Divine Help In Times Of Trouble

DIVINE HELP IN TIMES OF TROUBLE

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: 1 Samuel 21:1-9

"And the priest answered David and said, There is no common bread under mine hand, but there is hallowed bread; if the young men have kept themselves at least from women." – 1 Samuel 21:4 (KJV)

Supporting Texts: Psalm 46:1, Isaiah 41:10, Psalm 121:1-2, Hebrews 4:16, 2 Corinthians 12:9

Key Verse:

INTRODUCTION:

Life is filled with seasons of trials and distress, where we find ourselves seeking refuge and sustenance. In these moments, it is crucial to recognise that God always provides help, often in ways we least expect. David, the anointed future king of Israel, found himself fleeing from Saul, his life in danger despite God's promises over him. He arrived at Nob, weary and hungry, seeking sustenance from Ahimelech, the priest. This encounter teaches us that divine help is always available, even when circumstances seem uncertain.

God’s provision for David at Nob came in two forms—food and a weapon. The consecrated bread, usually reserved for priests, symbolised God’s provision beyond human limitations. It was a reminder that God’s resources are not bound by human traditions when His children are in need. Additionally, the sword of Goliath, which David had previously used in victory, was given back to him, signifying that past victories can be a source of strength for future battles.

This story reflects God’s unchanging nature as our refuge in times of distress. Just as He provided for David, He is still in the business of sustaining and equipping His people. No matter how dire the situation appears, God's provision, strength, and equipping are always sufficient. Let us, therefore, trust in His divine help, knowing that He never forsakes His own.

1. GOD USES PEOPLE TO HELP US IN CRISIS

a) God places helpers along our path (1 Kings 17:9)

God commanded a widow in Zarephath to sustain Elijah during the famine.

b) Divine connections are crucial in troubled times (Genesis 41:14)

Joseph was remembered by the butler and connected to Pharaoh, leading to his elevation.

c) Our help ultimately comes from God (Psalm 121:1-2)

Though God uses men, He remains the ultimate source of provision.

d) God’s provision often comes from unexpected sources (Exodus 16:4)

The Israelites received manna from heaven when they least expected it.

e) Biblical Example: Elijah and the ravens (1 Kings 17:6)

God miraculously fed Elijah through ravens, showing that He always provides.

2. GOD PROVIDES SUPERNATURAL STRENGTH IN DIFFICULT TIMES

a) The Bread of Presence strengthened David (1 Samuel 21:6)

The holy bread served as sustenance in his time of distress.

b) Physical and spiritual nourishment go hand in hand (Matthew 4:4)

Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word from God.

c) God renews the strength of the weary (Isaiah 40:29-31)

Those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength and not faint.

d) His strength is made perfect in weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9)

God’s grace is sufficient for every challenge we face.

e) Biblical Example: Angelic food for Elijah (1 Kings 19:5-8)

An angel fed Elijah, strengthening him for a forty-day journey.

3. GOD EQUIPS US FOR THE BATTLES AHEAD

a) David received Goliath’s sword (1 Samuel 21:9)

The same sword that signified his past victory was restored to him.

b) Past victories prepare us for future battles (1 Samuel 17:37)

David remembered how God helped him overcome the lion and the bear.

c) God never leaves His people unarmed (Ephesians 6:10-17)

The armour of God is provided for spiritual warfare.

d) Divine preparation ensures future success (2 Timothy 2:21)

God shapes us into vessels of honour for His purpose.

e) Biblical Example: Gideon’s divine equipping (Judges 6:14-16)

Despite his fears, Gideon was empowered by God for victory.

CONCLUSION:

David’s experience at Nob is a reminder that God always provides, strengthens, and equips His children in times of distress. Whether it is through human helpers, supernatural sustenance, or past victories, God ensures that His people are never abandoned. Even when we are pursued by enemies, we must remain confident in God's ability to sustain us.

As believers, we should take comfort in the fact that God's help is ever-present. He knows what we need before we ask, and He makes provision even in the most unexpected ways. Let us hold fast to our faith, knowing that just as God sustained David, He will sustain us through every season of life.

PRAYER POINTS:

1. Father, send me divine helpers in my time of need.

2. Lord, strengthen me in moments of weakness and distress.

3. I receive supernatural provision for every season of my life.

4. Lord, equip me for every battle ahead and grant me victory.

5. I declare that I will not be stranded or forsaken in my journey.