Apr 18 (Daily reading: Psalms 17, 35, 54, 63) During his conflict with Saul, David wrote about his relationship to God. As much as David wanted things to be good with Saul, his main concern was his spiritual status. “You have put my heart to the test … My steps have held to Your paths. My feet have not slipped” (17:3, 5). Even as he prayed for God’s help against his enemies, “Contend, LORD, with those who contend with me; fight against those who fight against me” (35:1), he recognized his ultimate victory: “So my soul shall rejoice in the LORD; It shall rejoice in His salvation” (35:9).
When the Ziphites betrayed him to Saul (1 Sam. 23:19), David wrote, “Save me, God, by Your name, and vindicate me by Your power” (54:1). He knew that “God is my helper; The Lord is the sustainer of my soul” (54:4). God’s answer was interesting. Saul’s army encircled David and was set to capture him, but Saul was forced to return home because the Philistines were attacking there. “So they called that place the Rock of Escape” (1 Sam. 23:28, NKJV). We also have been provided a rock of escape: “God is faithful, so He will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will provide the way of escape also, so that you will be able to endure it” (1 Cor. 10:13). Thank you, Lord!
Nighttime can be difficult, when doubts and negative thoughts invade our sleep. But David found a good solution: “When I remember You on my bed, I meditate on You in the night watches, for You have been my help, and in the shadow of Your wings I sing for joy. My soul clings to You; Your right hand takes hold of me” (63:6-8). We see again God’s strong right hand, even in the darkness of night!
– Al Gary
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