Our study of the life of King David, brought us to the topic of Temptation. In First Samuel chapters 23 and 24, we find both Saul and David facing significant temptations.
Saul hears that David is trapped in a nearby town. Upon hearing this news he exclaims that God must be behind all of this as it is a perfect circumstance for him to kill David. David inquires of the Lord who tells him to flee the area.
A short while later King Saul is relieving himself in a cave. Farther back in the cave David's men see that Saul is vulnerable and claim that God must be behind all of this as it is a perfect circumstance for them to kill the King.
Two unique situations in which both sides claim that God must be behind the perfectly-aligned circumstances. Found within these chapters is a powerful truth for us: Just because it is good, does not mean that it is from God. Wise Christians must learn to look beyond just the external circumstances in determining God's Will for their lives.
So how do we know if God is in front of us or not? Here's some guidelines that we can use in our lives.
Prayer -Are we seeking to listen to what God is saying to us?
Scriptures - Does the Bible shed any light on my situation or circumstances?
Wise Counsel - Have you asked others to assist you in your decision making process?
The challenge for us is to be discerning follower of Christ. Temptation strikes us when we are vulnerable, when we least expect and is always tailored to hit our weaknesses. David rejects the temptation to kill King Saul and in doing so choses greatness over destruction.
2 comments:
Your comment "Temptation strikes us when we are vulnerable, when we least expect and is always tailored to hit our weaknesses." a brother recently said the devil will turn up the heat to challenge our resolve as Christ followers, because he truly believes we will fold rather than stand firm on God's truth.
Satan can never conquer God but He can hurt him by preventing a His kids from reaching our destiny in Christ by putting roadblocks in our way.
Satan is the tempter. He's watched human behavior for thousands of years. He knows that my weaknesses are strong holds that when fulfilled keep me focused on my selfishness rather than God's decree to live a others focused (selfless) life in Him.
So when these temptations come up I need to realize what's at stake & turn back to God's truth & build upon the resolve He has already given us...
My 2cents,
g.
Right on G! Thanks for sharing this....
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