1 SAMUEL 27
David won a great victory over Saul, only to be overwhelmed by despair. Such feelings are not unusual; you cannot have mountaintops without valleys. However, when you are feeling low, it is a dangerous thing to “talk to yourself” and make important decisions. David should have talked to the Lord. He and Abiathar could have sought the mind of God together.
David made some foolish decisions because he did not pause to inquire of the Lord. He stopped serving God and started thinking about survival: “For whoever desires to save his life will lose it” (Mark 8:35). He trusted the enemy for protection and did not trust the Lord. As a result, he had to scheme, kill, and lie to survive.
When you are discouraged, ask a trusted Christian friend to pray with you, and seek the Lord’s direction. Take time to talk about your feelings with your friend. You will gain a clearer perspective. Make no impulsive decisions about significant matters. Follow this advice: “Wait on the Lord; be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart” (Ps. 27:14).
“When the outlook is discouraging, try the uplook!”