David strengthened himself in the Lord, his God

1 Samuel 30 verse 6 says that “David was greatly distressed for the people spoke of stoning him, because the soul of all the people was grieved, every man for his sons, and his daughters. But David strengthened himself in the Lord his God.”

We see here that David was GREATLY distressed. The reason; he was in danger of being stoned, and by his friends at that! And why would anyone’s friends even consider something like this? Because their soul was grieved.

Maybe we are not in danger of being stoned physically but we may be experiencing persecution of some sort from family and/or friends. Verbal “stoning” or stonewalling; where people shun us because of a disagreement or difference of opinions. This type of opposition from those close to us is indeed distressing and discouraging.

The scripture says that the reason for the upset was ‘because the soul of all the people was grieved’. It is well known that grief can affect people in different ways, thus causing them to react differently. The people would have been in shock at the terrible news, and not acting rationally.

Though it’s a hard time for the one on the ‘outer’, scriptures tell us “to guard our hearts with all diligence”. Sometimes the arrows of the enemy penetrate before we have time to hold up our ‘shield of faith’ and we feel wounded as David obviously felt in this scripture.

Though we are not told here in 1 Samuel exactly what David did to encourage/strengthen himself in the Lord, the bible gives us great examples of how to do so. 1. Remind ourselves that our Lord and Friend will deliver us out of all our afflictions 2. Lean into the Presence of Holy Spirit and His affection and wisdom for our current situation. 3. Let our minds dwell on things that are good and pure and lovely 4. Fellowship with a friend who will take time to listen to you and encourage you. 5. Recall previous battles you have won and that you are never alone, for our Lord and Friend said, “I will never leave nor forsake you”.

Be strong and courageous and be not dismayed for the Lord is with you wherever you go.

Shalom Kath