Mar 4 (1 Sam 21; Psa 34, 56)

1st Samuel 21

David runs away from Saul, not in cowardice, but to avoid conflict with the king that God anointed. David knows that he will be king, but only on God's schedule, not his own. This is important for us to remember when we pray for things...we want immediate gratification, but God has His own perfect timing.

The showbread was meant to be offered to God, and here is David and his men eating the consecrated showbread from the altar. This seems contradictory and even blasphemous, but Jesus shows us what is important in Matt 12:

I desire mercy and not sacrifice ~ Hosea 6:6

Jesus uses David's episode here as a way to teach all of us that traditions and sacrifices are not to be viewed as more important than mercy and love.

(v.13) David is in the land of his enemies, and he fakes insanity to strike fear into them...and it works! Some may view David's actions as shrewd and clever, but others may say that he didn't allow God to work in this situation, and acted impulsively. Regardless, we need to be ourselves and let God work...not act like someone else and deceive.

Psalm 34

After David was sent away by the king of Gath, he wrote this psalm to the Lord. David wasn't perfect, but he was a man after God's heart. Even though he faked insanity, he gives credit tot he Lord for saving him!

It is so inspiring to see athletes and people in the spotlight give credit to God. After all, the person may have accomplished some great task or feat, but it was God who gave that person the ability and gift in the first place! We need to work hard at our callings, but always give credit to God for the glory!

Psalm 56

David recalls his fears when in the hand of the king of Gath. He puts his trust in God, and he speaks an important life creed:

(v.11) In God I will put my trust. I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?

David realizes that God can kill our soul, where all man can do is kill our earthly body. We may not live long on this earth, but if we fear and love God, we will live eternally in His presence! That is the better life, by far!