord, help us learn from David's mistakes, and not take our eyes off You! Help us to remember that the same God who has brought us this far, will take us safely home. Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things unseen. Help us Lord, to hold on!
Tomorrow's Reading: 1 Sam. 29-31, and 1 Cor. 2
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