Predators can smell weakness. They know when their prey is injured and they plan their attack. As Christians we can experience times in our life when we are truly afflicted and deeply injured. It may be a physical, spiritual, or emotional ailment, but either way we are weakened and wounded. During these times, we need to stay alert for predators and be reassured of truths found in our Lord.
The saga involving David and Absalom continued in 2 Samuel 16 and 17. An unexpected outcome of David’s hesitation to deal with Amnon’s sin and Absalom’s vengeance, is that David ended up being attacked by his own flesh and blood. Absalom positioned himself to take over the kingdom and he exhibited true hatred toward David, however David still had love and affection for his son even while fleeing from his wrath. This is made the battle even more challenging.
While feeling from Absolom, David was unexpectedly attacked. Another enemy emerged and found the opportunity to take out vengeance on a weak king. This was a cowardly move, as I believe he would have never approached David with these words when David was at full strength.
2 Samuel 16:5,13 And when king David came to Bahurim, behold, thence came out a man of the family of the house of Saul, whose name was Shimei, the son of Gera: he came forth, and cursed still as he came. And as David and his men went by the way, Shimei went along on the hill’s side over against him, and cursed as he went, and threw stones at him, and cast dust.
David was guiltless of the crimes of which Shimei accused him, but in David’s weakened emotional and physical state, he made application and assumed his guilt.
2 Samuel 16:8 The LORD hath returned upon thee all the blood of the house of Saul, in whose stead thou hast reigned; and the LORD hath delivered the kingdom into the hand of Absalom thy son: and, behold, thou art taken in thy mischief, because thou art a bloody man.
Have you ever had someone declare that the reason you are suffering must be because the Lord is punishing you for something? Just because someone declares this, does not make it true. Some afflictions in our life might be due to the Lord’s hand of correction, but others are due to circumstance, illness, or falling victim to other’s decisions. David knew the Lord would help and guide him through this situation.
2 Samuel 16:12 It may be that the LORD will look on mine affliction, and that the LORD will requite me good for his cursing this day.
Difficulty and trials bring about deep-rooted learning and understanding if we will allow them to have that impact. David recognized this when he wrote the following Psalm.
Psalm 119:71 It is good for me that I have been afflicted; that I might learn thy statute.
Through these passages, the Lord showed me that when I am going through a hard time there are some things that I can do to survive the trial and use it to advance my understanding of myself and my God. First of all, I need to “take heed” and protect myself from unbelief.
Hebrews 3:12-13 Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief, in departing from the living God.But exhort one another daily, while it is called To day; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin.
During tough times, it’s easy to feel abandoned by God. I went through this myself, mistakenly thinking He had left me when I needed Him the most. It’s crucial to remember that God is near and cares for you, even in trials.
Additionally, it is critical to permit others to “exhort” (offer you support and encouragement) you during your challenging times. Do not isolate yourself from those who are not directly involved in your struggle. Instead, welcome their presence and allow them to provide motivation and assistance. Often, when faced with difficulties, we tend to isolate ourselves and pretend that everything is alright, thereby exacerbating the situation and increasing our vulnerability by being alone in our pain. It is important to be open and truthful with those who care about you, to communicate your struggles, and to accept their encouragement and support.
| When you are experiencing “dark times” invite others into your “valley” to help you through |
Recently, a young man from our church approached me requesting prayer assistance. He said, “Danika, would you pray for me? I am experiencing significant anger issues and would greatly appreciate your prayers.” He was navigating a challenging period and sought someone to support him during this time. I was deeply impressed by his proactive approach in seeking help, and I earnestly prayed for him. It is commendable when individuals demonstrate such willingness to seek assistance in times of difficulty.
Proverbs 28:26 He that trusteth in his own heart is a fool: but whoso walketh wisely, he shall be delivered.
He was walking through his valley in the right way. His inclination (his heart) might have wanted to show a brave face and hide the struggle. But instead, he was wise. He protected himself from attack by surrounding himself with people that would help him connect to his loving Lord. In his vulnerable state, he was finding ways to protect himself against unbelief by bolstering his belief in the presence of the Lord.
One day we will all find ourselves in the valley of despair. We will be weak and vulnerable to attack. We must remember to hold onto the things that are sure to give us strength as we endure the season of trial. Hold on to belief and allow others into your “valley” to encourage and pray you through.will not fail you nor forsake you. I will be with you until you have finished the work that I have given you to do.”
Related Bible Passages:
2 Samuel 16-17
Psalm 119: 65-80
Proverbs 28
Hebrews 3-5
Have a face to face conversation with your Lord:
Lord, when I am going through a hard time, do I seek help from others?
Lord, when I am going through a hard time, how can I strengthen my belief?
Lord, when I am going through a hard time, how can I let others know that I need their support?
Lord, I know suffering is a part of life, but I want to show your strength in my life. Help me to rely on you during my times of difficulty to keep me safe from harm. Help me to rely on your people to guide me through the dark times
If you are interested in having a collection of these devotional conversations, consider purchasing the books. They are available from Amazon by clicking here.
Glory, Strength, & Beauty 