Get A Plan

David was now in great danger because all his men were very bitter about losing their sons and daughters, and they began to talk of stoning him.  But David found strength in the Lord his God. [1 Samuel 30.6]

Sometimes things go awry.  What happens after this occurs is indicative of the quality of relationship we have with God.

In David's case, he found strength in the LORD his God.

As much as I would like to think I find my strength in the LORD my God, I believe most of the time I just resort to worry and depression.

Is there any indication in the Bible of what finding 'strength in the LORD' actually looks like?  David first sought spiritual guidance and, once he got confirmed direction to do so, pursued and counter-attacked the very source of his oppression.  

But what does this look like for me?  I don't have an ephod to inquire of!  Jesus is my High Priest and I do have the Holy Spirit... but am I so dull that I cannot hear what is being spoken to me?  

Am I asking Him the wrong questions?  Perhaps this is the key!  Perhaps we underestimate the balance of cooperative effort in doing God's will - God's leadership and my action.  Perhaps what I should do is formulate a plan of action (as if on my own) but not move upon it without confirmation from the LORD to do so!

David got a plan and then asked these two questions: 1) "Should I chase...?" and 2) "Will I catch them?"

God's response was affirmative to both questions.  So, David followed through with his plan, pursued the Amalekite raiders, overcame them and recovered all that was originally taken and more.

So maybe for me to sit around and ask God, "What should I do?" is not the right way!  Maybe I should carefully formulate a plan and then inquire of the LORD whether or not to pursue it.

Father, I have some planning to do!  I will be looking to You to confirm or deny the course of action I being to You...