TUESDAY October 8, 2019
A Lowered Position
Then the Philistines gathered together all their armies at Aphek, and the Israelites encamped by a fountain which is in Jezreel. And the lords of the Philistines passed in review by hundreds and by thousands, but David and his men passed in review at the rear with Achish.
1 Samuel 29:1-2
The Philistines readied themselves for battle at Aphek. Israel encamped in Jezreel in the plains of Megiddo. At this point in time, David was still with the Philistines. After fleeing from King Saul, David had become friends with King Achish. David lived in Ziklag and supposedly would fight for the king against Israel; he would come back with the spoils from other places. Now a large force of Philistines readied themselves to fight against Israel––and King Saul.
When David fought battles in Israel, he was a strong, competent leader. He was seen leading the battle against the Philistines. Now hidden among the ranks of the enemy, David was positioned in a lower rank, placed at the rear with King Achish, who had grown to trust David.
David in fear had hidden himself among Israel’s enemies. Although in rank with the Philistines, David remained out of line with God. This was not where God wanted David to be. God never intended for David to be among the enemies of Israel. God had a better plan.
How many times do Christians find themselves in the wrong place at the wrong time? This is when they can be in harm’s way. They should not remain there. Often it is God, in His grace and mercy, who will intercept our lives and redirect our steps.
A man’s heart plans his way,
but the Lord directs his steps.
~Proverbs 16:9~
For more from Raul Ries, please visit Somebodylovesyouradio.org!