Daily Devotion: Be Still And Wait

Scripture:
1 Samuel 24: 1-15

Main Verse:
1 Samuel 24: 11
See, my father, look at this piece of your robe in my hand! I cut off the corner of your robe but did not kill you. See that there is nothing in my hand to indicate that I am guilty of wrongdoing or rebellion. I have not wronged you, but you are hunting me down to take my life.

Observation:
Before David became king of Israel, he experienced a lot of terrible things from the person he had honored as father and king, King Saul. So while Saul was out hunting for David, David had the opportunity to kill Saul while he was resting near the cave where David and his men were staying. This could be the right time! He had already been appointed king 17 years ago, and he could have easily taken matters into his own hands. And if he had a vengeful heart, he would never have second thoughts about killing Saul because Saul tried to kill him numerous times. But David had so much respect for his king. For David, Saul is still his king even though Saul attempted to kill him several times in the past.

King David is one of the Bible characters that I admire, and that's because he was truly committed to following God. Even though he had already been appointed king, he waited for God himself to work and put him on the throne. He refused to kill Saul even when the opportunity presented itself. David desired to follow the Lord's will and trusted that at the right time, God will fulfill his promise that he will become King.

Application:
Sometimes, we fail to recognize God's signals. God wants us to be still and wait, but often we are impatient and deal with the situation ourselves instead of waiting for God's perfect time. God knows the desires of our heart. He knows what's good for us and what's not. Perhaps, he wants us to wait for His "go signal" because he wants us to be prepared for whatever it is that we have asked from Him or whatever it is that God will give to us. But while we wait, let us remain hopeful. When our hope is in the Lord, he will renew our strength. We will soar on wings like eagles, we will run and not grow weary; we will walk and not be faint (Isaiah 40:31).

Prayer:
Father, sometimes I forget to lift up everything to you and do things without asking you first. Forgive me, Lord, when I make mistakes like this. But thank you, Lord, for always reminding me. Thank you for teaching me the importance of waiting. Thank you for telling me that you are God, and you know what is necessary and good for me. May I always learn to be still and wait and trust in your timing. In Jesus's name I pray. AMEN.