The Storm May Be Far From Over, Yet It’s Time For Intentional Praise (Part 1)

Posted on October 16, 2022

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The Storm May Be Far From Over, Yet It’s Time For Intentional Praise (Part 1)

Whether locally or across the world, the lingering effect of the Shemittah continues deep into 2023. Inflation is worldwide, unprecedented levels of flooding across 22 or so of the 36 states of the country affecting heartlands of food production and unprecedented levels of debt as well as currency devaluation have multiplied the woes of the inhabitants of the land. What recourse do they have? Sadly, hope appears to be placed on the outcome of the 2023 elections! How sad!

The situation reminds one of David running from Saul and then came face to face with Abimelech, Achish, king of Gath.

David arose and fled that day from Saul and went to Achish king of Gath. The servants of Achish said to him, Is not this David, the king of the land? Did they not sing one to another of him in their dances: Saul has slain his thousands, and David his ten thousands? David took these words to heart and was much afraid of Achish king of Gath. And he changed his behavior before them, and pretended to be insane in their [Philistine] hands, and scribbled on the gate doors, and drooled on his beard. Then said Achish to his servants, You see the man is mad. Why then have you brought him to me? Have I need of madmen, that you bring this fellow to play the madman in my presence? Shall this fellow come into my house? 1 Samuel  21:10-15 (AMPC)

To put the situation in perspective, remember this Gath is a principality, a significant part of the Philistines, the archenemy of Israel. David was suddenly faced with sudden fear, those who saw him kill Goliath rehearsed the occasion to Abimelech, the desolation of the wicked was suddenly upon him! What prompted or defined his action described in the situation?

The answer is found in the writings of his son Solomon, in one of those Proverbs that I believe were inspired by the instructional testimonies David related to him concerning the challenges he faced when he was persecuted by Saul—My son, let them not escape from your sight, but keep sound and godly Wisdom and discretion, And they will be life to your inner self, and a gracious ornament to your neck (your outer self). Then you will walk in your way securely and in confident trust, and you shall not dash your foot or stumble. When you lie down, you shall not be afraid; yes, you shall lie down, and your sleep shall be sweet. Be not afraid of sudden terror and panic, nor of the stormy blast or the storm and ruin of the wicked when it comes [for you will be guiltless], For the Lord shall be your confidence, firm and strong, and shall keep your foot from being caught [in a trap or some hidden danger]. Proverbs 3: 21-26 AMPC

David’s life was one filled with godly wisdom and discretion; discretion not only dictated his action before Abimelech, the Holy One who has been made unto us wisdom, dictated the response of the enemy, letting David go free!
 
Beloved, if there ever was a time to be filled with the abiding presence of Christ it is in these times of multifaceted challenges that a man has no answer to. James captured it so well in James 1:2-8 (NLT) what each of us needs for these coming days, the wisdom available in Christ and from Christ alone, and this is granted upon our asking. Intentionally seek His wisdom and act with discretion and it will end up in intentional outburst of praise as David penned in our text of the day—I will bless the Lord at all times; His praise shall continually be in my mouth. My life makes its boast in the Lord; let the humble and afflicted hear and be glad. O magnify the Lord with me, and let us exalt His name together. I sought (inquired of) the Lord and required Him [of necessity and on the authority of His Word], and He heard me, and delivered me from all my fears.

Shalom.


Pastor Afolabi Oladele

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