Daily Devotional | Guided by God

Did you know that the average man will travel 900 miles while being lost? A study sponsored by a company that makes GPS devices also revealed that men are typically the ones who refuse to stop and ask for directions. Many reasons have been suggested for this behavior. The most basic may be that it is humbling.

While on the run from Saul, David sought direction from God: “Once again David inquired of the Lord, and the Lord answered him” (v. 4). Today’s reading describes two instances when David asked the Lord to guide him. The means David used when deciding whether or not to defend the border town of Keilah is not stated (v. 2). But in the second instance, David sought guidance using the ephod, a tunic that the high priest wore (v. 9). This garment included a pouch for the Urim and Thummim, lots which the priest used to discern the will of God. Their exact nature is unknown, but some think that they were made up of two gems that rendered a yes or no answer. Using that information, directed by God, David eluded Saul. Clearly God was in control: “God did not give David into [Saul’s] hands” (v. 14).

After being directed by God to flee Keilah, David roamed the wilderness pursued by Saul. Jonathan found him there and “helped him find strength in God” (v. 16). Jonathan reminded David of God’s calling. But the people who lived in the desert of Ziph where David was hiding betrayed his location to Saul. This led to a showdown in the wilderness of Maon. Saul suddenly abandoned the assault when he received word that the Philistines were “raiding the land” (v. 27). David relocated to the strongholds of En Gedi.

>> Like David, we receive guidance from God in three major ways. First, God provides clear direction through His Word. Second, He guides us through wise counsel from others. Third, He often confirms His direction through circumstances.

Pray with Us

Praise the Lord! Even when we feel lost, He finds us and gives direction, and He always gives us second chances. Thank Him for His guidance today—whether through His Word, wise counsel, or circumstances.

BY Dr. John Koessler

John Koessler is Professor Emeritus of Applied Theology and Church Ministries at Moody Bible Institute. John authors the “Practical Theology” column for Today in the Word of which he is also a contributing writer and theological editor. An award-winning author, John’s newest title is When God is Silent: Let the Bible Teach You to Pray (Kirkdale). Prior to joining the Moody faculty, he served as a pastor of Valley Chapel in Green Valley, Illinois, for nine years. He and his wife, Jane, now enjoy living in a lakeside town in Michigan.