“Two Steps Back” by Kirk Hunt

But David went and returned from Saul to feed his father's sheep at Bethlehem. (1 Samuel 17:15 KJV)

David's “internship”with King Saul ended as quickly and unusually as it started. Scripture doesn't say why David return to shepherding. All we know is that he stopped serving as a personal aide and private minister to the king.

Saul's need for David doesn't appear to have changed. Perhaps Jesse recalled David to support the family. It's possible that Saul dismissed David for reasons of his own. All we know is that David returned to the sheep.

In the end, the reasons don't matter. David followed the instructions he was given. Even a king may have to acknowledge the weight of a father's request. Good sons and daughters obey.

David took this “reversal” in stride. He drew strength from the knowledge of his anointing. He rested in the peace of God's love.

Perhaps you have stepped back from what you want to do. It makes no sense in your eyes, but you are following God's command. If you are in obedience, you are doing the right thing.

Even kings bow to the weight of our Father's requests. There's a blessing in your obedience. There's a purpose in his commands. Take the steps He directs, no matter where they lead.

Think: I want to be where God puts me.

Pray: “Lord, even if it seems a reversal to me, I want to obey You.”

Copyright © August 2007, Kirk Hunt