When life goes bad

David strengthened himself in the Lord his God. — 1 Samuel 30:6

Everything looked bleak to David and his men when they arrived at Ziklag (1 Sam. 30:1-6). The Amalekites had attacked the city and taken their wives and children captive. The men were so discouraged that they wept until they had no more energy. And David, their leader, was “greatly distressed” because the people were contemplating stoning him (v. 6).

In the end, David’s army rescued their families and defeated the Amakelites. But the story takes a great turn even before that when “David strengthened himself in the Lord his God” (v. 6). Other translations use the words encouraged or refreshed.

The text doesn’t say exactly how David did this. But it makes me wonder, In what ways can we strengthen, encourage, or refreshed ourselves in the Lord when we’re feeling discouraged?

First, we can remember what God has done. We can list the ways He has cared for us in the past, and how He has provided for us or answered a prayer request.

Second, we can remember what God has promised. “Be strong and of good courage; . . . for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go” (Josh. 1:9).

Like David, let’s learn to strengthen ourselves in the Lord, and then let’s leave the rest with Him. — Anne Cetas

“I will strengthen,” so take courage,

Child of God, so weak and frail.

God has said so, and it must be,

For His promise cannot fail! — Anon.

READ: 1 Samuel 30:1-6

Our greatest strength is often shown in our ability to stand still and trust God.

The Bible in one year:

• Genesis 16-18

• Proverbs 3:11-26