Day 112, Chronological Bible Study Timeline. Map. Go to today’s Bible reading (use your browser arrow to return): 1Samuel 26; Psalm 31
Trapped—What Should We Do?
When faced with problems and no way out, what is our course of action? Do we give in to despair, get panicky, or consider desperate actions? Will we make deals with anyone, even God, to get us out of it? Where is He when we’re trapped?
The LORD is always present, but He wants us to rely on Him.
God offers us forgiveness, peace, spiritual life, comfort, and help. Where do we go when in trouble? If it’s to God, He’ll help us find the way out. If we depend on anything or anybody else, He’s offended; we prize that before Him. God’s a jealous God. He’ll bring us to the end of our reliance on others, so we lay our souls at His feet.
The LORD hates pride but lifts the spirits of the humble and needy.
David, in the days of King Saul, was still fleeing the hot pursuit of his jealous king. He had relied on his wits before, but now he’s learning to trust the LORD.
More Betrayals
In today’s Bible reading, we notice the Ziphites are once again betraying David’s whereabouts. What’s their motivation? Perhaps they’re trying to curry favor or riches from Saul. Or, the king offered a reward for David's capture.
Saul’s men, knowing jealousy is his weakness, may also have incited the king to pursue David for their gain (1Samuel 26:19).
Meanwhile, David is hiding in and around large rocks and caves in this remote region, being hunted by Saul’s army. Some of us might berate David for hiding from Saul and living by his instincts. We should remember we were born sinners; trust in God is something we learn.
What David the psalmist wrote will help us when we feel trapped.
In you, O LORD, I have taken refuge; let me never be put to shame; deliver me in your righteousness. Turn your ear to me, come quickly to my rescue; be my rock of refuge, a strong fortress to save me. Since you are my rock and my fortress, for the sake of your name lead and guide me. Free me from the trap that is set for me, for you are my refuge. Into your hands I commit my spirit; redeem me, O LORD, the God of truth (Psalm 31:1-5, NIV).
Fear
Many times, it’s not just physical attacks but fear that disables us. It makes us depressed, anxious, and even panicky. To receive His peace, we need to commit our mind and emotions to the LORD, not only threatening situations.
David’s psalm ends with an encouragement: “Love the LORD, all his saints! The LORD preserves the faithful, but the proud he pays back in full. Be strong and take heart, all you who hope in the LORD,” (Psalm 31:23-24, NIV).
Our fears make us weak, but we can find strength in God.
Feeling trapped can make people terrified, yet David trusts God and His Word. We should do the same.
Fear arises in a child who cannot swim. She doesn’t want to be trapped under the water. When she stands on the edge of a swimming pool or other body of water, she sees her daddy (or mommy) in the water, saying, “Jump into my arms; I will catch you.” His child must make a choice, to jump or to cry and walk away.
Our Father in heaven wants us to rely upon Him, to jump into His arms. His arms are safe; His arms are strong. He'll ensure we don't drown in our circumstances.
End Notes: The Ziphites were people from the town of Ziph in the Israelite tribe of Judah
Focus Verses
Psalm 31:3-5 (NIV) “Since you are my rock and my fortress, for the sake of your name lead and guide me. Free me from the trap that is set for me, for you are my refuge. Into your hands I commit my spirit; redeem me, O LORD, the God of truth.”
Discussion
How should we answer the question, “Where is God?” when a person feels trapped by his circumstances?
How do we learn to trust God?
What part does commitment have to do when we feel trapped or panicky?
Write a private prayer response to today’s Bible study:
Please send your comments to me, Rod (the author)
Looking Ahead: David has a choice—should he come out of hiding and fight King Saul or find another place of refuge? What will he do? How do we know when we should Fight or Not Fight? Join us for our Next Lesson.
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