when life gets ugly

I Samuel 30:6 “…But David found strength in the Lord his God.” (NIV)*

I Samuel 30:8 “And David inquired of the Lord…” (NIV)*

Daffodils (photo by Patty Perkins)

David and his army returned to Ziklag only to discover the Amalekites had burned it and taken all who lived there captive. Young and old. Women and children…including David’s two wives. He and his army of men wept until they had no strength left. Embittered because of the loss of their sons and daughters, David’s men were ready to stone him. Life was ugly.

David turned to the Lord for strength, and he found it. Should he pursue the raiding party and try to rescue their families? He turned to the Lord for guidance, and he got it.

In similar circumstances, would I steep in self-pity and bitterness? Or, would I find strength in God and pursue the raiding party…restoring what’s been taken?

Oh, to have the heart of David and look to God for strength and guidance when life gets ugly.

*The One Year Bible, New International Version, copyright 1986, Tyndale House Publishers, Wheaton, llinois.