SURVIVING HARD TIMES (6)

HOW TO SURVIVE BAD TIMES (6)

The sixth strategy to surviving hard times is DO BELIEVE GOD WILL NEVER LET YOU DOWN. How does one escape when the resources of an entire nation have been mobilized to destroy him, when those around him are eager to betray him? 1 Samuel 23:14 make us to understand that David did not escape Saul’s traps because he was the most clever and resourceful fugitive that ever lived, nor because he had six hundred well-trained men to protect him. David escaped because “God did not deliver him into his hand.” When David had nowhere else to turn, he could always turn to the Lord. Many of David’s psalms relate to this turbulent period of his life. In times of stress, some people keep a daily journal that helps them to keep things in perspective; David wrote songs. At a time most of us would have been overcome with despair, David expressed not only his fears but also his faith in unforgettable poetry.

Saul’s army of thousands was encircling the mountain from both directions; David and his six hundred were squeezed in the middle. It looked as if there was no way David could escape. Then God stepped in. “But a messenger came to Saul, saying, ‘Hurry and come, for the Philistines have made a raid on the land.’ So Saul returned from pursuing David, and went to meet the Philistines” (23:27, 28a). It is impossible to read those words in the light of verse 14 and say, “It just happened.” Or, “Wasn’t David lucky?” Everyone understood God had helped. Later a memorial was set up at the spot. “Therefore they called that place the Rock of Escape” (23:28b).

No matter how dark the night, keep your faith in God. David, who field tested this truth in the wilderness, wrote: “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble” (Psalm 46:1). Underline the word “present.” God is present in time of trouble; He is there with you in your problems. You may not see this right now, but stay close to the Lord. Five years from now . . . or ten years . . . or twenty . . . you may be able to look back and see God’s hand clearly. Hold on to the Lord; He will not let you down!

Word Affirmation: “The Lord bless thee, and keep thee: The Lord make his face shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee: The Lord lift up his countenance upon thee, and give thee peace." - Numbers 6:24-26 (Don't just say it, mean it!)

“No matter how dark the night, keep your faith in God.”

MIND THIS