Devotion back log

April 15, 2011
You can only steer a moving ship
“The Lord helps those who help themselves.” Contrary to popular belief, this phrase is not Scriptural. But I can see why people would think it was. David was on the run and he helped himself to the show bread (1Sam 21:6). God did not count it against him. When David felt threatened by kin Achish he acted insane to escape. (1Sam 21:12) Later in Psalm 34:6-7, he credits the Lord with his deliverance. David’s preservation was the Lord’s doing, but David was an active participant in it. Waiting on the Lord does not imply inactivity. Rather, it is an active trust. A relationship with the Lord is a synergistic work. He prepares the work and we walk in them. (Eph 2:10)

April 16, 2011
What is at stake in your life?
David believed that his life was linked to God’s glory. When he says, “Be exalted, O God” he means in his life. For David, God’s glory was at stake in his success or failure (Psa 57:5-6). His deliverance results in praise from David and a growing band of people who witnessed God’s goodness to David (Psa 142:7). Do you believe that God’s glory is at stake in your life? Will your life bring him praise or will it wane into obscurity without highlighting God’s goodness and glory?

April 17, 2011
Love them all and let God sort them out
Never return evil for evil. Against his men’s advice and a sense of justice, David did not kill Saul when he had a chance (1Sam 24:4-8). Later Abigail prevented David from killing Nabal in anger (1Sam 25:26-39). The world is full of “personalities” from crazy (Saul) to foolish (Nabal). These people will threaten and offend us. It is in our best interest to wait for God, who sees the heart, to sort it out. We cannot know all the details of every situation, therefore we cannot set ourselves up as judges. Even when our cause seems right, we should wait on the Lord to put down one and exalt another. Jesus said, “Love your enemies.” (Mat 5:44) Paul said “Do not return evil for evil.” (Rom 12:17) Peter said “keep entrusting yourself to Him who judges righteously.” (1Pe 2:23) Never extract your own revenge.