In Times Of Trouble

These were troubled times for David, King of Israel.  There was trouble in the kingdom where David ruled. There was trouble in the home and in the heart of the King.  The rebellion grew until the time came that David had to either fight his beloved son or abandon the palace and flee the country.  It was a terrible time, but David knew where his help came from.  He cried unto the Lord, and the Lord delivered him.  There is much to be learned from this scripture.

1. THERE WAS OPPOSITION*

The devil is cruel and has no respect or regard for any human being.  He is a rebel against the throne of God and is a liar, a cheat, and a destroyer.  This was the opposition that David faced - - the very one who opposes every child of God!  We do not war against flesh and blood (see Eph. 6:12).  It is the evil spirit world that we must deal with.  Here Satan was using a family member most dear to David's heart to fight against David.  Satan loves to divide families.

The Devil does not care who he uses.  His ultimate goal is to destroy your witness, your faith, and your testimony.  Many of us live life as though challenges are not suppose to arise in our lives.  We live as though we have been inoculated from the dilemmas of life and have found ourselves inundated with unforeseen misery.

2. THERE WAS OPPORTUNITY

When opposition comes, it always gives us an opportunity to call on the Lord.  "I cried unto the Lord... and He heard me" (v. 4). God always responds to the sincere cry of His children who are in trouble.  That is when God has opportunity to show us His grace, love, and mercy.  It is also a time when we can display God's grace to others - - even our enemies.  Satan trembles at the sight of God’s children on their knees and at the sound of their cry to God.

a.       For David to Worship

b.      For God to Work

Jeremiah – God does not need much to work miracles in our lives. Ie: the world, two fish and five loaves.  Grandmamma Nem

3. THERE WAS OVERCOMING The enemy was overcome and the opposition defeated because the Lord had come to his rescue.  David said the Lord had smitten all his enemies even upon the cheek bone (see v. 7).  God hit them where it hurt.  God had taken the bite out of the opposition.  Then, David said he could lay down and sleep (see v. 5). He awoke in the morning rested and ready to face the challenges of a new day. Praise God!  With Jesus, our wonderful Lord, we, too, can face the challenges of each day.