“But David thought to himself, ‘One of these days I will be destroyed by the hand of Saul. The best thing I can do is escape to the land of the Philistines.’” (1 Samuel 27:1a)
Bone tired? I imagine David was when we find him seeking refuge in Philistine lands. Promised to become king yet still running from his home with a price on his head. Twice he had opportunity to exact revenge and assume the throne (1 Samuel 24:4 & 1 Samuel 26:12) but realized the implications for his future. David must have been feeling burnt out!
We’ve all experienced seasons like this – burnt out & weary. These seasons usually find us following our own plan instead of God’s leading to heavy burdens. Life wearing us down helps us to realize the most restful place is smack dab in the will of God. No guarantees for life on easy street. Often it’s difficult. David waited, even in his weariness. He didn’t take matters into his own hands. Neither did Jesus. Any moment, Jesus could have chosen a path other than the cross. Waiting in His love for us, He sacrificed Himself to the divine plan of His Father. In His human weakness, Jesus cried out for the strength of God. This is our example. Even in our weakest moment, God is there waiting. We simply need to acknowledge our weakness, ask for His strength and then believe in the Faithful One. “Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord.” (Psalm 27:14)
Kelly McGaha