Power to Choose Your Response - Beloved Women - January 24, 2020

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Power to Choose Your Response - Beloved Women - January 24, 2020

READ: “Then a harmful spirit from the Lord came upon Saul, as he sat in his house with his spear in his hand. And David was playing the lyre. 10 And Saul sought to pin David to the wall with the spear, but he eluded Saul, so that he struck the spear into the wall. And David fled and escaped that night.” (1 Samuel 19:9-10 ESV)

TODAY’S ENCOURAGEMENT: Have you experienced unfair treatment at work or in your relationships? Though unfair treatment and harsh words may wound us, we can choose our response.

David served King Saul but one day while playing the harp, Saul threw a spear at him. David fled and ran from Saul for over 10 years. Saul pursued David at every opportunity. Once, while hiding in a cave, David had a chance for revenge. Saul entered the cave not knowing that David and his men were in the back. David only cut a piece of Saul’s robe, though his men urged him to harm Saul.

David then went after Saul and in humility presented himself. He asked why Saul was listening to those who said David was trying to harm Saul. David proved his true intent by sharing how he could have taken Saul's life in the cave but didn’t out of his respect for Saul’s position as king and God’s anointing on Saul.

David encourages us to exercise restraint and think about our heart’s posture when others persecute us. What is your response to unfair treatment? Instead of revenge, pause, ask Jesus for wisdom to confront in humility, and trust Him with the outcome.

PRAY: Lord, it is easy to take offense and seek revenge when others persecute me. Help me follow David’s example to seek Your wisdom and confront in love and humility. Help me trust You as my defender. In Jesus Christ’s Name, I pray. Amen.

REFLECT: In what ways have you experienced unfair treatment? How will your response show your trust in God and help others move closer to him?

CONNECT: Find more encouragement from Tope Keku at www.hiddentreasuresandriches.com.

RELATED RESOURCE: With hectic schedules and full calendars, it may seem like time for God is limited, but the busier we are, the more we need God and the direction, peace, and protection His Word provides. The 2020 Beloved Planner is here to help. Each weekly layout includes a priority, prayer, and gratitude section to help you to make God a priority. Get your beautifully designed Beloved Planner here to help plan your day while keeping God first.

For more Beloved encouragement including Daily Devotionals, practical advice for everyday Christian living, Bible Studies, and more be sure to visit us at www.belovedwomen.org.

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