Inquire of the Lord

“When the Philistines heard that David had been anointed king over Israel, they went up in full force to search for him, but David heard about it and went down to the stronghold…so David inquired of the Lord.” 2 Samuel 5:17, 19

David actually been anointed king years before by the prophet Samuel when he was much younger. After years of being chased down by King Saul, David is finally anointed by Israel itself. Saul has committed suicide and the people are ready for a godly leader to take his place.

You would think that with Saul out of the picture David could peacefully take his place as king. But, as in modern politics, leaders always have their enemies. This time it is the unremitting enemies of Israel itself; the Philistines. They no sooner do they hear David has been anointed king than they begin a search for him. David is much more dangerous to them now that he has the throne.

The Philistines didn’t need long memories to realize this same David had killed their champion Goliath in a battlefield showdown. They knew his exploits in war, and hoped to take him by surprise. David strengthens his location and then seeks God’s will about the situation.

Those who have followed Jesus for any length of time realize that thorns usually accompany the blossoms of being a disciple. Immediately after Jesus was baptized He was driven directly into the wilderness where He was tested 40 days. Satan is quick to antagonize any advancement in God’s kingdom. Fortunately, he can only antagonize; there is nothing he can do to ultimately thwart God’s plans.

But, some Christians become quite surprised when difficulties come, or they are tempted in some powerful way soon after a significant experience with God. But it makes perfect sense from the devil’s side of things. What better time to tempt than when the believer thinks he is riding high and invincible?

That is why David was so wise to seek immediate refuge. He did not charge after the Philistines thinking, “I am king now, God anointed me, so there should be nothing that can stop us taking those dirty uncircumcised Philistines down, now!” I think David learned his lesson all those years running from Saul. A good refuge will is often a much better choice than a face to face encounter. It at least buys some time to seek the Lord.

That is exactly what David does next. He could have presumptuously figured that the Philistines are Israel’s enemies and God would guarantee victory. But many times it is more complicated than that. There is a time to fight and there is a time to lay low. He needed to hear from God and not rely on his own wisdom, even though he had accumulated much by experience already.

Don’t be surprised that following Jesus brings certain enemies your way. Some lie within our own selves, some to be wrestled with our whole lives. Some are put down easily and for good, others may act as thorns in our flesh, teaching us to always and humbly depend on God’s strength. Others are outside; Satan will not leave the believer alone, especially one who is intent on following Jesus well. Don’t give up when he whispers doubt or discouragement in your ears. When Satan attempts to take you down, take it as a sign that he sees you as a true threat.

We are never to be frightened by the devil, but it is important we are not ignorant of his schemes. Follow David’s example. Take refuge for a time. Find the quiet place well-suited hearing from God. Turn your thoughts to the greatness of God’s love, His immeasurable power and the victory each follower possesses because of Jesus’ full triumph of the cross.

David did not act on his own understanding. He didn’t simply “follow his heart”. By inquiring of the Lord he defeated the Philistines twice in quick succession. Always inquire of God about what to do in every circumstance. God always has a strategy to overcome the enemy’s tactics to discourage your relationship with Christ. Take time, do not rush into action. Ask God, like David did, and act in faithful obedience. God will faithfully get you through, no matter what the enemy may try.