05/03/2021 - DAVID INQUIRES THE LORD AGAIN

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Then David inquired of the Lord once again. And the Lord answered him and said, “Arise, go down to Keilah. For I will deliver the Philistines into your hand.” 1 Samuel 23:4

We have reasons to believe that David inquired the Lord again because his warriors almost started a rebellion after the decision was taken in his previous inquiry. David knew something wasn’t right, so in order not to make decisions on his own, he sought the Lord Almighty. We won’t always be surrounded by people who are spiritually prepared, that’s why we must be cautious.

No rebellion should be welcomed. When someone in church rises against others, especially against leaders, it means the enemy is interfering. If we accept the evil one’s plans, God won’t direct us, because He doesn’t share His glory with anyone else: I am the Lord, that is My name; And My glory I will not give to another, Nor My praise to carved images. (Isaiah 42:8)

Solve your unresolved matters immediately, because if an evil seed flourishes, it could damage God’s work. If someone disagrees on a direction the Lord gives to a given leader, they should speak to that person and solve the problem. If after talking, the divergence continues, God should be consulted again. This measure must be taken to solve conflicts and to end roots of bitterness.

When the Lord confirmed His instruction, David ended his debts and demanded that his men would go fight for Keilah, and they obeyed him. However, David had to be firm when they divided the spoils from another battle, against the Amalekites (1 Samuel 30:20-25). A leader cannot be afraid of acting, or the work will suffer because of it. If there are scornful people, they should be dealt with.

Under the direction of the Lord, we shouldn’t allow the wicked to take us away from our goals or to spoil the mission of heaven. Be careful! That’s very important, because when we’re not vigilant, evil expands. Those who love must be firm. If they leave things for later, it could be too late. Would anyone agree with what’s wrong? Only if they’re practicing sin!

David knew the enemy would influence the people. Because of that, as a pastor of that group and future king of all Israel, the son of Jesse would never allow his character to be stained. The only way to be completely from evil is to act when it shows up. Those who have the love of God will never be against the work, except if the leader walks astray. However, even when that happened, David spared Saul because he respected the anointing that was upon the king.

To watch and pray is the Lord’s advice, in order that you won’t be lost in battles to take possession of what’s yours and to keep what He has given you. When you watch, the devil can’t touch your holiness. Otherwise, you will only face pain and shame. Even if the battle seems hard, stand firm in Him, because God will give you the victory.

In Christ, with love,

Dr. Soares