Anointed: A Study in 1 SamuelSample

What does it say?

David stayed with Ahimelech, the priest, under false pretenses while fleeing from Saul. He then pretended to be insane to avoid Philistine wrath.

What does it mean?

David deceived Ahimelech and the Philistines because he was afraid of what would happen if others knew that he was on the run from Saul. After trusting the Lord so diligently, David began making decisions from a position of fear instead of faith. He thought he was protecting himself in both instances. The deeper issue, however, was David’s apparent lack of trust in God to deliver him from the wrath of Saul. David seemed to forget that God would make him king, and Saul’s threats could not prevent that.

How should I respond?

Fear is a natural response to a feeling of danger. But like other parts of our nature, we need to take steps to overcome the negative effects of being afraid. Fear can paralyze us and prevent us from making choices that are led by the Spirit of God. Overcoming fear requires an act of the will. It is a conscious decision to redirect your mind from focusing on possible negative outcomes to trusting in the plan God has for you. Take some time today to examine your motives and emotions. Are you operating out of fear or faith?