“When the Philistines heard that David had been anointed king over Israel, all the Philistines went up to search for David. But David heard of it and went down to the stronghold. Now the Philistines had come and spread out in the Valley of Rephaim. And David inquired of the Lord, ‘Shall I go up against the Philistines? Will you give them into my hand?’ And the Lord said to David, ‘Go up, for I will certainly give the Philistines into your hand.’ And David came to Baal-perazim, and David defeated them there. And he said, ‘The Lord has broken through my enemies before me like a breaking flood.’ Therefore the name of that place is called Baal-perazim. And the Philistines left their idols there, and David and his men carried them away.
“And the Philistines came up yet again and spread out in the Valley of Rephaim. And when David inquired of the Lord, he said, ‘You shall not go up; go around to their rear, and come against them opposite the balsam trees. And when you hear the sound of marching in the tops of the balsam trees, then rouse yourself, for then the Lord has gone out before you to strike down the army of the Philistines.’ And David did as the Lord commanded him, and struck down the Philistines from Geba to Gezer.” 2 Samuel 5:17-25
The Philistines were relentless in their pursuit of King David, but so was God in His loving care of His anointed. David never feared. He knew where was his stronghold and who would hold him strong. He conferred with his Lord at every threat, and God was faithful to direct his strategy and steps. Whether he went up or around, he followed God’s instructions, and conquered at the sound of His marching in the tops of the balsams.
Do we so seek the Lord? It is easy in our day to day to get to our plans without taking a thought for how our Lord might lead differently. When we get to tasks and just hope for His blessing, we miss the sweetness of clear confirmation through His word, or the nudge of change in the heart or conviction of His Spirit, or the cautionary Wait, it will work better this way, at this time. And in the hurry of our own determined urgencies, we do not even know that we have missed Him. The noise keeps us from hearing Him in the balsam trees.
In what situations do I need particular guidance today? Am I facing conundrums at work, friction in a relationship, or closed doors when I need one opened? Is there a big decision to make, topic to raise and work through, or habit to conquer? No matter how pressing or strong, would I turn from whatever is coming at me to inquire, listen, and pay heed to the Lord’s voice? Will I trust Him, and thank His for His answers?
Good Father, keep me inquiring of You and alert to Your guidance, ready to follow as You lead and to thank You for Your answers.
As the rain and snow 