Ask Before You Act

Scripture: 1 Samuel 23:1-13

The scripture above depicts the story of David going to fight on behalf of the people of Keilah, against the oppression of the Philistines. Although David fought against the Philistines and helped to save the inhabitants of Keilah, these same people would have handed him over to Saul (his adversary) if the need arose. Therefore, I claim that it is of great importance that God’s children should always inquire from God before taking any step in life, regardless of how noble, innocent or harmless the step might seem.

Lessons learned:

Always ask God before you make your move(Psalm 37:5):Although it seemed noble for David to jump into helping the inhabitants of Keilah, he still took the time to inquire from God whether or not he should do so when he heard that the Philistines were fighting against Keilah. Even after God had given him the go-ahead, his soldiers were afraid and David took the time to ask God once again (1 Sam. 23:1-5). The time you spend on asking God before you act is not a waste; it would save you from troubles and regrets. Read Proverbs 16:3 & Proverbs 3:5-6.

Never assume that you cannot be betrayed (1 Samuel 23:9-12):Psalm 118:8 says. “It is better to take refuge in the Lord than to trust in man.” Who could ever think that the people of Keilah who David had just defended and delivered from the terror of the Philistines would be willing to hand him over to his adversary (Saul)? As the case is in this story, we learn that one should never assume or take for granted that someone you have helped before could never sell you out. It is lie. Human beings can do anything; therefore, always ask God before making decisions. God is the only refuge that can be trusted.

Always inquire from God about what to do when you are at cross-roads (1 Samuel 23:9-12:Thank God, David inquired of the Lord before assuming Keilah would automatically protect him from Saul.

Never put your trust in human beings: Psalm 146:3 says, ”Put not your trust in princes, in mortal man, who cannot save.” David thought he could take refuge in Keilah, but only he quickly found out that only God remained his refuge.

Do not be dismayed when someone or people betray you when you least expect.God knows how to see you through your ordeals.

God always makes a way of escape(1 Samuel 23:13): Even when your adversary concludes that you have no way out, God will always make a way of escape for you. See 1 Cor. 10:13 and Isaiah 43:16-19

Prayers:

Lord, forgive me of the sin of not consulting God before taking step

Lord, please frustrate the plans of everybody who I have helped and trusted but is now ready to sell me out to my enemy.

Lord, give me the spirit that inquiries from you before taking steps