The Daily + Weekly by Vince Miller

Are you playing the odds or trusting in the promises of God? Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. We have listened to David's speech after coming out of the cave to address Saul for the last couple of days. Today, we finally listen to how Saul responds in 1 Samuel 24:16-19. As soon as David had finished speaking these words to Saul, Saul said, "Is this your voice, my son David?" And Saul lifted up his voice and wept. He said to David, "You are more righteous than I, for you have repaid me good, whereas I have repaid you evil. And you have declared this day how you have dealt well with me, in that you did not kill me when the Lord put me into your hands. For if a man finds his enemy, will he let him go away safe? So may the Lord reward you with good for what you have done to me this day. — 1 Samuel 24:16-19 A Bipolar King After all that has happened, Saul's reaction is strange—almost bipolar. He shifts from being David's sworn enemy to calling him "son," a reminder that David is his son-in-law, despite his earlier rants where he referred to him only as "the son of Jesse." But here, Saul confesses his wrongdoing and David's righteousness. It's a moment of clarity, brief as it may be, where Saul recognizes David's honor and even asks God to reward him. Who would've predicted this outcome? David has been hunted like an animal by Saul, yet this moment reveals something profound—God's promise to David stands firm. Despite the odds, despite Saul's anger and jealousy, David's future as king remains secure because God declared it. When we face tough times and feel the odds stacked against us, it's easy to think that God's promises won't hold up. But this passage reminds us that no enemy, no circumstance, no obstacle can thwart God's plans for us. Like David, we can trust God to be faithful to His word. So, what promise from God do you need to hang onto today? Pick one below, read it, recall it, and rely on it. 7 Promises To Remember Here are seven promises you can cling to today as a believer in the Lord: 1 | God's Presence in Trials Matthew 28:20 – "And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age." 2 | Strength in Weakness 2 Corinthians 12:9 – "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." 3 | Peace Beyond Understanding Philippians 4:6-7 – "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." 4 | Provision for Needs Philippians 4:19 – "And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus." 5 | Victory Over Temptation 1 Corinthians 10:13 – "No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it." 6 | Rest for the Weary Matthew 11:28 – "Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest." 7 | Love and Eternal Life Romans 8:38-39 – "For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come... will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord." #GodsPromises, #FaithInTrials, #DavidAndSaul Ask This: How can you remind yourself of God's promises during difficult times? What enemy or challenge are you currently facing that requires trust in God's faithfulness Do This: Pick a promise above, read it, recall it, and rely on it. Pray This: Lord, I thank You for Your unwavering promises and faithfulness in my life. Help me to trust in You, especially when I face challenges that seem overwhelming. Amen. Play This: Promises.

Are you trusting in your hand or the hand of the Lord? Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. Today, we continue our story with David, who revealed that he was in the cave with Saul. Bowed to the ground, with the corner of his robe in his hand, he finishes the speech of his life. Let's see how this concludes in 1 Samuel 24:12-15. May the Lord judge between me and you, may the Lord avenge me against you, but my hand shall not be against you. As the proverb of the ancients says, 'Out of the wicked comes wickedness.' But my hand shall not be against you. After whom has the king of Israel come out? After whom do you pursue? After a dead dog! After a flea! May the Lord therefore be judge and give sentence between me and you, and see to it and plead my cause and deliver me from your hand." — 1 Samuel 24:12-15 This part of David's speech is surgical. Here is why. The proverb "Out of the wicked comes wickedness" could easily be interpreted as an indictment of Saul. He was the one who was acting wickedly and possessed by an evil spirit. Yet David, ever so carefully, does not apply this to Saul but to himself, who had done no wickedness in this situation. Yet we all know that Saul is possessed and delusional. Saul is not in his right mind, and when he walks out of the cave, David puts his life in the hands of a known wicked man. But while I state this, this is not entirely true. Again, as he did with Goliath, David understands that he is not putting himself in the hands of Saul but in the hands of God. Twice, he states in this section, "May the Lord judge." David's battle at this moment was a battle of words and not swords, yet all the same, the battle was the Lord's. There are moments in our lives when we have to trust the hand of the Lord. It may look like we are putting ourselves in someone else's hand—a boss, friend, spouse, or legal representative where we, as a believer, there is always another person in the room—The Lord. Stop letting your old life and mind control how you think about life situations. If you have surrendered your life to the Lord, you have another hand on your side—the hand of the Lord. #TrustInGod, #FaithLikeDavid, #SpiritualBattles Ask This: In what situations are you tempted to trust in your strength or others instead of entirely relying on God's hand? How can you remind yourself to see God as the ultimate judge and defender during difficult or unfair circumstances? Do This: Trust in God's Hand, not your own. Pray This: Lord, help me embrace the power of my words in times of conflict, just as David did. Grant me the wisdom to choose truth and mercy over retaliation. May I prioritize relationships and maintain integrity in all my interactions, reflecting Your love and grace. Amen. Play This: Surrounded (Fight My Battles).

Sometimes, battles are fought with words and not swords. Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. In our story, David puts his men in a risky situation by not cutting down Saul in the cave while he has the chance. But he is left to deal with Saul, so he walks out of the cave to confront the situation and deal with Saul and the consequences. What we listen to in our devotional for the next two days is one of the great speeches of David's life. Let's see what he says in 1 Samuel 24:9-11. And David said to Saul, "Why do you listen to the words of men who say, 'Behold, David seeks your harm'? Behold, this day your eyes have seen how the Lord gave you today into my hand in the cave. And some told me to kill you, but I spared you. I said, 'I will not put out my hand against my lord, for he is the Lord's anointed.' See, my father, see the corner of your robe in my hand. For by the fact that I cut off the corner of your robe and did not kill you, you may know and see that there is no wrong or treason in my hands. I have not sinned against you, though you hunt my life to take it. — 1 Samuel 24:9-11 This moment marks a pivotal point in David's life, where battles are not won with swords but with words. David stands before Saul, a man who has relentlessly pursued him, and instead of striking him down, he seeks to convince Saul that he is not his enemy but, in fact, an ally. This act of bravery unfolds in front of his 600 men and the 3,000 soldiers standing ready to capture him. Consider the risk involved! David steps into the open, armed with nothing but his words and the truth about his actions. David's response teaches us that sometimes, our battles are fought with words rather than weapons. How you confront difficult situations can determine the outcome. David skillfully wielded his words. You, too, must also learn to fight this way in your life. Here are a few practices David deployed that you can use as well: Proclaim the Truth: David didn't trust in his feelings or the misguided counsel of his allies. He took a hard stand and proclaimed the truth about his situation. You should express your truth honestly, rooted in the right tone in your conflicts. Pursue Mercy: David had reason to retaliate but not the right to retaliate, so he pursued mercy instead. In your confrontations, you can opt for reconciliation rather than revenge. Remember, mercy can be a powerful tool for peace. Prioritize Relationships: David called Saul "my father," reminding Saul of their connection. In your conflicts, you can prioritize the people and positions involved, helping soften hearts and opening doors for resolution. Practice Integrity: David emphasized that he was not the treasonous man Saul believed him to be. In your battles, maintain integrity in your words and actions. Let your character shine through, serving as a witness to the truth. As you go about your day, remember that you may encounter battles where words hold more power than weapons. Like David, may you confront your challenges with truth, mercy, and a commitment to integrity. Fight well, knowing your words can be mightier than the sword. #DavidAndSaul, #PowerOfWords, #FaithInConflict. Ask This: In what challenging situation have you found it difficult to choose words over actions, and how can David's example inspire you to respond differently? How can you actively prioritize relationships and practice mercy daily, especially when facing conflict? Do This: Fight with words, not swords. Pray This: Lord, help me to embrace the power of my words in times of conflict, just as David did, and grant me the wisdom to choose truth and mercy over retaliation. May I prioritize relationships and maintain integrity in all my interactions, reflecting Your love and grace. Amen. Play This: Words.

Let God write the ending of the story. Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. Yesterday, David put his men in a risky situation by not cutting down Saul in the cave while he had the chance. But what is left to deal with is Saul and the 3000 soldiers waiting for him and his men inside this kill box. Let's see what happens next in 1 Samuel 24:8. Afterward David also arose and went out of the cave, and called after Saul, 'My lord the king!' And when Saul looked behind him, David bowed with his face to the earth and paid homage. — 1 Samuel 24:8 This moment is intense—David steps out into the open, revealing his location to Saul and his army. A situation where any other man might choose a defensive posture or fight for survival, David chooses the high road of faith. He trusts the Lord with the outcome, even when his life hangs in the balance. This bold move didn't make David the hero of the story—God was the hero. David's faith was in God to deliver him, not in his own ability to manipulate the moment. When we think about our own lives, there are times when we're faced with situations that feel like we're stepping into a dangerous "kill box" of sorts—risks that challenge our faith. It might be a career decision, standing up for what's right in your workplace, or even facing a personal conflict. The temptation to save yourself through manipulation or taking matters into your own hands can be strong. But just like David, we're called to put our faith in the Lord, trusting that He will be the one to deliver us—even if the risks seem high. Are you willing to trust God in the face of risk? This doesn't mean intentionally putting yourself in harm's way to test your faith. Instead, it means that when you find yourself in those dangerous places—spiritually, relationally, or physically—you trust in God's sovereignty over the outcome. Remember, your job isn't to be the hero. It's to allow God to be the hero through your faith. Today, dare to trust God with the results, even when the stakes are high. Boldly take the first step of faith and let God write the ending. #TrustInGod, #FaithOverFear, #GodIsTheHero Ask This: In what areas of your life are you tempted to take control instead of trusting God with the outcome? How can you take a bold step of faith this week, trusting God even when the risks seem high? Do This: Let God write your story. Pray This: Lord, help me to trust You when the risks are great and the outcome is uncertain. Give me the courage to take bold steps of faith, knowing that You are in control and will be my deliverer. Amen. Play This: My Story.

Opportunities that look divine are not always divine. Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. Yesterday, David escaped to the Strongholds of Engedi; Saul pursued him with 3000 soldiers and then exposed himself by relieving himself in the cave David was in. So let's see what happens next in 1 Samuel 24:4-7. And the men of David said to him, "Here is the day of which the Lord said to you, 'Behold, I will give your enemy into your hand, and you shall do to him as it shall seem good to you.'" Then David arose and stealthily cut off a corner of Saul's robe. And afterward David's heart struck him, because he had cut off a corner of Saul's robe. He said to his men, "The Lord forbid that I should do this thing to my lord, the Lord's anointed, to put out my hand against him, seeing he is the Lord's anointed." So David persuaded his men with these words and did not permit them to attack Saul. And Saul rose up and left the cave and went on his way. — 1 Samuel 24:4-7 Three critical moments in this story teach one valuable lesson in spiritual leadership. First | Misinterpreted Messages David's men confidently whisper to David that this is his divine opportunity. They apply an earlier declaration that God had made about the Philistines in Keilah (1 Samuel 23:4) to the present situation. But it's wrongly applied. David's men saw a "divine" opportunity to do something less than divine and altered God's message to match the present moment. We have all been guilty of this. It's easy to misinterpret or selfishly interpret promises of God when our emotions are heightened, or we feel cornered. The messages in our minds can be louder than the messages in God's Word. Second | Stealthy Sword With remarkable stealth, David manages to sneak up behind Saul while he's in a vulnerable moment—literally with his pants down—and cuts off a corner of Saul's robe. We cannot gloss over the fact that David's sword was incredibly sharp (we assume Goliath's sword), and his approach stealthy. Yet, instead of using the sword to chop off Saul's head (as he had with Goliath), he cut a corner of his garment. The deep conviction that struck David was powerful enough that it stopped in his tracks. This required incredible emotional restraint and faith in God. In moments when we hold power in our hands, it's critical to remember that great power is demonstrated in restraint and faith when we act according to God's will, not our own. Third | Confronting Counsel After David crawls back, he speaks to his men about his conviction. He realizes that cutting Saul's robe, while small in comparison to cutting off his head, was still dishonoring the Lord's anointed. David tore into his men with a strong rebuke. His allies counseled him to act and David confronted their counsel. Sometimes, our closest allies counsel us toward choices that seem good but violate God's will. In those moments, we need the courage to question and confront ungodly counsel—even when it seems reasonable and justified. Opportunities that look "divine" are not always divine. Opportunities are merely opportunities with two results—a godly result or an ungodly result. In threatening or emotional moments, it's tempting to see a divine moment that is not a divine moment. It is simply a selfish moment deceptively portrayed as divine. This makes me wonder if when David was crawling up behind Saul, he looked down at Goliath's sword and his reflection, thinking to himself: "Should I use the sword God gave me to cut down the enemy of God's anointed to cut down God's anointed?" As you are given opportunities today to lead, be cautious, especially when you are emotional or cornered. You might be given an opportunity to do something divine or less than divine. Then do God's will, not your own, because spiritual leadership is only spiritual leadership when it is spiritually alligned with God's Will. #DivineDiscernment, #SpiritualLeadership, #DavidAndSaul

Have you been exposed to or exploited by a compromise? Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. This week, we are in Chapter 24 of 1 Samuel. I've titled this chapter "Decisions That Make Or Break Leaders." Yesterday, David escaped to the Strongholds of Engedi, and this week, our story in Chapter 24 takes place here. So let's settle in 1 Samuel 24:1-3: When Saul returned from following the Philistines, he was told, "Behold, David is in the wilderness of Engedi." Then Saul took three thousand chosen men out of all Israel and went to seek David and his men in front of the Wildgoats' Rocks. And he came to the sheepfolds by the way, where there was a cave, and Saul went in to relieve himself. Now David and his men were sitting in the innermost parts of the cave. — 1 Samuel 24:1-3 Engedi is a beautiful oasis on the west side of the Dead Sea. You can still visit this location today; it looks like it did in David's time. It is a natural and untouched region. Engedi means "Spring of the Wild Goats" because the location features a beautiful natural, cold, freshwater spring that travels down a cavernous ravine opening toward the east. The source of freshwater attracted mountain goats, and in David's time, this area would have been covered in goats. Thus, Engedi is rightly named "Spring of the Wild Goats." So David and his 600 men retreat to this location to escape Saul. The only problem with the area is that it was a kill box. Once you travel the ravine back to spring, there is no means of escape unless you are a mountain goat. The caverns were impossible to climb as they were rocky and dangerous. So David and his men have to resort to hiding in a cave, probably not one cave, but many since there were 600 men and hundreds of possible caves in this location. This is the first time in our story that David is trapped and finds it impossible to run from Saul. David has been trying to run and avoid conflict with Saul, but now confrontation is inevitable. And wouldn't you know it, Saul has to duece. At least, that is what I would assume. If Saul has to take a leak, he is with 3000 men and takes a leak on the nearest rock, but that is not what he does. Saul enters a cave, lowers his pants, and squats to relieve himself. But out of all the caves in the Engedi, he happens into the one David is in. Coincidence? I think not! David is in a compromising situation, but so is Saul. David is trapped, and Saul has his pants down. Now David has a decision to make, which we will see play out tomorrow. All believers eventually find themselves on either side of a compromise. Either we have been exposed to a compromise, or we have been tempted to exploit a compromise. These moments test our integrity, beliefs, values, and, most importantly, our faith in an uncompromising God. Believers don't make compromises. They live and lead without compromise. These opportunities come in many forms but usually appear as alluring shortcuts that promise instant gratification but steal lasting gratification. So when you feel pressured to compromise, ask yourself: What will my actions reveal about my relationship with God? Then, turn back to an uncompromising decision because any other decision would be a crappy decision. #IntegrityMatters, #LeadershipDecisions, #FaithOverCompromise Ask This: In what areas of your life have you felt pressured to make compromises? How can you resist the temptation to make compromises moving forward? Do This: Don't compromise. Pray This: Father, help me recognize the moments of compromise in my life and give me the strength to stand firm in my integrity. May my decisions reflect my faith in You and lead others to see Your unwavering truth. Amen. Play This: God of All My Days.

Do you believe that God is your refuge in the storm? Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. This week, we are in Chapter 23 of 1 Samuel. I've titled this chapter "Your Way Or The Lord's Way." Yesterday, David barely escaped, and today, he ran to his 13th location after leaving King Saul's home. I wonder where that might be. Let's see in 1 Samuel 23:28-29: So Saul returned from pursuing after David and went against the Philistines. Therefore that place was called the Rock of Escape. And David went up from there and lived in the strongholds of Engedi. — 1 Samuel 23:28-29 The next chapter chronicles the "Strongholds of Engedi," which, in my opinion, is one of the most significant chapters in 1 Samuel. You do not want to miss a single day of devotionals. You need to stay with me for the entire week. Don't miss one. Tune in because the next seven days are incredible. For a moment think about how David felt after running for years to now the 13th location. He had zig-zagged across Israel to various locations to avoid the storm of Saul's unrighteous vengeance. This last week, I evacuated Bradenton, Florida, to head up the coast and stayed in Panama City, waiting out Hurricane Milton. I was only gone for three days, and I cannot tell you how emotionally and physically exhausted I was. When I returned, I was unprepared for how much physical labor needed to be done at my son's home (St. Petersburg) and my home (Bradenton). Just so you know, it looks like Haiti down here. Gas stations are out of fuel. There are down powerlines everywhere. Most fences are gone or scattered all over the street. Massive piles of trash and debris line every street. But you know what? I cannot imagine how David mustered spiritual fortitude and stayed centered in the Lord after 10-15 years of running from the storm of Saul's vengeance. It makes me wonder if I, as a believer, have become too soft, given the comforts and pleasures of my time. I mean, think about it. Three days running from a storm, and I was already feeling the weight of emotional and physical exhaustion. Yet David endured far worse—years of constant running, hiding, and uncertainty. He didn't have a comfortable place to land. There wasn't any relief on the horizon, just more running. And yet, through all that turmoil, he stayed centered in the Lord. The "Rock of Escape" wasn't just a geographical place for David but a spiritual reminder. In the middle of his storm, God provided a way out, a refuge, and renewed strength to keep going. And I think this is a lesson for us. When we face our own storms—short like mine or long like David's—it's easy to grow weary and question whether we can keep going. But the truth is, God is still our Rock of Escape. He meets us in the chaos and gives us the strength to endure, no matter how relentless the storm may feel. So, take a hard look at where you've placed your faith. Are you resting in your comforts, your routines, or your own strength? Or are you relying on the Lord as your refuge, your Rock? David's endurance wasn't because of his natural abilities. It was because he had learned to lean on the Lord through every challenge and storm. Let's learn from his example and put our faith not in our comforts but in the God of all comfort, who is our refuge when the storm rages on. Stay with me this week. We're just getting started. #RockOfEscape, #FaithInTheStorm, #GodIsOurRefuge Ask This: In tough times, how can you rely on God instead of your own strength? Reflect on a past personal storm and how God supported you. What lessons can you apply to current challenges? Do This: Trust God in your storm he is your Rock. Pray This: Lord, help me to find my refuge in You during life's storms, trusting in Your strength to carry me through uncertainty. Remind me that, like David, I can lean on You as my Rock of Escape, no matter how relentless the challenges may be. Amen. Play This: Firm Foundation (He Won't).

That's not a coincidence. It's an act of God. Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. This week, we are in Chapter 23 of 1 Samuel. I've titled this chapter "Your Way Or The Lord's Way." Yesterday, David was betrayed in Ziph by his people. This will now turn into a thrilling chase—a game of cat and mouse between Saul and David. Let's read 1 Samuel 23:19-24: Now David and his men were in the wilderness of Maon, in the Arabah to the south of Jeshimon. And Saul and his men went to seek him. And David was told, so he went down to the rock and lived in the wilderness of Maon. And when Saul heard that, he pursued after David in the wilderness of Maon. Saul went on one side of the mountain, and David and his men on the other side of the mountain. And David was hurrying to get away from Saul. As Saul and his men were closing in on David and his men to capture them, a messenger came to Saul, saying, "Hurry and come, for the Philistines have made a raid against the land." — 1 Samuel 23:24-27 When the Ziphites reported David's location to Saul, he and his men retreated five miles south. It is becoming evident that Saul's intelligence is nowhere near superior to David's. Remember, David had inside sources, like Jonathan, and an ephod on his side. But the Wilderness of Maon was a very strategic move. It was a region of Israel with sharp, cavernous cliffs. As a result, one party could be standing on one side of a cliff with a cavern between them and the other party, making it challenging to reach them. But this did not stop Saul, who was desperate to capture and kill David. Saul made every effort while he had the chance. But right when Saul thinks he has him, another enemy attacks—the Philistines. They take advantage of the opportunity to raid Israel while their two prominent leaders and warriors are occupied 30 miles south. I have always found it interesting how God can use anything and anyone to save his people. Sometimes, God saves by cunning strategy, sometimes by divine intervention, and sometimes by using an enemy. In this instance, God uses an enemy to save a man of God from a man against God. Some might consider David's escape in the Wilderness of Maon a mere coincidence, but it is not. God's providence is evident in this moment. For those with a redeemed mind and a biblical worldview, we see this situation with faith, knowing that God provided salvation once again for David. Stop seeing situations in your life as mere chance or coincidence. Believers believe—that is why we are called believers. We believe in a living, risen, eternal God who guides and saves even in unusual ways. When you stop seeing situations in your life as coincidences, you will see God's deliverance more clearly, and as a result, your faith in God will grow and you will trust him more. At the same time, other people will think you are crazy because you see with a redeemed mind events that are never coincidences but acts of God. #GodsProvidence, #FaithOverCoincidence, #DivineIntervention Ask This: What are some moments in your life that initially felt like coincidences but turned out to be acts of God? How do these experiences strengthen your faith? How do you react to unexpected challenges? Can you choose to see God's hand in these situations instead of viewing them as mere chance? Do This: See God, not coincidences. Pray This: Father, help me to recognize Your hand in every circumstance and see Your providence in my life. Strengthen my faith so that I may trust You more deeply, even in unexpected challenges. Amen. Play This: Million Little Miracles.

Are you feeling a need for vengeance? Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. This week, we are in Chapter 23 of 1 Samuel. I've titled this chapter "Your Way Or The Lord's Way." Yesterday, we saw Jonathan come to encourage David's hand in the Lord. But today, encouragement has turned into discouragement. Let's read 1 Samuel 23:19-24 which reads: Then the Ziphites went up to Saul at Gibeah, saying, "Is not David hiding among us in the strongholds at Horesh, on the hill of Hachilah, which is south of Jeshimon? Now come down, O king, according to all your heart's desire to come down, and our part shall be to surrender him into the king's hand." And Saul said, "May you be blessed by the Lord, for you have had compassion on me. Go, make yet more sure. Know and see the place where his foot is, and who has seen him there, for it is told me that he is very cunning. See therefore and take note of all the lurking places where he hides, and come back to me with sure information. Then I will go with you. And if he is in the land, I will search him out among all the thousands of Judah." And they arose and went to Ziph ahead of Saul. — 1 Samuel 23:19-24 Presently, David is 25 miles south of Saul in Gibeah, hiding in Ziph's strongholds. The people of Ziph are attempting to get into King Saul's good graces by selling David out. But what you may not realize is that the Ziphites are not enemies. They are from the same tribe as David—Judah. His tribe, or his family, have just sold him out. While being encouraged by Jonathan, a different story is playing out in Gibeah. We can read how this affects David in Psalm 54. I am going to read the whole Psalm because it reveals how David felt and responded. O God, save me by your name, and vindicate me by your might. O God, hear my prayer; give ear to the words of my mouth. For strangers have risen against me; ruthless men seek my life; they do not set God before themselves. Selah Behold, God is my helper; the Lord is the upholder of my life. He will return the evil to my enemies; in your faithfulness put an end to them. With a freewill offering I will sacrifice to you; I will give thanks to your name, O Lord, for it is good. For he has delivered me from every trouble, and my eye has looked in triumph on my enemies. — Psalm 54 What we learn about David in this Psalm is how he handles betrayal. Rather than seeking his own deliverance and vengeance, he will let God deliver and seek vengeance. This requires tremendous strength. I've experienced moments in my life when I felt betrayed, and the urge for vengeance welled up inside me. I've wanted to channel my inner John Wick, Michael Corleone, or Frank Castle, longing for justice against those who wronged me. And let's be honest—if you reflect on your own experiences with betrayal, you know you've felt the same way at times. What is remarkable about David is that he felt this way, too. He felt betrayed and thought about vengeance but never acted on it. He dared to deal with his unrighteous motives, unholy emotions, and sinful thoughts, directing his mind, heart, and soul back to trusting in the deliverance of the Lord and not in his own deliverance. If you feel betrayed today, bring your betrayal to Jesus. Jesus knows your betrayal because he, too, was betrayed. Besides, you are not your own deliverer. There is a better Deliverer. His deliverance is better, and his vengeance is just and lasting. God, we bring all injustice against us to you. Deliver us from every trouble and give us triumph over our enemies. Amen #BetrayalToTrust, #GodsDeliverance, #ForgivenessJourney

Do you need to be encouraged by the hand of the Lord? Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. This week, we are in Chapter 23 of 1 Samuel. I've titled this chapter "Your Way Or The Lord's Way." Yesterday, we learned that Saul would hunt David down every day of his life. But in this not-so-delightful news, encouragement is about to come his way in the form of a message from a messenger. Let's listen in to 1 Samuel 23:15-18 which reads: David saw that Saul had come out to seek his life. David was in the wilderness of Ziph at Horesh. And Jonathan, Saul's son, rose and went to David at Horesh, and strengthened his hand in God. And he said to him, "Do not fear, for the hand of Saul my father shall not find you. You shall be king over Israel, and I shall be next to you. Saul my father also knows this." And the two of them made a covenant before the Lord. David remained at Horesh, and Jonathan went home. — 1 Samuel 23:15-18 In this chapter, the word "hand" is mentioned eight times. If you have your Scripture Journal, it would be worth scanning the chapter and circling the occurrences of this word. You will see that this word signals potential power shifts in the story, from the Philistines to Saul, to Keilah, and to David. In this particular instance, Jonathan has come to strengthen David's hand in the Lord. He has come to David in one of the low moments of his life to communicate that everyone knows something that David might forget in the emotional distress of his trial—that God's will is for David to be king, and in the meantime, he needs to hang on to the hand of the Lord. I cannot recount how many times believers have encouraged me at precisely the right moment when I am at an emotional low. Some of you have encouraged me in the Lord with your texts, calls, emails, and gifts of generosity. Without knowing it, there have been times when some of you acted at just the right time to strengthen my hand in the Lord. I also know that there have been times when my messages and devotionals have done the same for you. So, let's keep it going. Encourage someone's hand in the Lord today—as Jonathan did for David. Sometimes, a timely prompting of spiritual encouragement gives someone the courage to see beyond the present circumstances and continue trusting in the promises of the Lord. #StrengthInTheLord, #EncourageOneAnother, #GodsPromises Ask This: Who has been a "Jonathan" in your life, strengthening your hand in the Lord when you struggled? How can you do the same for someone else this week? Do This: Encourage someone in the Lord. Pray This: Lord, thank You for the people who strengthen me in my times of need and remind me of Your promises. Help me to be a source of encouragement to others, lifting their hearts toward You in their moments of struggle. Amen. Play This: Hand Of God.

What lessons have you learned from your long, arduous trial? Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. This week, we are in Chapter 23 of 1 Samuel. I've titled this chapter "Your Way Or The Lord's Way." Yesterday, David went over to Keilah and defeated an invasion of the Philistines, putting him within Saul's reach. Today, we will see how that turns out in 1 Samuel 23:13-14 which reads: Then David and his men, who were about six hundred, arose and departed from Keilah, and they went wherever they could go. When Saul was told that David had escaped from Keilah, he gave up the expedition. And David remained in the strongholds in the wilderness, in the hill country of the wilderness of Ziph. And Saul sought him every day, but God did not give him into his hand. — 1 Samuel 23:13-14 In this text, we notice that David's men continue to grow. He was around 400 men but now has grown to 600. They continue to run and avoid engaging in civil conflict with Saul. David seems to have given instructions not to engage with Saul. This is honorable, given that "Saul sought him every day" for over a decade. This was a long, arduous trial that had no end in sight. Have you ever endured a long, arduous trial like this with no end in sight? If you have, you know it can be both exhausting and exhilarating. As a pastor, I've seen many people walk through these seasons many times. I have also learned that believers enduring long, arduous trials often develop profound resilience and strength. Although the trials are unenjoyable in the present situation, they become trainers and teachers for future situations. At a point, a person emerges transformed, realizing the trial was not merely an obstacle but an opportunity to test and toughen their faith, revealing spiritual muscles that God will use for future feats. So, are you going into, in, or coming out of a long, arduous trial? If so, trust God through the obstacle and see the opportunity. Pay attention to how God is training you. Learn the lessons God is trying to teach. God just might be preparing you for something great. At this moment in our text, God was forging David's character as a man and leader. He was building his trust, patience, and resilience for the battles ahead. If you are a believer today who has been through a long, arduous trial, surely you have learned some timeless lesson. Do me a favor and share the lesson or lessons that your trial has taught you in the comments below. Some believers listening today are going through a trial, and they cannot see the opportunity but only the obstacle, and they need your encouragement today. The lessons you have learned could be the good news they need to lift their eyes to the opportunity God wants them to see. #ResilientFaith, #TrustGod, #LessonsInTrials Ask This: What lessons have you learned during your long trials that have strengthened your faith? How can sharing your experiences help others grow in their faith? Do This: Share the lesson of your trial. Pray This: Father, help me trust in Your guidance during my trials, knowing that You are shaping my character and faith through these challenges. Grant me the strength to encourage others with the lessons I've learned, reflecting Your faithfulness in my life. Amen. Play This: He Will Hold Me Fast.

Do you default to your will, convincing yourself it's God's will, or just to God's will? Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. This week, we are in Chapter 23 of 1 Samuel. I've titled this chapter "Your Way Or The Lord's Way." Yesterday, David went over to Keilah and defeated an invasion of the Philistines, putting him within Saul's reach. Today, we will see how that turns out in 1 Samuel 23:6-12 which reads: When Abiathar the son of Ahimelech had fled to David to Keilah, he had come down with an ephod in his hand. Now it was told Saul that David had come to Keilah. And Saul said, "God has given him into my hand, for he has shut himself in by entering a town that has gates and bars." And Saul summoned all the people to war, to go down to Keilah, to besiege David and his men. David knew that Saul was plotting harm against him. And he said to Abiathar the priest, "Bring the ephod here." Then David said, "O Lord, the God of Israel, your servant has surely heard that Saul seeks to come to Keilah, to destroy the city on my account. Will the men of Keilah surrender me into his hand? Will Saul come down, as your servant has heard? O Lord, the God of Israel, please tell your servant." And the Lord said, "He will come down." Then David said, "Will the men of Keilah surrender me and my men into the hand of Saul?" And the Lord said, "They will surrender you." — 1 Samuel 23:6-12 An ephod was a cloth garment worn by Israel's high priests. It was made from fine and colorful materials; think of it as a long, lightweight, sleeveless vest worn over other clothing to distinguish a priest (see image here). Attached to it was a jem-covered breastplate. The garment was used during worship and to seek God's guidance because within a pocket of the ephod were the Urim and Thummim—objects used to discern God's will. So what are the Urim and Thummim? These objects are a bit of a mystery. We don't know exactly how they were used or what they looked like. We believe they were two small stones (maybe gems), one white and the other black. But in some way, they were used exclusively by a high priest to inquire of God and determine his will. The words Urim and Thummin literally meant "lights" and "perfections," so some believe that when light shone on them, they gave direction. Given this context, we can compare Saul and David in the text. If you remember back a few verses, Saul had just murdered all the priests, minus one who escaped—Abiathar. So the fact that he thinks God has given David into his hand is preposterous. This is how delusional Saul has become. He kills defenseless priests of God and then believes he is still hearing from God. It troubles me to say this but there are believers who can become this delusional. On the other hand, we have David. In the previous text, David consulted God twice before going to Keilah and will now do it again. He does it in the traditional way because God has given him a secret weapon—a surviving priest who slipped away with an ephod that no doubt had the Urim and Thummin. Notice the shift in the story: Saul has eliminated all means of hearing God's voice, and David has been given the means of hearing God's voice. This is a vital power shift in this story. If you want to do God's will, you have to be willing to hear God's will. This means you cannot eliminate all means of hearing from God and then justify the voice in your head as God's will. That's delusional. Instead, the better choice is to surround yourself with as many means of hearing God's will as possible, including God's Word, God's people, and God's Spirit, and engaging in intercessory prayer. #GodsWill, #Discernment, #FaithJourney Ask This: What practices or resources are you currently using to discern God's will in your life, and how can you deepen those practices? Can you identify a recent decision where you felt torn between your own desires and what you believed to be God's direction? How did you navigate that situation? Do This: Seek God's will, not your own. Pray This: Father, please help me to seek Your will above my own and to recognize the guidance You provide through Your Word, Your Spirit, and the community around me. May I be open to hearing Your voice and willing to follow the path You have set before me. Amen. Play This: I Lift My Eyes.

Do you like doing it your way or God's way? Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. This week, we are in Chapter 23 of 1 Samuel. I've titled this chapter "Your Way Or The Lord's Way." This week, you will see two men function as kings. One will do it his way. The other will do it the Lord's way. I will let you figure out which man does it which way. Let's begin with 1 Samuel 23:1-5 which reads: Now they told David, "Behold, the Philistines are fighting against Keilah and are robbing the threshing floors." Therefore David inquired of the Lord, "Shall I go and attack these Philistines?" And the Lord said to David, "Go and attack the Philistines and save Keilah." But David's men said to him, "Behold, we are afraid here in Judah; how much more then if we go to Keilah against the armies of the Philistines?" Then David inquired of the Lord again. And the Lord answered him, "Arise, go down to Keilah, for I will give the Philistines into your hand." And David and his men went to Keilah and fought with the Philistines and brought away their livestock and struck them with a great blow. So David saved the inhabitants of Keilah. — 1 Samuel 23:1-5 David has a lot going on in his life, doesn't he? But he never quits his job or abandons his calling. This is a good reminder. Sometimes, you will experience seasons where a lot is going on in your life. This is not a time to abandon your calling. This might be the time to lean into it more because the enemy is working to distract and divert you from the work God wants you to do. The enemy loves getting you all worked up about peripheral matters, so you won't worry about what actually matters. So, if your life is full, focus on fulfilling your calling. But if David moves to fulfill his calling and save the people of Keilah, he knows that this will put him between two enemies—the Philistines and Saul. Keilah was located on the west edge of Israelite territory, closer to Gibeah, where Saul was. So instead of pursuing his calling our selfish stubbornness, David does what a great spiritual leader would do: he inquires of God. Instead of being stubborn and seeking his will, he submits to the Lord and seeks his will. Great leaders never let their drive, determination, and desires override the will of the Lord. During the running years, David never forgot that the battle and the victory were the Lord's. You have to remember this, too. There is a calling God has on your life. You should live out this calling with drive and determination. But you should never let your will override the will of the Lord. It's the Lord who gave you this calling. The Lord has a way that he wants you to steward your calling. You should heed his direction so he wins and gets the glory through you. Your calling is not led by your will for your glory. God, we give our callings to you today. May we live it out with drive and determination, but never according to our will for our glory. Amen #GodsWay, #FollowYourCalling, #FaithfulLeadership

Leaders bear the responsibility for their decisions. Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. This week, we are in Chapter 22 of 1 Samuel. I've titled this chapter "From Caves Of Distress To Community Connections." Yesterday, Doeg slaughtered the entire priestly line of Ahimelech. But today, we learn one priest escapes. Let's find out who that is in 1 Samuel 22:20-23: But one of the sons of Ahimelech the son of Ahitub, named Abiathar, escaped and fled after David. And Abiathar told David that Saul had killed the priests of the Lord. And David said to Abiathar, "I knew on that day, when Doeg the Edomite was there, that he would surely tell Saul. I have occasioned the death of all the persons of your father's house. Stay with me; do not be afraid, for he who seeks my life seeks your life. With me you shall be in safekeeping." — 1 Samuel 22:20-23 Abiathar is the sole heir of Eli's house, who remains according to the prophecy in Chapter 2. If you can remember, about 20 weeks ago, when we began this series, there was a man of God who prophecied against Eli because of his wicked sons, and he said: Only one of you whom I shall not cut off from my altar shall be spared to weep his eyes out to grieve his heart, and all the descendants of your house shall die by the sword of men. — 1 Samuel 2:33 That prophecy has come true for Abiathar, the final heir of Eli. But notice two details. First, Abiathar does not cast any blame on David for what has happened to his father or his entire family. He comes in peace, seeking refuge. David provides refuge for him for all the days of his life and will be a high priest in his empire. Second, even though Abiathar doesn't blame David, David takes full responsibility for the events that led to his family's death. This is quite the comparison to Saul, who takes no responsibility at all. Great leaders take responsibility for their actions and inaction and the impact they have on others, no matter how big or small. This is a fundamental principle of leadership. Today, I want to encourage you to take a moment to reflect on your leadership roles. Carefully consider any areas where you may need to start taking responsibility for your actions or inaction. Bear the weight of your leadership responsibility. Then, share your conviction with the people you lead and make the commitment to step up as a leader and provide the leadership they need. #LeadershipResponsibility, #AccountabilityInFaith, #FaithfulLeadership Ask This: In what areas of your leadership—whether at work, community, or home—do you need to take more responsibility for your actions and their impact on others? How can you create an environment of openness and accountability within your team or community, encouraging others to also take ownership of their roles? Do This: Take responsibility in one area of leadership this week. Pray This: Father, help me to embrace my leadership responsibilities with humility and courage, acknowledging the impact of my actions on those I lead. Grant me the wisdom to create a culture of accountability where we can support one another in our journeys of growth and service. Amen. Play This: I Have Decided.

Ungodly influences will affect your legacy. Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. This week, we are in Chapter 22 of 1 Samuel. I've titled this chapter "From Caves Of Distress To Community Connections." Yesterday, we ended our reading just as Saul ordered his soldiers to slay Ahimelech and his entire priestly line. They refused for obvious reasons. Here's what happens in 1 Samuel 22:18-19: Then the king said to Doeg, "You turn and strike the priests." And Doeg the Edomite turned and struck down the priests, and he killed on that day eighty-five persons who wore the linen ephod. And Nob, the city of the priests, he put to the sword; both man and woman, child and infant, ox, donkey and sheep, he put to the sword. — 1 Samuel 22:18-19 This event is genuinely saddening on so many levels. I hope you notice that Doeg didn't merely follow the king's orders; he took the opportunity to go above and beyond, leaving a bloody trail of devastation. He is a shepherd who slays every breathing creature in Nob. What's striking is that there's no indication Saul tried to stop this slaughter of surplus. On that day, Doeg revealed who he indeed was—an Edomite enemy, betraying the Israelites and destroying their priests at the will of a possessed Israelite King. The actions taken against Ahimelech echo the kind of judgment God decreed upon enemy nations. This moment is eerily reminiscent of what God commanded Saul to do to the Amalekites in 1 Samuel 15:3. Except this time, Saul finally follows through. Through his ruthless henchman, he finally enacts the kind of judgment he was commanded to impose on his people instead of the Amalekites. By the voice of Doeg, Saul is tipped over the edge and has now become a failure of monumental proportions. Saul's decline is shocking. The once reluctant leader has devolved into a ruthless tyrant, completely consumed by corruption. Like Pharoah in the time of Moses and Herod in the time of Jesus, Saul's decline turns him against his people and God. All men and leaders are susceptible to the same decline. I am, and so are you. As a believer, take time to identify one ungodly influence that has infiltrated the ranks of your life. Then, eliminate this influence. There is no reason to let one ungodly influence have decision rights in those emotional times of your life. These people don't care about you. They also don't care about the consequences of their flawed advice. They may even take advantage of you as Doeg did of Saul. #LeadershipLessons, #GuardYourHeart, #UngodlyInfluence Ask This: What ungodly influences have you encountered in your life, and how can you actively remove or address them to maintain your spiritual integrity? In what ways can we ensure that our leadership, whether in our families, workplaces, or communities, remains aligned with God's principles rather than succumbing to corrupt influences? Do This: Eliminate one ungodly influence. Pray This: Father, help me to surrender my fears to You and trust in Your perfect plan, knowing that You are always in control. May I seek to build a strong community of faith around me, supporting one another as we navigate life's challenges together. Amen. Play This: Honest.

Are you paranoid about the present conspiracy? Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. This week, we are in Chapter 22 of 1 Samuel. I've titled this chapter "From Caves Of Distress To Community Connections." Yesterday, we discovered Doeg, the foreigner, sold out Ahimelech, the Priest, and that he saw him in Nob supply David with supplies and a sword. So Saul, who is now furious, commands Ahimelech and his family of priests to come to Gibeah, only a couple of miles to the west. Let's read what happens in 1 Samuel 22:11-17: Then the king sent to summon Ahimelech the priest, the son of Ahitub, and all his father's house, the priests who were at Nob, and all of them came to the king. And Saul said, "Hear now, son of Ahitub." And he answered, "Here I am, my lord." And Saul said to him, "Why have you conspired against me, you and the son of Jesse, in that you have given him bread and a sword and have inquired of God for him, so that he has risen against me, to lie in wait, as at this day?" Then Ahimelech answered the king, "And who among all your servants is so faithful as David, who is the king's son-in-law, and captain over your bodyguard, and honored in your house? Is today the first time that I have inquired of God for him? No! Let not the king impute anything to his servant or to all the house of my father, for your servant has known nothing of all this, much or little." And the king said, "You shall surely die, Ahimelech, you and all your father's house." And the king said to the guard who stood about him, "Turn and kill the priests of the Lord, because their hand also is with David, and they knew that he fled and did not disclose it to me." But the servants of the king would not put out their hand to strike the priests of the Lord.— 1 Samuel 22:11-17 This section is deeply disturbing. Saul is now so paranoid that he sees even his closest and most godly allies as foes rather than friends. Ahimelech presents to him a four-pronged and logical defense: He understood David as a loyal servant, son-in-law, and captain of his servants. He performed his royal duties as required. He affirmed his loyalty to Saul. He declared his non-involvement in a plot against the King. But none of this is convincing to Saul. David's actions, combined with Jonathan's, Michal's, Samuel's, and now Ahimelech's, confirmed by Doeg, are too much for the paranoia stirring around in Saul's mind. The circle of the conspiracy continues to grow, and Saul cannot see it any other way. Therefore, Saul pronounces a verdict as the high prosecutor in his court, and then his men refuse to act. I am sure the inaction of his men only confirmed his fears of a growing conspiracy. God is always up to something, and it's always righteous. But his righteousness will expose unrighteousness. Sometimes, we may interpret this as a conspiracy against us, especially when we are the ones opposing God by acting unrighteous. Saul's verdict exposes his desire to play God in this situation. Note that his words are the same as God's judgment for human sin in Genesis 2:17, "You shall surely die." But Saul is not God therefore his paranoia leads to an unjust verdict and the sentencing of a line of innocent and defenseless priests. Saul is paranoid and feels like he is losing control, but the text presents no sign that he has lost any control in the kingdom. Even David perceives himself to be Saul's subject and merely wants to keep himself and his family safe. He has no desire to take the kingdom from Saul's hand. Saul still has absolute control but is now completely controlled by his fears. Fear is an essential God-given emotion designed to signal you when you perceive a threat, danger, or something unknown. Fear is designed to alert you and prepare you to respond to a challenge. But when you allow fear to control you, you are prone to making irrational decisions founded in senseless conspiracies of your will rather than the sound certainty of God's will. There are so many things to be fearful of today: the economy, war, immigrants, storms, illicit drugs, party division, and the next election. At the same time, you also have personal fears that demand your immediate attention. But you cannot let any of these fears control you. Saul is an example of a man who is in complete control of a kingdom but acts like he is out of control because his fears are completely controlling him. Don't live life this way. It will drive you mad. Instead, let your fears drive your faith in God, who is the only one to be feared. #FaithOverFear, #CommunityInChrist, #1SamuelReflections Ask This: How has fear affected your decisions and relationships, and how can you shift to trust in God's sovereignty? How can you build support among your friends and family during fearful times? Do This: Stop constructing conspiracies in your mind, confide in the Creator, and fear him. Pray This: Father, help me to surrender my fears to You and trust in Your perfect plan, knowing that You are always in co

Are you friends with too many deceptive opportunists? Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. This week, we are in Chapter 22 of 1 Samuel. I've titled this chapter "From Caves Of Distress To Community Connections." Yesterday, we discovered King Saul pouting in Gibeah. If you remember, Saul threw a tantrum, leaving his servants, who were mostly his family, in shock. Then, we assume this outburst was met with silence until one man breaks the silence. I wonder who that man might be? Let's read 1 Samuel 22:9-10: Then answered Doeg the Edomite, who stood by the servants of Saul, "I saw the son of Jesse coming to Nob, to Ahimelech the son of Ahitub, and he inquired of the Lord for him and gave him provisions and gave him the sword of Goliath the Philistine."— 1 Samuel 22:6-8 The man is Doeg. He was herding in Nob days before when he saw David, and he just happened to be here at Saul's outburst. Therefore, since he is an enemy slave, he will leverage an opportunity. He takes advantage of the silence and sells David and the priests out, leveraging his knowledge against Saul's people. You will see tomorrow that Doeg's opportunism will strike a deadly blow to Israel and its spiritual community. And it's not good. We live in very suspicious times. We are less trusting of legacy media, political messaging, social media, news propaganda, educational institutions, drug providers, and corporate policies than ever. While I don't think we need to embrace every conspiracy theory, I think it is good to be skeptical and to trust institutions and people less without abandoning them. Doeg is merely a sleeper opportunist. He is a foreigner who has infiltrated Israel because Saul has allowed it. Doeg is a skilled herdsman and will use his skill to herd the people of Israel against one another. He intentionally retained information and saw an opportunity to sell David out for his own benefit, turning the priests against Saul and his servants. Watch out for oppositional opportunists like Doeg in your life. These are people who do not care about you and will take advantage of your willingness to trust them, using that to their advantage at the cost of something in your life. They will sneak in, spy you out, and then sell you out and it is never an enjoyable experience. This occurrence here is going to turn deadly, ripping apart the house of God, as we will see tomorrow. Here is my advice: Go to a Bible-preaching church. Join a small group or form a close relationship with other believers. Marry a believer. Do business with people who are believers. Build lasting, trusting relationships with believing men and women. Stop spending time with so many Doegs, those who do not share your values, beliefs, and faith in God. Over time, they slip in and tear friendships apart, churches apart, marriages apart, and businesses apart. #CommunityMatters, #BewareOfOpportunists, #FaithfulConnections Ask This: Who are the "Doegs" in your life, and how can you better identify and protect yourself from their influence in your relationships? In what ways can you actively seek out and cultivate trusting relationships with other believers to strengthen your spiritual community? Do This: Decrease your Doegs. Increase disciples. Pray This: Father, please help me discern the intentions of those around me and build trusting relationships with fellow believers who will encourage my faith. Strengthen my community connections so that I can grow in my walk with You and support others in their journey as well. Amen. Play This: Relationship.

Do you feel insecure about the present political climate? Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. This week, we are in Chapter 22 of 1 Samuel. I've titled this chapter "From Caves Of Distress To Community Connections." Yesterday, David took his family to the stronghold in Moab and then left with his 400 men to the forest of Hereth. Today, the text is going to turn back to King Saul in Gibeah in 1 Samuel 22:6-8: Now Saul heard that David was discovered, and the men who were with him. Saul was sitting at Gibeah under the tamarisk tree on the height with his spear in his hand, and all his servants were standing about him. And Saul said to his servants who stood about him, "Hear now, people of Benjamin; will the son of Jesse give every one of you fields and vineyards, will he make you all commanders of thousands and commanders of hundreds, that all of you have conspired against me? No one discloses to me when my son makes a covenant with the son of Jesse. None of you is sorry for me or discloses to me that my son has stirred up my servant against me, to lie in wait, as at this day." — 1 Samuel 22:6-8 The last time we read about Saul, he had his spear in hand and hurled it at his son, Jonathan. Again, he has his spear in hand, probably because he is very concerned for his life. This is a possessed and paranoid king who is strapped with a weapon wherever he goes, and people continue to submit to his oppressive disposition. One of the reasons they submit is submitted in the text. Saul is paying for their allegiance by endearing the people of his tribe (the Tribe of Benjamin) with three things: fields, vineyards, and positions in the kingdom. It's important to pause here and notice the contrast of appearances between Saul and David. Saul sits in the comfort of his home atop a hill in his kingdom, peacefully in the shade of a tamarisk tree. David retreats to a cave and foreign lands outside his homeland, distressed and running for his life. However, the picture of Saul's security is only an illusion because deep insecurities are stirring within his heart. Saul realizes that the quid-pro-quo approach with his tribe (the Tribe of Benjamin) is no longer as effective as it once was because his oppression has become too much. David's tribe (the Tribe of Judah) just rallied around him in distress at the Cave of Adullam with no promises of quid-pro-quo. Thus we see Saul is creating a political divide within Israel, and the people feel it. But Saul's outburst gives him away. It makes him sound like a pouting child who is not getting his way and is throwing a tantrum. Essentially, he exclaims, "I give you everything, but no one tells me anything!" Saul's facade of security has been publicly exposed. Deep insecurities are driving him further into madness. He is not concerned about the things of God, God's people, or even his own tribe. His only concern is himself. Following his outburst, his people are silent. They are in shock at what he has declared, and no one dares to respond. And so Samuel's explicit declaration in 1 Samuel 8 about their desire to appoint a king like other nations is fulfilled a couple of decades later. Let's turn back and read what Samuel prophecied: "These will be the ways of the king who will reign over you … he will appoint for himself commanders of thousands and commanders of fifties.… He will take the best of your fields and vineyards and olive orchards and give them to his servants." — 1 Samuel 8:11, 12, 14. Political leaders do not care about you. They frequently begin with pure motives and good intentions, but if they stay in politics for long enough, their motives and intentions turn to securing favor for themselves and their families and finally winning just enough public favor for their next election. You might initially not like what I am saying and disagree with me on this, but don't ignore Saul's progression and Samuel's prophecy they are a standing pattern that has stood the test of time. Besides, in the end, this empire will not last very long. There are only three kings in Israel's monarchy: Saul, David, and Solomon. It lasts only long enough for the Temple to be built. (I wonder if God was trying to tell us something?) If you feel insecure about our present political climate remember: political leaders do not care about you, but there is one who does. His name is Jesus. He is the only King. Submit to him, and find your security in him; he will never let you down. God, today we put our trust in God, who is King, not the next king. Amen. #InsecureKings, #FaithInPolitics, #CommunityInChrist Ask This: How do Saul's insecurities mirror those of our leaders? How can we seek God's guidance to lead with authenticity and trust rather than fear? In challenging times, how can we build genuine community and support instead of superficial relationships that are based on others' insecurities? What practical steps can we take to foster genuine connection? Do This: Find security in God. Pray Thi

Are you living a legacy that leaves a wake? Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. This week, we are in Chapter 22 of 1 Samuel. I've titled this chapter "From Caves Of Distress To Community Connections." Yesterday, David was in the Cave of Adullam, and God provided him with relationships and resources; today, he will head to the other side of the river into new territory. Let's see where he goes in 1 Samuel 22:3-5: And David went from there to Mizpeh of Moab. And he said to the king of Moab, "Please let my father and my mother stay with you, till I know what God will do for me." And he left them with the king of Moab, and they stayed with him all the time that David was in the stronghold. Then the prophet Gad said to David, "Do not remain in the stronghold; depart, and go into the land of Judah." So David departed and went into the forest of Hereth. — 1 Samuel 22:3-5 From the Cave of Adullam, David heads east (see map). He would have had to cross the hills and the Jordan River to reach Moab, east of Israel. What makes this interesting is that Moabites were one of Saul's enemies, whom he had successfully opposed in Chapter 14. This begs the question, "Why did he take his family here? Haven't we just tried running to an enemy, and it did not work out so well?" There is an intriguing answer. David understood that he had to get his family to safety. They ran a significant risk in coming to him, so he had to take them somewhere relatively safe. Even though the Moabites were enemies to Saul, David has distant family roots in Moab. David's great-grandmother and Jesse's grandmother was a famous Moabite—Ruth (Ruth 4:13, 18–22). Ruth's faithfulness paid off during her day and continued to pay off more than a century later. In Ruth's lineage, David found safety for his family until Saul was gone. Sin always leaves a wake of ongoing consequences. But so does our faithfulness. Don't underestimate the wake of your faithfulness to future generations. Your decision for Christ and the ongoing decisions you make for Christ can positively impact your children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. So work out your salvation, be faithful, and live a legacy that leaves a wake felt by future generations. #FaithfulLegacy, #DavidAndRuth, #JourneyToSafety Ask This: How can you identify and strengthen the community connections in your life, especially during times of distress or uncertainty? How might these relationships impact your faith journey and the faith of future generations? Reflect on a time when you had to make a difficult decision to protect your loved ones. How did your faith guide you in that situation, and what lessons can you draw from David's example of seeking safety for his family? Do This: Live a legacy that leaves a wake. Pray This: Father, help me trust in Your provision as I navigate life's challenges, just as David did in his time of distress. May I cultivate strong connections within my community and leave a lasting legacy of faithfulness for future generations. Amen. Play This: The Blessing.

Are you hiding in a cave, feeling hunted, hated, and alone? Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. This week, we are in Chapter 22 of 1 Samuel. I've titled this chapter "From Caves Of Distress To Community Connections." Don't miss the new drop of The Vince Miller Show at the link below. Yesterday, David was acting like an insane man in Gath, which was a short-lived retreat. Today, David will run to a new location, so let's see where he goes in 1 Samuel 22:1-2: David departed from there and escaped to the cave of Adullam. And when his brothers and all his father's house heard it, they went down there to him. And everyone who was in distress, and everyone who was in debt, and everyone who was bitter in soul, gathered to him. And he became commander over them. And there were with him about four hundred men. — 1 Samuel 22:1-2 Adullam was about ten miles southeast of Gath, back into the hills, yet still twenty-plus miles south of Gibeah, Ramah, and Nob, where he had previously been. This puts him back in Israelite territory, but enemies would struggle to get to him because he is in the foothills (see map). In the Cave of Adullam, David is met with two great foes: distress and bitterness. These two words are potent and dripping with emotion in this text. If you want to know how David experienced these emotions, read Psalm 57 and Psalm 142, which recount David's cry to the Lord during this time. At some point, every believer will feel like David felt in the Cave of Adullam. We might not be hunted by an enemy King with an army like David was, but we will feel the same distress and bitterness. We will feel like we are sitting in a lonely, dark, cold cave alone. And in this distress, we should call upon the Lord. Cry out in emotion to God as David did. Read the two Psalms and cry out the same emotions, knowing you are not the only believer who has ever felt this way. But here comes the good news. God heard David's cry and sent a massive community to the rescue. In the Cave, God supplies relationships for David. He is reunited with his family. The family that seemed almost to desert him in the early chapters of 1 Samuel comes to him. These are the same brothers who used to tease him and the father who gave him over to the service of a now-possessed king. These relationships had to be an overwhelming comfort to David. Regardless of past hurts and hangups, they all came and attended to the soul of their son and brother. In the Cave, God supplies resources for David. God supplies him with 400 men—400 like-minded men who felt his distress, knew the injustice, and were willing to risk aligning with him and going forward with him. I assume this included even the older brothers, who used to tease him. Don't underestimate what God will do with you in your cave. I know David was literally being hunted and found refuge in an actual cave, but your cave is no different. It is filled with the same distress and bitterness. Your soul knows the same loneliness David felt. If you are in the cave with David, call on the Lord, who rescues and provides relationships and resources to those who call upon him. Never underestimate what God might do with you in the cave. God might be mounting an army of relationships and resources to rescue you. God, I pray you will be with those distressed and bitter today. In the cave, come to them and provide them with the relationships and resources that only you can provide that they each need. Amen. #CaveToCommunity, #GodsProvision, #FaithInDistress Ask This: In times of distress and isolation, how can you actively seek out and cultivate relationships that provide support and encouragement in your spiritual journey? Reflect on a time when you felt like you were in a "cave" of bitterness or loneliness. How did you experience God's presence during that time, and what lessons did you learn about relying on Him and the community around you? Do This: Run to the God of all resources. Pray This: Lord, in my distress and bitter moments, help me remember that I am never truly alone, for You are always with me. Grant me the courage to reach out for support and embrace the community You provide. Amen. Play This: Never Alone.

Are you wearing a temporary mask or a permanent one? Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. This week, we are in Chapter 21 of 1 Samuel. I've titled this chapter "Man On The Run." Yesterday, David ran to Gath, the former home of Goliath, with Goliath's sword. The King of Gath realizes he is there, so let's see what David decides to do next. Let's read 1 Samuel 21:12-15: And David took these words to heart and was much afraid of Achish the king of Gath. So he changed his behavior before them and pretended to be insane in their hands and made marks on the doors of the gate and let his spittle run down his beard. Then Achish said to his servants, "Behold, you see the man is mad. Why then have you brought him to me? Do I lack madmen, that you have brought this fellow to behave as a madman in my presence? Shall this fellow come into my house?" — 1 Samuel 21:10-12 So we discover that David is not just a shepherd, poet, musician, lover, and warrior but also an actor. Is there anything this strapping young man cannot do? And it is believable! He drools on himself and writes a little graffiti on the city's walls, and the King falls for it. David is labeled a madman. I assume that since he had seen King Saul act like a madman and got away with it, maybe he assumed he could get away with it, too. I don't know for sure, but it worked! But what captured my attention today is the stark contrast between Saul's tactics in Gibeah and David's in Gath. Saul surrounds himself with sanity to hide his insanity. David uses insanity to hide his sanity. For some reason, Achish's pronouncement of his insanity provides him with temporary safety until he can escape to the coming location. Occasionally, wearing a temporary mask is necessary in life-threatening situations. Enemies surrounded David; therefore, temporary pretending was needed to preserve his life. The problem is that many use this tactic as a perpetual means to maintain a persona that is not remotely true. Therefore, their playacting becomes a perpetual lie they tell about themselves. But this is not true of David. David's act was only temporary. While publicly pretending, he privately anchored his mind and soul to the truth about God in God's Word (as revealed this week in Psalm 34 and Psalm 56). This was not a permanent act by David, only temporary until he found a means of escape. If you must wear a mask as a temporary shield against an enemy, do so sparingly. Don't fake it until you make it, and then continue with the act only to become a fake. And since this is usually not needed, stop pretending, be authentic, take off the mask, and trust in God. #DavidOnTheRun, #AuthenticityInFaith, #TrustingGod Ask This: In what areas of your life do you feel pressured to wear a mask or pretend to be someone you're not? How can you seek God's truth to find your authentic self? David used a temporary act to escape danger, but he anchored his heart to God's truth. How can you balance the need for self-protection in difficult situations with a commitment to living authentically in your faith? Do This: Stop pretending and take off the mask. Pray This: Father, help me discern when it's necessary to wear a temporary mask for my protection while staying rooted in Your truth. Grant me the courage to remove false facades and embrace my authentic self as I navigate life's challenges. Amen. Play This: Let My Life Be Worship.

Are you trying to outrun your fears? Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. This week, we are in Chapter 21 of 1 Samuel. I've titled this chapter "Man On The Run." Yesterday, David ran to Nob to Ahimelech, the priest. Today, he is going to run somewhere new. Let's read 1 Samuel 21:10-12: And David rose and fled that day from Saul and went to Achish the king of Gath. And the servants of Achish said to him, "Is not this David the king of the land? Did they not sing to one another of him in dances, 'Saul has struck down his thousands, and David his ten thousands'?" And David took these words to heart and was much afraid of Achish the king of Gath. — 1 Samuel 21:10-12 If we go back to Chapter 5 in our study, we will remember that there were five main Philistine cities, and Gath was one of them. A Lord led each, and Achish led Gath. So David runs 23 miles southwest into Philistine territory, probably thinking that "the enemy of my enemy is my friend." But don't forget Gath was the hometown of a great Philistine warrior named Goliath, and David had just acquired his sword. Even worse, once he gets there, his folk hero status precedes him as some of the servants of Achish quickly notice him and reference the folk song the Israelites sang about him. But David is aware of what is going on. He knows that running to Achish might provide temporary cover from Saul, but it might also put him in harm's way with Achish and the Philistines. Still, he runs the risk, and now his fears only increase, and he learns that a man can never outrun his fears. There have been a few times in my life as a man of God where adverse events keep happening to me that lead to waves of fear. When it is just one or two events, I am usually okay. But after a few similar events, questions began stirring in my mind. Eventually, I will fixate on one of two theories: either I have done something unrighteous to provoke these events, or my righteousness has provoked injustice that is hunting me down. Either way, this is a very lonely feeling; suspicions and fears begin to take hold in my mind, which is a direct attack on my faith in God. To this point, David has fought many great battles with great enemy warriors, but I think the battles within his mind are the most intriguing. So, let's back up a few days to our devotional on Sunday (see post here). If you remember, we said a couple of journal entries were made during this time. Songs that David wrote during his time in Gath. Psalm 56 is one. Listen to the song he secretly wrote during this very lonely time that tells us how he was fighting this battle in his mind: Be gracious to me, O God, for man tramples on me; all day long an attacker oppresses me; my enemies trample on me all day long, for many attack me proudly. When I am afraid, I put my trust in you. In God, whose word I praise, in God I trust; I shall not be afraid. What can flesh do to me? All day long they injure my cause; all their thoughts are against me for evil. They stir up strife, they lurk; they watch my steps, as they have waited for my life. For their crime will they escape? In wrath cast down the peoples, O God! You have kept count of my tossings; put my tears in your bottle. Are they not in your book? Then my enemies will turn back in the day when I call. This I know, that God is for me. In God, whose word I praise, in the Lord, whose word I praise, in God I trust; I shall not be afraid. What can man do to me? I must perform my vows to you, O God; I will render thank offerings to you. For you have delivered my soul from death, yes, my feet from falling, that I may walk before God in the light of life. — Psalm 56:1-13 Hopefully, you see that David realizes he may outrun Saul but he will never outrun his fears. He must fight his waves of fears in faith with the truth of God. This is what you have to do as well. When surrounded by fear, you cannot outrun your fears. You also cannot let the waves of your fears beat you down. You need to fight them by finding shelter on the Rock. Let the waves of your fears beat against the Rock of Your Salvation. God and his truth are firm and unchanging. Look down upon your fears, and do not be afraid. There is nothing man can do to you when you trust in God. God. Given all the events surrounding me and the waves of fear that beat against me, I choose to put my faith in you, the Rock of my Salvation. Amen. #FaithOverFear, #TrustInGod, #BattlesWithin Ask This: When fear overwhelms you, what practical steps can you take to shift your focus back to trusting in God? How do you typically respond when facing repeated challenges? Do you tend to question your actions or see them as opportunities to strengthen your faith? Do This: Have faith in God, and don't try to outrun your fears. Pray This: God, when fear overwhelms me and doubt creeps in, help me to place my trust entirely in You. I know that I can stand firm in Your strength, no matter what comes my way. Amen. Play This: Rock Of Ages - What A

Do you need provisions today? Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. This week, we are in Chapter 21 of 1 Samuel. I've titled this chapter "Man On The Run." Remember, David runs to Nob, where the Tabernacle is located, and speaks with Ahimelech, the priest. Today, he asks Ahimelech for something interesting. Listen to 1 Samuel 21:8-9: Then David said to Ahimelech, "Then have you not here a spear or a sword at hand? For I have brought neither my sword nor my weapons with me, because the king's business required haste." And the priest said, "The sword of Goliath the Philistine, whom you struck down in the Valley of Elah, behold, it is here wrapped in a cloth behind the ephod. If you will take that, take it, for there is none but that here." And David said, "There is none like that; give it to me." — 1 Samuel 21:8-9 God's church is the place to find spiritual provision. David runs to the Tabernacle because he needs provisions. The Priest has no problem giving David this provision because he understands it was God's provision for David to begin with. God gave David the sword to slay Goliath, and Ahimelech understood this. This trophy was merely on loan, kept in the Lord's house for safekeeping. He understood that God was the owner and he was a mere steward of the things of God. The church should always be a place for us to find provision. Not just natural provisions (like bread and weapons) but a place for spiritual provisions. And why? Because they're God's provisions, to begin with. God is the provider of all provisions, both natural and spiritual. And we should freely give them because they were freely given to us. The church should be a place where humanity finds the spiritual provisions they need. The greatest of these needs is salvation. A provision you need that you cannot earn, for which God paid and freely gives to you. If you need his salvation, seek it; he provides it to all who call on his name and surrender to him. God, we surrender to you. We need your provision of your salvation. Amen. #GodsProvision, #SpiritualNeeds, #ChurchCommunity Ask This: Where in your life do you need to trust God more for His spiritual or physical provision, and how can the church support you in meeting that need? What provisions has God already given you that you might be holding onto too tightly rather than using them to serve others as a steward of His blessings? Do This: God provides salvation. Run to his house. Pray This: Lord, I acknowledge that all I have comes from You, and I trust You to meet my every need. Help me to rely on Your provision and use what You've given me to bless others in Your name. Amen. Play This: God Is Able.

Are your friends really foes and, therefore, hard to trust? Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. This week, we are in Chapter 21 of 1 Samuel. I've titled this chapter "Man On The Run." Remember, David is at Nob, at the Tabernacle, talking with Ahimelech. There is someone present this day, a spy of sorts. Listen to 1 Samuel 21:7: Now a certain man of the servants of Saul was there that day, detained before the Lord. His name was Doeg the Edomite, the chief of Saul's herdsmen. — 1 Samuel 21:7 Doeg is a crucial figure in the next chapter, so note this occurrence and what we learn today. There are two details about Doeg worth noting. First, he is an Edomite, a people who have been enemies of God since the time of Moses. The big question is why King Saul allowed an Edomite a place of any authority in his kingdom. Second, we learn that he does not have a minor role. He is the "Chief Shepherd." If you recall, David was a shepherd, too, and we would assume he was one of the best. However, David can not be both a shepherd and a warrior, so Saul must choose someone else with this skill. But his choice is a captured opponent, illustrating again the deteriorating discernment of Saul, which will play into his evil hands in the next chapter because Doeg is not just a captured opponent and chief shepherd but a contracted spy. Sometimes, people who look like friends may actually be foes. This principle is so hard to teach young teens. During the impressionable teen years, when teens are desperate for acceptance, they sometimes surround themselves with compromising people, which leads to compromising decisions. This was a hard-learned lesson for each of my children. But adults fall for this, too. When building new relationships in new situations, we can assume that people have our best interests in mind, only to find out later that this is not entirely true. Thus, we learn time and time again that some people who look like friends might be foes. Once we get burned, we trust less, become less vulnerable, and become more suspicious of those who might be foes. Unfortunately, one application of this reality is within a church small group. Many men hesitate to join a small church group because they perceive members as foes rather than friends. This may seem like a copout, but in small to medium-sized churches, I think their concerns are legitimate. Opening up about our hurts and hangups is risky when we are concerned that someone might breach confidentiality and share that information with others. This was David's situation. All of David's present problems were within the church and his family. He did not know who he could trust or with whom he could be vulnerable. He was suspicious at every turn. He then turned to the men of God, Samuel and now Ahimelech, only to later discover that nearby Doeg was a spy who would sell them out. When we are in vulnerable situations, we need friends, not foes. But if we become vulnerable and get burned by a friend who was really a foe, it's hard to be vulnerable the next time. If this happens too often, we can become resistant to any form of vulnerability. But here is the rub: only by being vulnerable can we test a friendship and build lasting friends that stand the test of time. Vulnerability is difficult to learn, slowly gained, quickly lost, and risky to recover. This is why so many men have many issues with vulnerability. But you need to work through this. Past issues with foes are not present excuses for your lack of friends. You need at least one believing friend you can trust and be vulnerable with in this life. And it's not exclusively your spouse. It's someone of the same gender, with grounded biblical beliefs, who can speak the truth in love and give you the spiritual direction you need. So get a Jonathan, not a Doeg, and build a friendship that will last the test of time. #TrustWisely, #FriendshipMatters, #VulnerabilityInFaith Ask This: Who are the "Doegs" in your life—those you initially trusted but later realized may not have had your best interests at heart? How can you discern true friendship in the future? In what areas of your life do you struggle with vulnerability? What steps can you take to build authentic relationships that foster trust and support, similar to David and Jonathan? Do This: Be vulnerable and build a lasting friendship. Pray This: Father, help me to discern the true intentions of those around me, guiding me to build authentic friendships rooted in trust and faith. Grant me the courage to be vulnerable, knowing that in sharing my struggles, I can find the support and encouragement I need. Amen. Play This: I Surrender All.

Do you prefer rightness or righteousness? Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. Yesterday, we released a new episode of The Vince Miller Show; check it out at the link or button below the video after you read the devotional. This week, we are in Chapter 21 of 1 Samuel. I've titled this chapter "Man On The Run." Remember, David came to Nob, the location of the Tabernacle, and talked with the priest, Ahimelech. Here is the interchange today in 1 Samuel 21:3-6: Now then, what do you have on hand? Give me five loaves of bread, or whatever is here." And the priest answered David, "I have no common bread on hand, but there is holy bread—if the young men have kept themselves from women." And David answered the priest, "Truly women have been kept from us as always when I go on an expedition. The vessels of the young men are holy even when it is an ordinary journey. How much more today will their vessels be holy?" So the priest gave him the holy bread, for there was no bread there but the bread of the Presence, which is removed from before the Lord, to be replaced by hot bread on the day it is taken away. — 1 Samuel 21:3-6 So, let's back up and notice a critical detail in David's story. We notice that the first men that David runs as a man on the run are two holy men: Samuel, the prophet, and Ahimelech, the high priest. This is a natural impulse for any righteous man of God on the run. If you are being stalked by unrighteousness, the right thing to do is run to godly men who can provide you shelter, security, safety, and sustenance. If that is how you feel today, you need to stop trying to solve your problems on your own and run to a trusted believer, get relief, get understanding, and get prayer from them. Next, it is essential to note that it was customary for countrymen to help each other while traveling. Traveling in their time was much more challenging, and carrying food and supplies was a burden if you were moving fast. Travelers relied on people's hospitality when they came to a new town for things like shelter and food. So, David's request was not unusual. The problem is that Ahimelech only had some "Holy Bread," also known as "Shewbread." Twelve unleavened loaves were freshly baked every Sabbath and placed on a table before the Lord at the west end of the Holy Place in the Tabernacle. They were arranged in two stacks of six, like pancakes, on the table, symbolizing that God was the source of nourishment for each of Israel's tribes. According to religious law, only a priest was allowed to consume this bread, but Ahimelech, after a short assessment of David's sexual cleanliness, decided to give him some. This was so unusual that it became a memorable moment, recounted even by Jesus in the New Testament. Today, I want to read the text in Matthew 12 so you can see the point Jesus is making and how he credits Ahimelech's decision. But keep in mind while I read this text that the religious lawyers (the Pharisees) are questioning the judgment of the Great High Priest, and Jesus offers an explanation using the example of Ahimelech. At that time Jesus went through the grainfields on the Sabbath. His disciples were hungry, and they began to pluck heads of grain and to eat. But when the Pharisees saw it, they said to him, "Look, your disciples are doing what is not lawful to do on the Sabbath." He said to them, "Have you not read what David did when he was hungry, and those who were with him: how he entered the house of God and ate the bread of the Presence, which it was not lawful for him to eat nor for those who were with him, but only for the priests? Or have you not read in the Law how on the Sabbath the priests in the temple profane the Sabbath and are guiltless? I tell you, something greater than the temple is here. And if you had known what this means, 'I desire mercy, and not sacrifice,' you would not have condemned the guiltless. For the Son of Man is lord of the Sabbath." — Matthew 12:1-8 Jesus is making a valuable point: when believers value being right over being righteous or value being correct over being compassionate, we have missed the point because we want to make a point. In making our point, we prove we prefer the process of preserving our pride rather than pursuing goodness and mercy. Jesus is using our present story as a prime example of mercy for those who worship legalism and the letter of the law rather than worshipping the Leader who wrote, upheld, and accomplished the Law. However, we must be cautious when applying this principle to everyday life because rejection of legalism can lead to excessive liberty. Notice that Ahimelech is careful about extending his goodwill to David. He gives the bread and will replace it, but he wants to ensure it is being eaten in a way that will honor God. When you are being tested as a believer, you will encounter lonely moments when you feel like you are driving a winding road on a narrow cliff through a thick fog. During these moments, you will need sp

Do you feel you are being tested and find it hard to walk the razor's edge of righteousness? Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. Today, we released a new episode of The Vince Miller Show, "Beliefs That Hold You Back." Check it out at the link or button below the video. This week, we are in Chapter 21 of the Daily Devo. I've titled this chapter "Man On The Run." Here is the text for today in 1 Samuel 21:1-2: Then David came to Nob, to Ahimelech the priest. And Ahimelech came to meet David, trembling, and said to him, "Why are you alone, and no one with you?" And David said to Ahimelech the priest, "The king has charged me with a matter and said to me, 'Let no one know anything of the matter about which I send you, and with which I have charged you.' I have made an appointment with the young men for such and such a place. — 1 Samuel 21:1-2 So, by nature, we should ask again, "What is with all the lying?" In the last chapter, David devises a plan to lie to Saul, and Jonathan tells the lie to test Saul. Here we have another instance. Before I answer your question, let me provide a little background for this moment. David runs to Nob (his next hideout from Saul) about two miles south of Ramah. Ramah is the home of Samuel, but Nob is the location of the Tabernacle, which was the Lord's temporary dwelling until Solomon built the Temple. Naioth, which is in Ramah, is an educational facility for training prophets and priests. Think of Naioth as a seminary where Samuel trained priests in his later years. One of the priests Samuel brought up and appointed was Ahimelech, who is just a mere 2 miles away in Nob. So David shows up in Nob, and Ahimelech is a little surprised. You will notice he is "trembling," probably because he has heard about the recent events with the mercenaries sent to kill David at Naioth, and the spirit of the Lord came upon them. True to form, Ahimelech is concerned and curious. And then David gives him an answer, which appears to be a lie. But I don't think David is lying. I think David means "The King" or "The Lord" when he uses the title "king" because he is standing before a priest who knows The King and King Saul's present issues. So, if you allow me a little latitude today (and this is pure speculation), if we insert this inference into the text, we might read the situation differently. So, let's reread David's statement, assuming he means "The King." "The king has charged me with a matter and said to me, 'Let no one know anything of the matter about which I send you, and with which I have charged you.' So, my guess, and it's only a guess, is that David is not lying. He stands alone before the priest, speaking of "The King," and I think Ahimelech is playing along. Based on the outcome of tomorrow's devotional and how Jesus refers to this instance in the New Testament, I think I am right. So, I think we encounter two men talking in code, trying to walk a careful socio-political and religious line while trying to keep themselves free from sin. But this is what it will be like for David for years. He is going to be challenged to walk on the razor's edge of so many matters, which we will see unfold in a variety of ways. This is one of many reasons why I think God chose David to be the second king of Israel. He was a man after God's heart, willing to be tested for years and walk the razor's edge between righteousness and unrighteousness every time. Are you being tested? Are you walking the razor's edge? If so, walk it carefully and cautiously because God might just be preparing you like he was preparing David. #TestedFaith, #WalkingInRighteousness, #FaithUnderFire Ask This: When have you felt like you were walking on the razor's edge in your faith, balancing between right and wrong? How did you navigate that moment? What steps can you take today to stay faithful to God when the pressure to compromise feels overwhelming? Do This: Submit to the test and let God prepare you. Pray This: Lord, when I feel tested and pressured to compromise, help me to walk faithfully in Your truth. Strengthen my heart to trust Your plan, even when the path feels difficult and unclear. Amen. Play This: Waiting.

Are you lonely, like David, a "man on the run"? Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. Remember, tomorrow, we will air a new episode of The Vince Miller Show entitled "Beliefs That Hold You Back." If you have Video Access on our website, this episode is already available; if not, wait until tomorrow. Be in prayer for this Show. We have invested a lot of time and money into this effort, and we hope this will reach out in a new way so others will be able to hear the Gospel. This week, here in the Daily Devo, we are in 1 Samuel 21. I've titled this chapter "Man On The Run." David will be on the run for a long time, approximately 12-15 years. In the last chapter, he ran to Naioth in Ramah to Samuel and then back to the rocks in Gibeah. In this chapter, he will run to Nob (the location of the Tabernacle) and then to Gath (the home of Goliath). There will be many more locations, 16 in all, that we will list in the coming chapters (i.e., the Cave of Adullam, the king of Moab at Mizpeh, "the stronghold" maybe Masada, the forest of Hereth, Keilah, the wilderness of Ziph, the wilderness of Maon, strongholds of Engedi, "the stronghold" maybe Masada again, the wilderness of Paran, and the finally back to Achish, the king of Gath.) So, I will not give you a key verse for this chapter this week. (If I did, I would pick 1 Samuel 21:4.) Instead, I will share a private excerpt from David's journal during this emotional time, which reveals a lot about what is going on in his mind. But first, I want you to imagine how lonely David felt in these moments. He has been separated from his family and will never speak to his biological father ever again. His father-in-law (King Saul) wants to kill him and has given a charge to the Israelite army to hunt him down. His wife (Michal) and best friend (Jonathan) cannot communicate with him. He cannot take refuge in Samuel in the Naioth at Ramah. David is a fugitive, a man on the run. At the end of this chapter, David hides in Gath, which is in Philistia, the enemy of Israel, and acts like a madman here to preserve his life from King Saul. There could be no more lonely moment for David. However, during this chapter, David made two journal entries, Psalms 34 and 56. And I want to read a portion of Psalm 34 for you today so you can see what David is thinking. The title of this Psalm in your Bible might say: "Of David, when he changed his behavior before Abimelech, so that he drove him out, and he went away." The name "Abimelech" is a title like "President" or "King," and the man this refers to is named Achish, or "Abimelech Achish" who is the focus of 1 Samuel 21:10-15. Here is what he writes. I will bless the Lord at all times; his praise shall continually be in my mouth. My soul makes its boast in the Lord; let the humble hear and be glad. Oh, magnify the Lord with me, and let us exalt his name together! — Psalm 34:1-3 The eyes of the Lord are toward the righteous and his ears toward their cry. The face of the Lord is against those who do evil, to cut off the memory of them from the earth. When the righteous cry for help, the Lord hears and delivers them out of all their troubles. The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit. Many are the afflictions of the righteous, but the Lord delivers him out of them all. He keeps all his bones; not one of them is broken. Affliction will slay the wicked, and those who hate the righteous will be condemned. The Lord redeems the life of his servants; none of those who take refuge in him will be condemned. — Psalm 34:15-22 Even though David is alone and a man on the run, he knows he is never alone. And some of you need to hear this today. If God is with you, you are never alone. David preached, journaled, wrote, and sang this truth to his heart, mind, and soul. He put his hand to paper, his lip to song, his heart to prayer in those lonely moments in the enemy land, pretending to be a madman to stay alive as God's anointed, and God was with him. In lonely moments, never forget that with God, you are never alone. Preach this truth to your soul. Sing about it. Read about it. Write about it. Believe it. God is a deliverer. He is near, not far. And don't forget that during these years, God slowly built an army of hundreds of men around David who followed him from the Struggling Fugitive Years to the Soldiering Fighting Years. #NeverAlone, #FaithInTheWilderness, #GodWithUs Ask This: When have you felt most alone, and how did you remind yourself of God's presence during that time? Like David, how can you preach truth to your soul in moments of fear or loneliness? What practical steps can you take today? Do This: Preach to your soul, "I am not alone, God is with me." Pray This: Lord, in my moments of loneliness, help me to remember that You are always with me, even when I feel abandoned. Give me the strength to trust in Your presence and to find refuge in Your unfailing love. Amen. Play This: I Am Not Alone.

Are you a loyal friend to the end? Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. This week, we are in 1 Samuel 20. I've titled this chapter "Friendship and Loyalty in Adversity." In yesterday's devotional, Jonathan worked on the plan, and now he has to communicate the bad news to David. Here's how it plays out in verses 35-42: In the morning Jonathan went out into the field to the appointment with David, and with him a little boy. And he said to his boy, "Run and find the arrows that I shoot." As the boy ran, he shot an arrow beyond him. And when the boy came to the place of the arrow that Jonathan had shot, Jonathan called after the boy and said, "Is not the arrow beyond you?" And Jonathan called after the boy, "Hurry! Be quick! Do not stay!" So Jonathan's boy gathered up the arrows and came to his master. But the boy knew nothing. Only Jonathan and David knew the matter. And Jonathan gave his weapons to his boy and said to him, "Go and carry them to the city." And as soon as the boy had gone, David rose from beside the stone heap and fell on his face to the ground and bowed three times. And they kissed one another and wept with one another, David weeping the most. Then Jonathan said to David, "Go in peace, because we have sworn both of us in the name of the Lord, saying, 'The Lord shall be between me and you, and between my offspring and your offspring, forever.'" And he rose and departed, and Jonathan went into the city. — 1 Samuel 20:35-42 I assume that although David and Jonathan have made a vow, David is cautious. If Jonathan signals that the coast is clear, David would be a little suspicious that King Saul is up to something, using Jonathan as a pawn. But that is not the case. The signal Jonathan sends is that David needs to run. So, from this point forward, David would be on the run for the next 12-15 years of his life. But notice the affection between the two men. This is affectionate but not sexual and relatively normal for this time and in this culture. I have visited several other cultures worldwide where it is not unusual for men to hold hands while strolling down the street or to kiss on the cheeks (not on the lips) during a greeting or departure. But do not be distracted by this cultural nuance unusual for us in North America and miss the heartfelt emotion and appreciation these men genuinely have for each other. They are heartbroken at this moment because they are a great duo. David and Jonathan are two epic duos in the Old Testament, and if Saul had not come between them, they would have built a powerful Old Testament legacy. But now they know that, given the circumstances, this will never be possible, and this is heartbreaking for them. It's a death blow to their souls because they know this is the last time they will ever interact like this for the rest of their lives. They only have the covenant vows they have made between their houses forever. Reading this epilogue this week reminded me to cherish and invest in the relationships that God has given me while I have them. You should do the same. God has given you relationships that are present for only a season. During these times, you should invest in them, pour your soul into them, learn from them, make covenants together, and enjoy them. There will be a day when they will end, so make sure to make the most of them and be a loyal friend while you still have the time. #LoyaltyInAdversity, #FaithfulFriendship, #BiblicalBonds Ask This: How can you invest in and strengthen the relationships God has given you, even when distance or adversity comes between you? What does true loyalty in friendship look like in your life, and how can you demonstrate it to those you care about? Do This: Be a loyal friend. Pray This: Lord, help me to be a loyal and faithful friend, even when challenges threaten to separate us. May I cherish the relationships you've blessed me with and honor the commitments I've made, trusting you in every season. Amen. Play This: Loyal.

Are you finding peace in God's plan, or are you angry about what God is doing? Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. This week, we are in 1 Samuel 20. I've titled this chapter "Friendship and Loyalty in Adversity." In yesterday's devotional, David and Jonathan built a battle-ready plan to test Saul's demeanor toward David. Today, we will see how Saul will respond and how Jonathan's plan is going to work out in verses 24-34: So David hid himself in the field. And when the new moon came, the king sat down to eat food. The king sat on his seat, as at other times, on the seat by the wall. Jonathan sat opposite, and Abner sat by Saul's side, but David's place was empty. Yet Saul did not say anything that day, for he thought, "Something has happened to him. He is not clean; surely he is not clean." But on the second day, the day after the new moon, David's place was empty. And Saul said to Jonathan his son, "Why has not the son of Jesse come to the meal, either yesterday or today?" Jonathan answered Saul, "David earnestly asked leave of me to go to Bethlehem. He said, 'Let me go, for our clan holds a sacrifice in the city, and my brother has commanded me to be there. So now, if I have found favor in your eyes, let me get away and see my brothers.' For this reason he has not come to the king's table." Then Saul's anger was kindled against Jonathan, and he said to him, "You son of a perverse, rebellious woman, do I not know that you have chosen the son of Jesse to your own shame, and to the shame of your mother's nakedness? For as long as the son of Jesse lives on the earth, neither you nor your kingdom shall be established. Therefore send and bring him to me, for he shall surely die." Then Jonathan answered Saul his father, "Why should he be put to death? What has he done?" But Saul hurled his spear at him to strike him. So Jonathan knew that his father was determined to put David to death. And Jonathan rose from the table in fierce anger and ate no food the second day of the month, for he was grieved for David, because his father had disgraced him. — 1 Samuel 20:18-23 (I share some vital commentary in today's video and audio; you may want to listen to my reading.) We could focus on various aspects of this passage, but I want to center this devotional on Saul's anger. Saul is furious because David poses a threat to his throne, which means he and his family could lose their royal legacy. In transitions like this, an entire lineage would often be wiped out because they threatened the new king and his family. Jonathan knew this, which is why he made that secret covenant with David in yesterday's text. Saul's anger has been slowly brewing against David for a long time. His jealousy is now so outraged that he can no longer see God's plan and it has clouded his vision. Jonathan can see God's plan; therefore, he is at peace with handing the throne to David, as seen yesterday. Saul can only see his own plan, and it is pretty evident here. He has planned to kill David at this meal and remove him as a future threat to "his" kingdom. Saul's anger has become so unjust and violent that it adversely affects his lineage. He rejects God's plan, acts in violence toward the innocent, name-calls, shames his lineage, and embarrasses himself before key leaders in his kingdom. And why? Saul refuses to accept God's plan and deal with his insecurities as a man, leader, husband, and father. Great men are courageous enough to deal with their personal insecurities. If you are angry today, even a tiny bit, stop and ask yourself why. Be courageous, ask the question of yourself, and accept the circumstances before you as God's plan. Then, address the deep insecurities underneath your anger before you end up acting unjustly and hurting the people around you that you love. Some of you need to stop being so irritated and angry all the time. Find peace in God's plan, as Jonathan did. #PeaceInGodsPlan, #ConfrontingAnger, #FaithfulFriendship Ask This: What personal insecurities or fears might fuel your anger, and how can you bring those before God to find peace? In what ways can you actively support and show loyalty to friends who may be facing adversity, as Jonathan did for David? Do This: Trust God's plan and address your anger and insecurities. Pray This: Lord, help me to recognize and confront the insecurities that lead to my anger, so I can find peace in Your plan for my life. Grant me the strength to support my friends with loyalty and love, even in difficult times. Amen. Play This: God Help Me.

Are you building battle-ready bonds? Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. This week, we are in 1 Samuel 20. I've titled this chapter "Friendship and Loyalty in Adversity." In yesterday's devotional, David and Jonathan made a vow. Today, they will devise a way to communicate the intentions of Saul in verses 18-23: Then Jonathan said to him, "Tomorrow is the new moon, and you will be missed, because your seat will be empty. On the third day go down quickly to the place where you hid yourself when the matter was in hand, and remain beside the stone heap. And I will shoot three arrows to the side of it, as though I shot at a mark. And behold, I will send the boy, saying, 'Go, find the arrows.' If I say to the boy, 'Look, the arrows are on this side of you, take them,' then you are to come, for, as the Lord lives, it is safe for you and there is no danger. But if I say to the youth, 'Look, the arrows are beyond you,' then go, for the Lord has sent you away. And as for the matter of which you and I have spoken, behold, the Lord is between you and me forever." — 1 Samuel 20:18-23 Entirely of his own accord, Jonathan devises a plan, promises to execute it, assesses it, and then communicates it. It's simple and systematic: plan, execute, assess, and communicate. If you have served in the military, you know this process well. Here is a simple explanation of the plan. Jonathan suggests that on the final day of the monthly meeting, David should hide in the same spot as before, near a pile of stones. Jonathan will come out for some target practice and shoot three arrows then send a servant to look for them. If Jonathan shouts out to the servant that the arrows are on David's side, David can return safely. But if he shouts out the arrows are beyond David, David needs to escape because Saul still wants to kill him. Building strong alliances in the faith isn't just a nice idea; it's essential. As brothers and sisters in Christ, we're called to engage actively in the battle for our faith. Too often, our spiritual friendships are shallow and superficial, and this is not helpful when we are in a spiritual war and feel hunted down and ensnared by an enemy. This needs to change in the church. Imagine what could happen if we committed to planning, executing, assessing, and communicating with one another about our spiritual lives, the battles we face, and the snares being set for us. Imagine the support and strength we would feel if we engaged in this kind of dialogue and process with a group of believers or merely one other man or woman in the faith. I tried it yesterday with another man, and I felt so much stronger after the conversation, and he was blessed as well. So, step up your game this week. Reach out to one friend, start the conversation, and build some battle-ready bonds. Plan, execute, assess, communicate, and see if God doesn't stir some growth in both of you. #BattleReadyBonds, #FriendshipInFaith, #LoyaltyInAdversity Ask This: How can you actively engage with a friend or fellow believer this week to strengthen your spiritual bond and support one another in your faith journey? Reflect on a time when a friend helped you navigate a challenging situation. How can you apply the principles of planning, executing, assessing, and communicating to deepen your current relationships in faith? Do This: Plan, execute, assess, and communicate. Pray This: Father, help me to build solid and battle-ready bonds with my brothers and sisters in Christ so we can support one another in our spiritual journeys. Grant us the wisdom to plan, communicate, and encourage each other as we face the challenges ahead. Amen. Play This: You Are Mighty.

Are you committed to someone in the Lord? Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. This week, we are in 1 Samuel 20. I've titled this chapter "Friendship and Loyalty in Adversity." In yesterday's devotional, David let Jonathan know he believes his father is still in hot pursuit of his life. Today, they will make a vow to each other in verses 10-17: Then David said to Jonathan, "Who will tell me if your father answers you roughly?" And Jonathan said to David, "Come, let us go out into the field." So they both went out into the field. And Jonathan said to David, "The Lord, the God of Israel, be witness! When I have sounded out my father, about this time tomorrow, or the third day, behold, if he is well disposed toward David, shall I not then send and disclose it to you? But should it please my father to do you harm, the Lord do so to Jonathan and more also if I do not disclose it to you and send you away, that you may go in safety. May the Lord be with you, as he has been with my father. If I am still alive, show me the steadfast love of the Lord, that I may not die; and do not cut off your steadfast love from my house forever, when the Lord cuts off every one of the enemies of David from the face of the earth." And Jonathan made a covenant with the house of David, saying, "May the Lord take vengeance on David's enemies." And Jonathan made David swear again by his love for him, for he loved him as he loved his own soul. — 1 Samuel 20:10-17 This is a remarkable moment for six reasons: First, it is Jonathan's most extensive speaking role in all Scripture. Second, David, the most talked about man in all of Scripture, is remarkably silent in this text. Third, Jonathan takes responsibility for David's escape by devising a plan to lie to his father and king, which is treason. Fourth, Jonathan swears two oaths: that he will obtain information and pass it along, which is espionage. Fifth, Jonathan is aware this will put his life at risk. Sixth, David would swear an oath to save Jonathan's lineage, a promise he would keep much later. But the part I love the most about this text is how many times Jonathan invokes the name of the Lord. The Lord is preeminent in this meeting, mission, and moment. It made me ask the probing question: how often have I made plans with another believer in the name of the Lord? This week, reflect on the possibility of strengthening your relationship with another believer by expressing your desire to support them in their faith. Share your challenges, listen to theirs, and pray together to commit to supporting each other. Many believers have casual friends who are not committed. What David and Jonathan had was a commitment to each other in the Lord, which is what I bet you want and need. #FaithfulFriendship, #CovenantCommitment, #LoyaltyInChristunity Ask This: How can you intentionally support a fellow believer in their faith journey this week, and what specific commitments can you make to strengthen that relationship? Reflect on a time when a friend's loyalty helped you through a difficult situation. How can you cultivate that same level of commitment in your friendships today? Do This: Be committed to someone in the Lord. Pray This: Lord, help me cultivate deep, committed, faith-based friendships, just as David and Jonathan did. Grant me the courage to support and uplift my brothers in Christ through every challenge we face together. Amen. Play This: God of All My Days.

Do you have a loyal friend who will defend you? Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. Remember to check out the Vince Miller Show. I have included a link in the button above. This week, we are in 1 Samuel 20. I've titled this chapter "Friendship and Loyalty in Adversity." In yesterday's devotional, we found David seeking assurance from Jonathan amidst his fears of Saul's relentless pursuit. Today, David is going to put this to the test in verses 5-9: David said to Jonathan, "Behold, tomorrow is the new moon, and I should not fail to sit at table with the king. But let me go, that I may hide myself in the field till the third day at evening. If your father misses me at all, then say, 'David earnestly asked leave of me to run to Bethlehem his city, for there is a yearly sacrifice there for all the clan.' If he says, 'Good!' it will be well with your servant, but if he is angry, then know that harm is determined by him. Therefore deal kindly with your servant, for you have brought your servant into a covenant of the Lord with you. But if there is guilt in me, kill me yourself, for why should you bring me to your father?" And Jonathan said, "Far be it from you! If I knew that it was determined by my father that harm should come to you, would I not tell you?" — 1 Samuel 20:5-9 It seems that three-day meetings were regularly held in the king's house during the new moon cycles, and officials and warriors such as David were required to attend. However, David is still unsure about Saul, so he is uncertain if he wants to attend. The unresolved question is whether Saul experienced a permanent spiritual change in Naioth when he encountered the Spirit or if it was merely a temporary experience. Over the past months, David has experienced escalating threats from Saul. Now that royal orders have been given to kill David, David does not want to intentionally expose himself to the trap with the king. David devises a pretty good plan. He plans to test Jonathan's loyalty first and then Saul's. But the plan involves telling a pretty elaborate lie to test Saul's irritation with David's absence. Johnathan would tell his father that he permitted David to return to Bethlehem, the place where he was anointed king (1 Samuel 16:13), and the father to whom Saul would not allow him to return (1 Samuel 18:2). David is smart enough to know that if anything would awaken a spirit of aggression, it would be Jonathan permitting David to escape a secret snare of the throne. Even though the Bible does not justify lying, both David and Jonathan choose to tell Saul a lie. But notice the tone of the text. David accepts righteous justice but believes that Saul will not act righteously; Jonathan might, but Saul will not. So, instead of submitting his life to a death trap, they devise a way to stick at the snare. And their test works. There are extremely rare instances in life when lying is justified. However, when your life is threatened by unrighteous, evil people who have set snares for you, it is one of those instances. I would hope that if an invader broke into your home, you would lie about a hiding child. Or if you were a Jew being hunted down by a nazi regime, you would lie to hide your whereabouts because there are very rare times when the moral imperative to protect innocent lives against evil outweighs the ethical dilemma of lying. This will be "shown" further in the coming verses. Loyalty and support for believers are crucial during tough times. They have been for me. This week, reach out to a friend who is going through adversity. Send a text, email, make a call, or plan to meet for coffee. Encourage them and let them know they are not alone. Your presence will help them feel less isolated, and it might help them through the snares being set for them. #LoyaltyInAdversity, #FaithfulFriendship, #StrengthInCommunity Ask This: Who in your life has shown unwavering loyalty during your toughest times, and how can you express your gratitude to them this week? In what ways can you be a more supportive friend to someone who is currently facing adversity? What specific actions can you take to encourage them? Do This: Reach out to a friend in adversity. Pray This: Father, thank You for the loyal friends You've placed in my life; help me to be a source of strength and encouragement for them as well. Give me the wisdom and courage to support others in their times of need, reflecting Your love and loyalty. Amen. Play This: Tell All My Friends.

Do you feel the weight of betrayal? Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. Don't forget to check out the Vince Miller Show. I have included a link to the Show below. There will be a new episode every week. The difference between what we do here in the Daily Devo and the Show is that here, we are going to continue to work through the Bible devotional one book at a time. Over in the Show, we will tackle topics and series relevant to your life in a biblical, thematic, and practical way. I am super excited about this new endeavor, and I need you to pray for us as we launch it. This week, we are in 1 Samuel 20. I've titled this chapter "Friendship and Loyalty in Adversity." Let's read verses 1-4: Then David fled from Naioth in Ramah and came and said before Jonathan, "What have I done? What is my guilt? And what is my sin before your father, that he seeks my life?" And he said to him, "Far from it! You shall not die. Behold, my father does nothing either great or small without disclosing it to me. And why should my father hide this from me? It is not so." But David vowed again, saying, "Your father knows well that I have found favor in your eyes, and he thinks, 'Do not let Jonathan know this, lest he be grieved.' But truly, as the Lord lives and as your soul lives, there is but a step between me and death." Then Jonathan said to David, "Whatever you say, I will do for you." — 1 Samuel 20:1-4 David was innocent of sin and guilt before Saul, a theme that continued until Saul's death. Yet Saul never relinquished his pursuit of David. David also knows that Saul has kept some information from his son, so David discloses this deception to Jonathan to test his loyalty to him and God's plan for his succession as king. This situation is a matter of life and death for David. He has enemies on every side: people outside of Israel who want to kill him, and now royalty within who want him dead. Other than Samuel, there is only Jonathan, who appears to be a loyal confidant in the house of Saul. Do you have a loyal and godly friend? If not, you should. The best way to begin is not by finding a loyal and godly friend. It's by being a loyal and godly friend. The way to start is simply by acting like a friend. Text, email, and call to check in on your brother occasionally. Ask him how life is going, hear his struggles, give guidance, and pray for him. After a few days, check back in again and revisit that issue. Offer to help. Make a connection. Invite him to an activity. Take him to lunch. Be a confidant and a trusted, loyal, and godly friend. Then, one day, you will probably look up to see that across from you sits a loyal and godly friend in your adversity who does the same for you. #GodlyFriendship #LoyaltyInFaith #BrotherhoodInChrist Ask This: Reflect on a time when a friend showed loyalty during a difficult season in your life. How did that experience impact your faith and your view of friendship? What practical steps can we take this week to cultivate deeper, more supportive friendships within our community? How can we hold each other accountable in this journey? Do This: Be a loyal friend and gain a loyal friend. Pray This: Father, I thank You for the gift of friendship and the loyal hearts that support us in our struggles. Help me to be a faithful friend and to seek out those who will walk alongside me in faith, especially during challenging times. Amen. Play This: Loyal.

Do you have a covenantal relationship with a loyal spiritual friend? Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. Shameless plug today. Don't forget to check out the Vince Miller Show. I put a link to the Show below. There will be a new episode every week. The difference between what we do here in the Daily Devo and the Show is that here, we are going to continue to work through the Bible devotional one book at a time. Over in the Show, we will tackle topics and series relevant to your life in a biblical, thematic, and practical way. I am super excited about this new endeavor, and I need you to pray for us as we launch it. This week, we are in 1 Samuel 20. I've titled this chapter "Friendship and Loyalty in Adversity." In the last chapter, we left off with David leaving Saul's house, never to return, leaving behind his good friend and wife. This chapter is a chronicle of David trying to figure out if there is a permanent change in Saul after Saul's experience with the Spirit in Naoith. So David will secretly consult with Jonathan to see if it is safe to return. Of course, it's not. But the final verse of this chapter punctuates a covenant that the two men make between each other. Then Jonathan said to David, "Go in peace, because we have sworn both of us in the name of the Lord, saying, 'The Lord shall be between me and you, and between my offspring and your offspring, forever.'" And he rose and departed, and Jonathan went into the city. — 1 Samuel 20:42 If we survey David's whole life, we can divide the segments of David's life into four seasons: The Shepherding Season. The Struggling Season. The Soldiering Season. The Sovereign Season. We are about to enter the "Struggling Season" or the "Hiding Years." Chapter 20 begins a 12-15-year stretch during which David runs from King Saul for his life. That's a long time! Long seasons of trials are trying. When we enter them, we often have no idea what we are getting into. David had no idea what was about to happen or how long it would take for him to move from being anointed king to his appointment as king. But he did have one thing. He had a friend, a confident, and a brother in Jonathan, and they were going to depart from each other, making a covenant agreement that would be fulfilled many years from now after Jonathan's death. Covenants between godly men are missing from the modern church. Believers have become too causal and transactional in their relationships. We enter into most relationships "to get" not "to give" and are unwilling to commit to the initiative and investment that covenantal relationships require. But every person encounters a Struggling Season. For some, this is short, and for others, it may be prolonged. But a covenant agreement with a loyal and godly friend makes the journey much easier. It's like an anchor. It anchors us to the Lord. It anchors us to a godly believer. It anchors us to an unchanging agreement. It anchors us emotionally, mentally, and spiritually when we question the future. Are you going through a struggling season? Then maybe it's time to make a covenant. Perhaps it's not exactly like the one Jonathan and David made, a lifelong covenantal promise that extended to future generations. But maybe you need to make a covenant agreement with a brother for a season. Who is that person, and what is that covenant? And if you cannot think of either, maybe it's time to take some initiative and make an investment to discover the spiritual blessings that await. It's time to bring back the covenant of relationship. #CovenantFriendship #LoyaltyInAdversity #SpiritualBrotherhood Ask This: Considering David and Jonathan's covenant, what qualities are essential for a loyal spiritual friendship? How can we cultivate these qualities in our relationships? Have you experienced a "Struggling Season" in your life? How did your relationships—whether supportive or lacking—impact your journey during that time? What role could a covenantal friendship have played in that experience? Do This: Initiate a covenant. Pray This: Father, thank You for the gift of loyal friends and the strength of covenant relationships. Help me to be intentional in cultivating these bonds, especially during my challenging seasons, so that I may anchor myself and others in Your love and truth. Amen. Play This: Back to the Father.

When you are being pursued, do you watch your defense? Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. This week, we are in 1 Samuel 19. I've titled this chapter "When Enemies Pursue God Will Protect." In this chapter, we have learned that two of King Saul's children, his son (Jonathan) and his daughter (Michal), advocate for David. Let's read what happens next in 1 Samuel 19:18-24. Now David fled and escaped, and he came to Samuel at Ramah and told him all that Saul had done to him. And he and Samuel went and lived at Naioth. And it was told Saul, "Behold, David is at Naioth in Ramah." Then Saul sent messengers to take David, and when they saw the company of the prophets prophesying, and Samuel standing as head over them, the Spirit of God came upon the messengers of Saul, and they also prophesied. When it was told Saul, he sent other messengers, and they also prophesied. And Saul sent messengers again the third time, and they also prophesied. Then he himself went to Ramah and came to the great well that is in Secu. And he asked, "Where are Samuel and David?" And one said, "Behold, they are at Naioth in Ramah." And he went there to Naioth in Ramah. And the Spirit of God came upon him also, and as he went he prophesied until he came to Naioth in Ramah. And he too stripped off his clothes, and he too prophesied before Samuel and lay naked all that day and all that night. Thus it is said, "Is Saul also among the prophets?" — 1 Samuel 19:18-24 So, a little heads up about this moment: David leaves Saul's house and never returns. David will never see Jonathan again because he dies in battle. He will also not see Michal until Saul and Jonathan's death (2 Samuel 3:13-16). During this time, David and Michal remarry other spouses, and once they are reunited, their marriage appears strained (2 Samuel 6:16). Here, we notice that David retreats to Samuel's village (about 3 miles away), but when Saul's assassins arrive, they are met by the overwhelming power of the Spirit of God. Remember, we must see this moment as the third of three defensives. First, he is defended by a friend who advocates for him. Next, he is defended by his wife, who conceals his escape. Last, he is defended by the Spirit of God, and nothing will protect him better than the Spirit of God. As a note: this is not a case of believers being "slain in the Spirit." These men have not come to Samuel and David with any type of spiritual intrigue. They are arresting agents who want to assassinate David. They come in three waves yet are so engrossed by the Spirit that they cannot continue their mission. They now work for the King of Glory instead of King Saul. If you are counting, over the last two chapters, there have been seven attempted assassinations on the life of David by Saul (three spears are thrown, three expeditions sent, and one additional attempt by Saul himself). But when Saul arrives at Naioth, something interesting happens. He uncontrollably casts off his royal attire, which is undoubtedly a divine stripping of his royal identity before the Spirit and will of God. In this symbolic moment, Saul is stripped, overpowered, and arrested by God. The man who has come to arrest and assassinate David has now been arrested and apprehended by God. Retreating is necessary and justified at times. David had attempted everything possible to keep peace with Saul in this situation. His only choice was to run, and he had no idea how things would pan out in Naioth or that this would carry on for 12 long years. However, he knew one thing—there was a man of God there who was on God's side. David exemplifies fighting with integrity and understanding when the fight will result in losses for everyone. Running from the problem was the only option, and during the retreat, the Spirit of God did all the fighting for him. Sometimes, David fought with the Spirit, and other times, the Spirit fought for him. In any case, we should do the same. Either fight with the Spirit or let him fight for you, but never ever fight with the Spirit of God. It will strip you bare and might leave you feeling a little naked before your perceived enemies. #DivineProtection, #GodsIntervention, #SpiritualDefense Ask This: How have you experienced God's protection when you felt pursued or threatened, and how can these experiences strengthen your faith in His ability to shield you today? In what areas of your life are you currently struggling to rely on the Spirit for protection or guidance, and what steps can you take to invite His intervention into those situations? Do This: Let the Spirit fight for you or with you. Pray This: Lord, thank You for Your unwavering protection and the power of Your Spirit that guards me in times of trouble. Help me to trust in Your divine defense and seek Your guidance in every challenge I face. Amen. Play This: You've Already Won.

Are people setting snares for you today? Don't worry. God's got this; you'll see how. Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. This week, we are in 1 Samuel 19. I've titled this chapter "When Enemies Pursue God Will Protect." In yesterday's devotional, we learned how David faced relentless opposition from King Saul despite his faithfulness and success. Saul hurled a spear into the wall, attempting to kill David, going back on the promise he had given to his son Jonathan not to harm David. We continue today with more drama in 1 Samuel 19:11-17, which reads: Saul sent messengers to David's house to watch him, that he might kill him in the morning. But Michal, David's wife, told him, "If you do not escape with your life tonight, tomorrow you will be killed." So Michal let David down through the window, and he fled away and escaped. Michal took an image and laid it on the bed and put a pillow of goats' hair at its head and covered it with the clothes. And when Saul sent messengers to take David, she said, "He is sick." Then Saul sent the messengers to see David, saying, "Bring him up to me in the bed, that I may kill him." And when the messengers came in, behold, the image was in the bed, with the pillow of goats' hair at its head. Saul said to Michal, "Why have you deceived me thus and let my enemy go, so that he has escaped?" And Michal answered Saul, "He said to me, 'Let me go. Why should I kill you?'"— 1 Samuel 19:11-17 This situation must have been extremely irritating to Saul. If we return to the last chapter, Saul planned to use his daughter Michal as a snare for David (1 Samuel 18:21). But here, the snare King Saul set becomes the snare he stepped in. This adds insult to injury for the one who dares to scheme against the one blessed by God. The irony of manipulations is that they often become self-inflicted snares, which warn us that the best scheme is not to scheme or set a snare but to trust the salvation of the Savior. He is the one who saves us from all our enemies. This principle is woven throughout Scripture. Consider the scheme of Joseph's brothers, who sold him into slavery. Their plan was meant to harm him, but their scheme played into God's scheme to elevate Joseph to the second highest position in the most powerful empire at the time, where he could leverage his authority to save his entire lineage from famine (Genesis 50:20). God's can turn the tables on our adversaries and use their schemes for his good will at any point in history. He has done it before and will do it again. So, what's the takeaway? When we encounter opposition or snares set by others, we can find comfort in knowing God is aware of what the opposition is doing. He can use their evil schemes to accomplish a greater and glorious plan, turning what looks like a troubling trap into a tremendous triumph. #DivineProtection, #TrustGod, #OvercomingOpposition Ask This: How have you experienced or observed situations where others' schemes or opposition seemed to backfire and lead to a greater good, and what did that teach you about trusting God's plan? In what areas of your life are you facing opposition or challenges, and how can you shift your perspective to see God's protection and purpose in those situations? Do This: Let God save you from the snare and live righteously. Pray This: Lord, I trust that You are in control even when others' schemes seem to surround me. Help me to see Your hand in every challenge and find peace in Your protection and purpose. Amen. Play This: Control.

Do you feel attacked by someone for doing what you thought was right? Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. This week, we are in 1 Samuel 19. I've titled this chapter "When Enemies Pursue God Will Protect." Let's jump into our text in 1 Samuel 19:8-10, which reads: And there was war again. And David went out and fought with the Philistines and struck them with a great blow, so that they fled before him. Then a harmful spirit from the Lord came upon Saul, as he sat in his house with his spear in his hand. And David was playing the lyre. And Saul sought to pin David to the wall with the spear, but he eluded Saul, so that he struck the spear into the wall. And David fled and escaped that night. — 1 Samuel 19:8-10 David's success is irritating to Saul for four reasons: Jealousy: Saul is irritated because he is jealous of David's success and popularity. Divine Favor: Saul is irritated by God's blessing on David and the removal of his blessing. Political Threat: Saul is irritated because David is a political threat to his throne and legacy. Personal Insecurity: Saul is irritated because his perpetual sin has led to a deteriorating mental state and an increasingly harmful spirit. It's heartbreaking to see Saul in this state. He is so spiritually troubled and irrational, that he's sitting inside Israel's safest house with a spear in his hand, ready to harm one of the greatest warriors of Israel. Thus Saul is going to close out his life a very irritated and irrational man, husband, father, and leader. Godly success can occasionally provoke irrational opposition. When one lives according to God's will and encounters blessings and achievements, it can provoke negative reactions from opponents. Maybe not to the point where they are trying to shoot you, but they might sandbag you, gaslight you, or sideline you. But how should we respond? Here are two suggestions. First, it's important to acknowledge that opposition does not necessarily reflect on your character or abilities, but rather, it serves as a testament to the impact of God's work in your life. Second, you must understand at these moments that God's protection is as real for you as it was for David. Here are a few practical steps to help you feel the weight of ungodly opposition today: Focus on God's mission: Like David, continue to pursue the path God has set before you, regardless of the opposition. Seek God's protection: Pray for God's protection and wisdom as you navigate challenges. Maintain Godly integrity: Respond to hostility with grace and integrity, knowing that your conduct can be a powerful witness. Remember that all these points are based on the fact that you may encounter opposition because you have been faithful and obedient to God. When enemies come after you, rest assured that God will protect you. Stay firm and trust in God's provision. #DivineProtection, #TrustInGod, #OvercomingOpposition Ask This: How can you actively seek and recognize God's protection when you face opposition or hostility, and what practical steps can you take to maintain your focus on His mission despite the challenges? In what ways have you experienced jealousy or hostility from others due to your faithfulness and success, and how can you respond with grace and integrity while continuing to trust in God's provision and protection? Do This: Focus on the mission, seek God's protection, and maintain integrity. Pray This: Lord, I trust in Your protection when I face opposition and hostility, knowing that You are my shield and refuge. Help me to stay focused on Your mission and respond with grace, relying on Your wisdom and strength in every challenge. Amen. Play This: Every Giant Will Fall.

Do you have a family member who is super irritating right now? If not, that person is probably you. Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. This week, we are in a new chapter, 1 Samuel 19. I've titled this chapter "When Enemies Pursue God Will Protect." Let's jump into our text in 1 Samuel 19:4-7, which reads: And Jonathan spoke well of David to Saul his father and said to him, "Let not the king sin against his servant David, because he has not sinned against you, and because his deeds have brought good to you. For he took his life in his hand and he struck down the Philistine, and the Lord worked a great salvation for all Israel. You saw it, and rejoiced. Why then will you sin against innocent blood by killing David without cause?" And Saul listened to the voice of Jonathan. Saul swore, "As the Lord lives, he shall not be put to death." And Jonathan called David, and Jonathan reported to him all these things. And Jonathan brought David to Saul, and he was in his presence as before. — 1 Samuel 19:4-7 We need different types of godly friends—not just good friends, but godly friends who will have our backs and risk something to stand in the gap between. That is what David has in Jonathan. He has an ally, as we discussed in the last chapter. Still, we see he is also willing to advocate for him as a new member of the family, a warrior, and the one through whom the Lord worked great salvation in Israel, underscoring the importance of godly friends. Jonathan is not oblivious to the situation in his family, and he is not going to sit around passively while this act of aggression and injustice takes place. He knows that his father's sinful progression toward David is ever-increasing. So he decides to step in to temper his father's spirit, advocate for his friend and brother-in-law, and bring peace to the men he cares about. Yet we all know this is hard to achieve in a family if the offended member cannot get beyond a past situation. As long as I have lived, I have seen that most families have one member who harbors bitterness from past situations. There is usually also one member with emotional or behavioral issues. When these two attributes combine, this person plays the role of the angry, bipolar, grudge-holder. The problem in David's instance is that King Saul retains all the power in the family system, which is oppressive because his authority and decisions trump everyone else. Therefore, Jonathan steps in to play his role: the peacemaker. If you have read ahead, you will know that this is a mere temporary fix and that the next decade of David's life was a living hell running from the bitterness, anger, and aggression of his father-in-law. Nonetheless, David and Jonathan worked to honor God and Saul, his role, and their relationship through it all. We all have difficult family members. My parents were challenging to love as a believer. But I also had to learn how to love and respect them even when our values did not align and remain faithful to biblical teaching to honor them as far as possible. Today, reflect on how you are doing with this in your family. Consider the person's role that irritates you, and then find a way to maintain peace and godly character as far as possible. We don't get to choose our family, but we are responsible for choosing to act in a God-honoring way.

When enemies pursue you need a godly friend. Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. This week, we are in a new chapter, 1 Samuel 19. I've titled this chapter "When Enemies Pursue God Will Protect." Let's jump into our text in 1 Samuel 19:1-3, which reads: And Saul spoke to Jonathan his son and to all his servants, that they should kill David. But Jonathan, Saul's son, delighted much in David. And Jonathan told David, "Saul my father seeks to kill you. Therefore be on your guard in the morning. Stay in a secret place and hide yourself. And I will go out and stand beside my father in the field where you are, and I will speak to my father about you. And if I learn anything I will tell you." — 1 Samuel 19:1-3 This passage requires little explanation but contains a couple of crucial details. First, it marks the first time King Saul openly expresses his desire to kill David. Until this point, much of his scheming had been conducted in private, evidenced by his decision to give David command, put him in harm's way during battle, propose a dowry of 100 Philistine foreskins, and two previous spear attacks. Second, this also marks the first moment Jonathan walks a careful line between his friend and his father. This is a cautious matter for him because advocacy for a perceived enemy could be interpreted as treason. But this draws attention to an essential point for believers. When enemies attack us, we need good and godly friends to help us through the situation. We cannot do situations like these alone. Jonathan, an ally to David, knows his innocence, is willing to advocate for him, and still has some power of persuasion over his father. While this might be a cautious matter, Jonathan is willing to risk his relationship and reputation for his friend. You need friends like this—good and godly friends. But some of you are living this life without a single believing friend. Some of you have too many bar, boating, and betting friends but have no believing friends. What are you going to do when an enemy attacks? Who is going to advocate for you? Do you think those friends at the bar will advocate for you? I promise you they will not. They will bail on you, but they will never back you. Build an infantry of mighty men around you. That's what David does, so he never battles alone, whether the battle is within or without. You will discover in this chapter that David turns to three friends who become instruments of protection for him: Jonathan, Michal, and Samuel. Two of the three happen to be children of King Saul. #GodlyFriends, #FaithfulSupport, #ProtectionInPeril Ask This: Who are the godly friends in your life that you can rely on when facing challenges, and how can you actively support them in return? How can you build and nurture a network of faithful allies who will stand with you and advocate for you in difficult times? Do This: Get believing, friends. Pray This: Lord, thank You for the godly friends You have placed in my life who support and protect me in times of trouble. Help me to be a faithful ally to others and to build strong, Christ-centered relationships that reflect Your love and grace. Amen. Play This: What A Friend.

Are you being pursued by an enemy? Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. This week, we are in a new chapter, 1 Samuel 19. I've titled this chapter "When Enemies Pursue God Will Protect." The key verse of this chapter is 1 Samuel 19:10, which reads: And Saul sought to pin David to the wall with the spear, but he eluded Saul, so that he struck the spear into the wall. And David fled and escaped that night. — 1 Samuel 19:10 Most assume that David's path to the throne after the defeat of Goliath was easy. It was not. It was well over 15 years from when Samuel anointed him to the time he was finally appointed King of Israel. During this time, he battled with enemies within and without the ranks. Perhaps the most challenging was understanding how to fight with Saul, who was still God's anointed and appointed over the people of Israel. Many believe leadership is an easy task. It is not. Leadership entails all kinds of battles. It's a firey test of battles fought within and without the ranks of leadership. But there is nothing like the moment when you experience the dual battle of enemies within and enemies without, which is what we will read in this chapter. David will fight battles with the Philistines only to come home and fight battles with his father-in-law. One truth in this chapter gives hope to those attacked by enemies: if we are faithful to God, he will always provide an escape. If you feel pursued or attacked by any enemy today, seek refuge in God. Don't take vengeance, battle alone, or take matters into your own hands. Let God fight the battle for you. He's a better warrior. He can see your battle. He knows the tactics of your enemy. He can find a just means of justice and deliverance when you cannot. Let him fight for you, and let him have the victory. #DivineProtection, #FaithInTheBattle, #GodsDeliverance Ask This: In what areas of your life do you feel pursued or attacked by challenges or adversaries, and how can you invite God's protection and guidance into those situations? How can you apply David's response to Saul's pursuit in your own leadership or personal challenges, particularly when dealing with conflict or feeling attacked by others? Do This: Let God fight every battle. Pray This: Lord, when I feel pursued and under attack, help me to trust in Your protection and seek refuge in Your strength. Guide me to rely on Your wisdom and let You fight my battles, knowing You will provide a way of escape. Amen. Play This: Belong To You.

Are people conspiring against you? Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. This week, we have read 1 Samuel 18. I've titled this chapter "Allies and Adversaries." In yesterday's devotional, we explored how David's unwavering faith enabled him to overcome Saul's impossible task and demonstrate his value to Michal and Israel. Today, we discover how all this worked out for Saul and David in verses 28-30: But when Saul saw and knew that the Lord was with David, and that Michal, Saul's daughter, loved him, Saul was even more afraid of David. So Saul was David's enemy continually. Then the commanders of the Philistines came out to battle, and as often as they came out David had more success than all the servants of Saul, so that his name was highly esteemed. — 1 Samuel 18:28-30 This moment is insightful and inspiring for obedient believers. I hope you see the hope in this text. The hope is this: If you are with God, no one and no plan will ever be able to stand against you. God is frustrating Saul's plans, which is frustrating him. Not only that, Saul's wicked plans are turned against him, revealing God's plan, which is becoming David's path to the throne. Saul, out of jealousy, anger, and fear, unintentionally writes an unstoppable plan for David to be the next king of Israel. This is God. The Lord brings the counsel of the nations to nothing; he frustrates the plans of the peoples. — Psalm 33:10 God, we pray today for our lives, family, and world. We pray that you will frustrate the plans of the wicked and that we will never walk in their way. When the wicked conspire against you and us, their wickedness will be turned against them and revealed as the path and plan for the obedient. Amen. #DivineVictory, #GodsPlan, #OvercomingAdversity Ask This: How have you experienced God's hand in turning your challenges or successes into opportunities for growth and more significant purpose? Reflect on a time when what seemed like a setback became a part of God's more excellent plan for you. How can you respond to opposition or jealousy with faith and confidence, knowing that God can use these challenges to fulfill His plans in your life? How might you adjust your attitude or actions to align more closely with God's purpose during times of difficulty? Do This: Let God frustrate them and reveal his plan for you. Pray This: Lord, thank you for turning my successes and challenges into opportunities for your greater purpose. Help me remain steadfast and faithful, trusting that you are using every situation to advance your plan and reveal your glory in my life. Amen. Play This: Belong to You.

Are you dealing with deceitful people? Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. This week, we are reading 1 Samuel 18. I've titled this chapter "Allies and Adversaries." In yesterday's devotional, we discovered how Saul's jealousy led him to set David up for failure by assigning him an impossible task. Yet, David's unwavering faith and anchored identity in God turned the challenge into a resounding success. Today, we are going to see Saul make another attempt to eliminate David as he gives him an impossible task in verses 17-27: Then Saul said to David, "Here is my elder daughter Merab. I will give her to you for a wife. Only be valiant for me and fight the Lord's battles." For Saul thought, "Let not my hand be against him, but let the hand of the Philistines be against him." And David said to Saul, "Who am I, and who are my relatives, my father's clan in Israel, that I should be son-in-law to the king?" But at the time when Merab, Saul's daughter, should have been given to David, she was given to Adriel the Meholathite for a wife. Now Saul's daughter Michal loved David. And they told Saul, and the thing pleased him. Saul thought, "Let me give her to him, that she may be a snare for him and that the hand of the Philistines may be against him." Therefore Saul said to David a second time, "You shall now be my son-in-law." And Saul commanded his servants, "Speak to David in private and say, 'Behold, the king has delight in you, and all his servants love you. Now then become the king's son-in-law.'" And Saul's servants spoke those words in the ears of David. And David said, "Does it seem to you a little thing to become the king's son-in-law, since I am a poor man and have no reputation?" And the servants of Saul told him, "Thus and so did David speak." Then Saul said, "Thus shall you say to David, 'The king desires no bride-price except a hundred foreskins of the Philistines, that he may be avenged of the king's enemies.'" Now Saul thought to make David fall by the hand of the Philistines. And when his servants told David these words, it pleased David well to be the king's son-in-law. Before the time had expired, David arose and went, along with his men, and killed two hundred of the Philistines. And David brought their foreskins, which were given in full number to the king, that he might become the king's son-in-law. And Saul gave him his daughter Michal for a wife. — 1 Samuel 18:17-27 I feel sorry for the guy who had to count out the foreskins, don't you? Essentially, dowries were "advanced alimony" paid to a father's family to provide for a daughter in the event of the son-in-law's death. But Saul does not need David's dowry. All he wants is David's death. But he doesn't even get that. David pays the dowry in full and doubles down on it, which is counterproductive for Saul because David doubles down on his value to Michal and Israel. Saul's ongoing devious behavior reveals the true nature of his heart. If we go back to Chapter 17 and the battle with Goliath, the promised reward was threefold: great wealth, the king's daughter, and exemption from taxes (1 Samuel 17:25). To date, Saul has not honored any of these three, and even went back on his word regarding his daughter. However, you can see David is not that concerned with these rewards because his concern is doing the will of God. This emphasizes an important point: David is not leading to get a response or reward but out of a relationship with the Lord. If you lead to get a response or reward, you won't lead for long because spiritual leadership rarely has immediate rewards. The spiritual rewards of spiritual leadership are realized much later. For some, we won't even see the reward until we enter our eternal reward. Leadership must be done out of, based on, and from our relationship with the Lord. The Lord is our only immediate reward. We lead for his pleasure and glory, not for ours. His pleasure is our reward. But back to the text. King Saul's "Plan B" is to put David in harm's way and have him killed in battle by the Philistines. So, if we fast-forward about two to three decades, David resorts to the same "Plan B" with a man named Uriah, the husband of Bathsheba. David had committed adultery with Bathsheba, she bore a child, and David tried to cover up his sin by putting Uriah in harm's way and having him killed (2 Samuel 11). If you wonder where David learned to do that, it was right here. As David was put in harm's way by Saul's disobedient heart, so David would put Uriah in harm's way by his disobedient heart. Thus, we see the devious nature of deceit. By being in the company of people who practice deceit, we are indirectly being discipled by their deceitfulness. Their deceitful ways become our deceitful ways. This is the nature of all mankind. This is why we need a Savior. We are ridden with the incurable disease of deceit, picked up and passed on from one generation to the next. King Saul was deceitful. King David would be deceitful. But we

Are you being set up for an impossible task? Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. This week, we are reading 1 Samuel 18. I've titled this chapter "Allies and Adversaries." Yesterday, we explored the time bomb of jealousy and anger through the actions of Saul and David in contrast. Now let's see how David moves through this experience in verses 12-16: Saul was afraid of David because the Lord was with him but had departed from Saul. So Saul removed him from his presence and made him a commander of a thousand. And he went out and came in before the people. And David had success in all his undertakings, for the Lord was with him. And when Saul saw that he had great success, he stood in fearful awe of him. But all Israel and Judah loved David, for he went out and came in before them. — 1 Samuel 18:12-16 This situation was a total setup by King Saul. We all have been victims of this type of deliberate manipulation. If you're envious and afraid of someone you see as a rival, you set them up to fail in front of their supporters. You give them an impossible task that will turn the people against them. Human reason would suggest King Saul's plan was a "killer" plan. Keep in mind that David was only 15-17 years old. He couldn't even serve in the Israelite Army until he was 20, much less command a thousand troops. In Saul's mind, this "promotion" was a remedy for disaster. That is until we read verse 14 (our key verse of this chapter), where we learn that David was not only a giant killer but a killer leader. He's the golden boy, so Saul's devious plan backfires, further establishing David's fame. I don't know if you know or have met people like this, but it can be mesmerizing and irritating at the same time, which is precisely what happens in our story. David is further mesmerizing to the people and further irritating to Saul. But I want to draw attention to a tiny, often ignored detail. When we have an anchored identity in Christ, the challenges before us look less challenging. Think about David and all the challenges he has faced over the last two chapters. He has been bullied by brothers, battled a giant, removed from his home, forced to play music before a bipolar-possessed jealous and angry king, and is now given an impossible job. How does a believer handle these challenges? Anchoring their identity and living by faith in the Lord is the only way. Anchor your identity in the Lord. Refuse to let today's challenges alter your perception of God or shift your thinking about your relationship with the Lord. Have unwavering faith that God will abundantly provide all the resources you need. God has people and resources everywhere. He will undoubtedly supply what you need for your challenge, but you must trust God's unwavering strength and provision and boldly step into the challenge. #FaithInChallenges, #GodsProvision, #OvercomingObstacles Ask This: What are some "impossible tasks" you've faced that seemed designed to make you fail? How did trusting in God's strength change your perspective or outcome? When you feel set up for failure, how can you better anchor your identity in Christ to face challenges with boldness and faith? Do This: Anchor your identity and have faith. Pray This: Lord, when I face impossible tasks, help me to trust in Your strength and provision rather than my abilities. Anchor my identity in You, and give me the courage to step boldly into every challenge, knowing You will guide me through. Amen. Play This: Nothing is Impossible.

Are you dealing with your anger and insecurity? Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. This week, we are reading 1 Samuel 18. I've titled this chapter "Allies and Adversaries." At this point, jealousy is ticking down in King Saul against David, and let's see how this turns out in verses 9-12: And Saul eyed David from that day on. The next day a harmful spirit from God rushed upon Saul, and he raved within his house while David was playing the lyre, as he did day by day. Saul had his spear in his hand. And Saul hurled the spear, for he thought, "I will pin David to the wall." But David evaded him twice. Saul was afraid of David because the Lord was with him but had departed from Saul. — 1 Samuel 18:9-12 If you have been following me for this series, you see a strong contrast here. Two men, both anointed by Samuel, would be kings of Israel. But now, a harmful spirit rushes upon Saul, and David, as commissioned, tries to soothe this harmful spirit with worship to the Lord. David is fighting all kinds of battles, and they are all battles with a spiritual enemy. This time, the battle happens to be with an evil spirit possessing an ally, and the weapon in his hand is a weapon of worship. On the other hand, Saul holds a weapon of war in his hand and will misuse it against his ally, whom he perceives to be an adversary. Insecure leaders act this way and often fight the wrong enemy. They see every attack as an attack against them because they incorrectly associate their identity with the attack. Therefore, when allies try to help, it only seems to hurt and then they hurl words or harmful objects in their hands. King Saul is experiencing an undeniably harmful spirit. Those of you prone to anger know exactly what this feels like. You become consumed with rage when you perceive an attack. Then, all reason turns off, and you hurl words and objects. Unfortunately, you sometimes do this to people who are innocent of guilt and might be trying to help. You have to stop acting that way and get your heart and hands right with the Lord. Looking back to the beginning of Saul's story, we see that this is not a sudden progression. It has been brewing for a long time. But Saul has never addressed it, and now it will result in a miserable end. Thus, Saul will become a lasting example of someone who starts with a flare and finishes with a fizzle. That's not the goal. The goal is to finish with a flare, but the only way there is to escape the devil's snare. If you are possessed with anger, deal with it. Confess it to the Lord. Acknowledge your insecurities. Repent and reconcile with others. And for those who have started with a fizzle, you need to know it is never too late to finish with a flare. #SpiritualWarfare, #AngerAndInsecurity, #WeaponsOfWorship Ask This: How do you handle jealousy or insecurity when they arise, and what steps can you take to ensure you don't act out in anger towards those who are allies? How can you use worship or positive actions to combat negative emotions and conflicts, similar to how David used his music to soothe Saul's harmful spirit? Do This: Deal with your anger. Pray This: Lord, help me recognize and address the root of my anger and insecurity. Guide me to respond with worship and grace rather than hostility. Grant me the strength to see my allies clearly and to handle conflicts with wisdom and humility. Amen. Play This: Raise A Hallelujah.

Is jealousy about to explode within you? Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. This week, we are reading 1 Samuel 18. I've titled this chapter "Allies and Adversaries." David returns from defeating Goliath and builds an instant ally with Jonathan, but an adversary will rise from inside the ranks. Let's see the plot thicken in 5-9: And David went out and was successful wherever Saul sent him, so that Saul set him over the men of war. And this was good in the sight of all the people and also in the sight of Saul's servants. As they were coming home, when David returned from striking down the Philistine, the women came out of all the cities of Israel, singing and dancing, to meet King Saul, with tambourines, with songs of joy, and with musical instruments. And the women sang to one another as they celebrated, "Saul has struck down his thousands, and David his ten thousands." And Saul was very angry, and this saying displeased him. He said, "They have ascribed to David ten thousands, and to me they have ascribed thousands, and what more can he have but the kingdom?" And Saul eyed David from that day on. — 1 Samuel 18:5-9 This situation is a ticking time bomb of jealousy, which will drive King Saul crazy. Given the right circumstances, jealousy will drive anyone crazy. Take a look at this time bomb. Saul, the tallest man in Israel, was the natural choice for the battle with Goliath, but he never engaged. After forty days of waiting, a young, good-looking, musical shepherd boy comes out and defeats Goliath and wins the day for Israel. King Saul sets him over the men of war, and then the women of the land start singing David's praises. Now, we should pause to recognize that these women's praise is wrongly attributed to David. It was God who won the battle, and David knows that. But David cannot control the crowd and what the women say about him, and King Saul cannot either. Therefore, Saul feels like he is losing complete control because of this situation. God is having his way against the Philistines for Israel and against Saul for David, and this is deeply frustrating for Saul because he can feel the kingdom slipping through his fingers. The jealousy time bomb begins to tick. Jealousy will drive you crazy. But it only drives you crazy if you fail to see God's divine hand at work and wrongly link your identity to actions you take, skills you perfect, power you possess, and positions you retain. I know too many men, me included, who ignore what God is doing and give too much credence to the things of this life. When we do this, we tie our sense of self-worth to the things of this life. Once that happens, we feel threatened by loss, and jealousy sets in. In the coming verses, Saul's jealousy leads to anger, outbursts, and irrational violence. When jealousy begins to tick within you, you have to stop the ticking time bomb. The best way to do this is to: Stop tying your identity to perceived losses, be that a skill, power, or position. Start seeing God's plan in the situation and trust it. Force yourself to celebrate with people who are winning with God's plan. If you don't deal with your jealousy, it will escalate, as seen in the coming verses. #Jealousy, #TrustInGod, #OvercomingEnvy Ask This: In what areas of your life might you struggle with jealousy, and how can you shift your focus from perceived losses to seeing God's plan at work? How can you actively support and celebrate others' successes while guarding against feelings of envy and recognizing God's hand in their achievements? Do This: Stop the time bomb. Pray This: Lord, help me recognize and confront the jealousy that stirs within me, guiding me to see Your divine plan in every situation. Grant me the strength to celebrate others' successes and trust that my worth is in You alone. Amen. Play This: My Worth Is Not In What I Own.

Are you perverting or forsaking experiences in love? Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. This week, we are reading 1 Samuel 18. I've titled this chapter "Allies and Adversaries." David comes back from defeating Goliath and speaks with King Saul with the head of Goliath in his hand, and we pick up in verse 1: As soon as he had finished speaking to Saul, the soul of Jonathan was knit to the soul of David, and Jonathan loved him as his own soul. And Saul took him that day and would not let him return to his father's house. Then Jonathan made a covenant with David, because he loved him as his own soul. And Jonathan stripped himself of the robe that was on him and gave it to David, and his armor, and even his sword and his bow and his belt. — 1 Samuel 18:1-4 What we witness here is a deep, soulful connection between Jonathan and David. You will see love for David all over this chapter: Jonathan loved him as his own soul (18:1). He loved him as his own soul (18:3). But all Israel and Judah loved David (18:16). Michal loved David (18:20). Saul's daughter loved him (18:28). There is something unique about brotherly affection or spiritual love. It is distinct and fulfilling in a way that some do not understand. I have experienced this numerous times in my ministry and spiritual life. Jesus referenced this in Matthew 12 when he was in a crowded home, and his biological family was waiting outside for him. Here's the text: While he was still speaking to the people, behold, his mother and his brothers stood outside, asking to speak to him. But he replied to the man who told him, "Who is my mother, and who are my brothers?" And stretching out his hand toward his disciples, he said, "Here are my mother and my brothers! For whoever does the will of my Father in heaven is my brother and sister and mother." — Matthew 12:46-50 Jesus is referencing the divine family we are adopted into under the Heavenly Father and the fact that this relationship between us, him, and each other enjoys certain benefits and priorities that transcend those of our biological family. In my opinion, the gay community loves to hijack a misinterpretation of this relationship. It uses it as textual support for homosexual love when there is no evidence of this anywhere between these two men. They read homosexual love into this text (i.e., eisegesis), which twists and perverts the beauty of the love between these two men because they don't understand the profound connection of spiritual love. But, while the gay community perverts it, many in the Christian community forsake it. Believers often miss out on the experience of true spiritual love because we are not committed to a community of faith. We get saved. We may attend a church. But if we are not connected with the community, we behave like consumers. Christian consumers miss out on the soulful experience of spiritual love. When we don't experience it, this has an ongoing effect on spiritual love because if we are not it, we won't talk about it, share it, or extend it. I experience spiritual love with believers all the time. It's not sexual, but it is soulfilling. These soulful friends are closer than a biological brother (Prov. 18:24). They pour into me, and I pour into them, and I have no problem leaving a conversation with them, declaring, "I love you, brother." I think every believer wants to know this, and I believe Jesus wants you to enjoy it. But to experience it, you must stop forsaking (or perverting) spiritual love in the family of faith. Only you can take the needed initiative and insert yourself into a relationship with believers. It will take time and effort, but once you experience it, you will know what it means to be knit to the soul of another. And then you will know what David and Jonathan had here, that was so special. #SpiritualLove, #BrotherlyBond, #DivineConnection Ask This: How can you actively seek out and cultivate deeper, soulful connections within your faith community, and what steps might you take to move beyond a consumer mentality in your relationships with fellow believers? In what ways might you be inadvertently perverting or forsaking the true nature of spiritual love, and how can you realign your approach to fully embrace and experience the depth of affection described between David and Jonathan? Do This: Take the initiative and experience spiritual love. Pray This: Lord, help me recognize and cherish the profound spiritual connections You've placed in my life. Guide me to actively engage with my faith community in a meaningful way. Teach me to embrace and reflect Your divine love, fostering relationships that mirror the depth of the bond between David and Jonathan. Amen. Play This: Brother.

Do you feel attacked by adversaries? Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. This week, we are reading 1 Samuel 18. I've titled this chapter "Allies and Adversaries." In this chapter, we will get an inside look into the King's house and see the chemistry between David and Saul's family. The tension between them is palpable, like watching an episode of The Kardashians. We will watch as some within Saul's family attach to David and others attack him. They either love or hate, fuse or frustrate, attach or attack, and all stem from the declaration in verse 14, which reads: And David had success in all his undertakings, for the Lord was with him. — 1 Samuel 18:14 When the Lord is "with you," a blessing is evident. Sometimes, this blessing prompts reactions from those around you that are not always positive. Godly success can incite attachment and acclaim as well as attack and animosity. This dynamic is no different in your life. If you walk closely with the Lord and pursue his will, you will encounter the same. People will either understand and attach or feel threatened and attack. This isn't a response to you (sometimes we think it is) but a response to God's favor, threatening others who want that success, blessing, and praise for themselves. This is a reality of the Christian life. It comes with advocates and adversaries. Advocates who praise, support, and sustain us. Adversaries who are fearful, threatened, and conspire against us. It's critical to humbly embrace our advocates and be undeterred by the attack of our adversaries. Adversaries will unsettle you and draw out sinister thoughts and intentions, but your commitment to God when attacked by them is a testament to God's blessing and his continued success. If you are being attacked by an adversary today, leverage these attacks to deepen your reliance on and relationship with God. Be faithful to his blessings and his success. Don't let adversaries draw out selfish and sinister thoughts and intentions. They aim to steal your success and blessings because they think they are possessed when they are not. Success and blessings are an overflow of an ongoing relationship with God that is stewarded and never possessed. #FaithAndFavor, #HandlingOpposition, #BlessingsAndBattles Ask This: How do you respond to the success and blessings in your life when faced with criticism or opposition? How can you adjust your reaction to remain focused on God's purpose and avoid being derailed by negativity? How can you better support and encourage others experiencing God's favor while also dealing with adversity? How can you be a source of positive reinforcement and avoid contributing to their struggles? Do This: Respond correctly to your adversaries without nullifying the blessing. Pray This: Lord, help me to remain steadfast and faithful even when faced with criticism or opposition due to Your blessings in my life. Grant me the strength to embrace Your favor with humility and respond to adversity with grace and trust in Your plan. Amen. Play This: Belong to You [Enemy Can't].

Are you missing God's plan? Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. This week, we have read through 1 Samuel 17. I've titled this chapter "Battling Giants." David has now come to the battle, engaged in the battle, run into the battle, and won the battle. However, the last three verses replay the previous scene from King Saul's perspective with additional details. Let's read 55-58: As soon as Saul saw David go out against the Philistine, he said to Abner, the commander of the army, "Abner, whose son is this youth?" And Abner said, "As your soul lives, O king, I do not know." And the king said, "Inquire whose son the boy is." And as soon as David returned from the striking down of the Philistine, Abner took him, and brought him before Saul with the head of the Philistine in his hand. And Saul said to him, "Whose son are you, young man?" And David answered, "I am the son of your servant Jesse the Bethlehemite." — 1 Samuel 17:55-58 Saul is completely blind to David's identity even though we know he has encountered him more than once: first, as his therapeutic musician, and second, when he dresses him in his armor and sends him to fight Goliath. Yet the whole time, Saul is blind to the fact that the man who will replace him is standing before him. There are moments when we are all blind to God's plan. In this instance, Saul is blind because he failed to submit to God; therefore, God removed his Spirit from him and gave it to David. Many believers act just like Saul in their relationships with God. They want all the benefits of God's salvation but are blind to God's plan because they refuse to submit to the Spirit that reveals his plan. Therefore, when God's plan is right before them, they miss it because they are too consumed with desperation for God's salvation that they miss the plan of God that is at work around them. Today, don't live blind to God's plan. Take notice of what God is doing in and around you. Invite His Spirit to speak to you and give you direction. Instead of focusing solely on your need for his salvation from your circumstances, try to see his work within your circumstances. This is the crucial difference between Saul and David. One had insight into God and his plan, while the other was blind to it. As a result, David embraced the plan, whereas Saul remained blind to it even though it was right before him. Don't walk around blind and miss God's plan today. See God at work and join him. #GodsPlan, #SpiritualAwareness, #FaithInAction Ask This: In what areas of your life might you miss God's plan because you're too focused on your desires or circumstances? How can you actively invite the Holy Spirit to reveal God's work around you and join Him in His plan today? Do This: Open your eyes to God's work in your circumstances. Pray This: Lord, open my eyes to see Your plan at work in my life and give me the courage to follow where You lead. Help me not to be consumed by my own desires but to trust Your purpose and walk in step with Your Spirit. Amen. Play This: Open The Eyes Of My Heart.

Do you want victory in your battle? Then, you need to have the right perspective. Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. This week, we are in 1 Samuel 17. I've titled this chapter "Battling Giants." David comes upon the line of battle between the Philistines and Israelites. He is ushered before King Saul, and today, he heads onto the battlefield. Let's read 41-54: And the Philistine moved forward and came near to David, with his shield-bearer in front of him. And when the Philistine looked and saw David, he disdained him, for he was but a youth, ruddy and handsome in appearance. And the Philistine said to David, "Am I a dog, that you come to me with sticks?" And the Philistine cursed David by his gods. The Philistine said to David, "Come to me, and I will give your flesh to the birds of the air and to the beasts of the field." Then David said to the Philistine, "You come to me with a sword and with a spear and with a javelin, but I come to you in the name of the Lord of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied. This day the Lord will deliver you into my hand, and I will strike you down and cut off your head. And I will give the dead bodies of the host of the Philistines this day to the birds of the air and to the wild beasts of the earth, that all the earth may know that there is a God in Israel, and that all this assembly may know that the Lord saves not with sword and spear. For the battle is the Lord's, and he will give you into our hand." When the Philistine arose and came and drew near to meet David, David ran quickly toward the battle line to meet the Philistine. And David put his hand in his bag and took out a stone and slung it and struck the Philistine on his forehead. The stone sank into his forehead, and he fell on his face to the ground. So David prevailed over the Philistine with a sling and with a stone, and struck the Philistine and killed him. There was no sword in the hand of David. Then David ran and stood over the Philistine and took his sword and drew it out of its sheath and killed him and cut off his head with it. When the Philistines saw that their champion was dead, they fled. And the men of Israel and Judah rose with a shout and pursued the Philistines as far as Gath and the gates of Ekron, so that the wounded Philistines fell on the way from Shaaraim as far as Gath and Ekron. And the people of Israel came back from chasing the Philistines, and they plundered their camp. And David took the head of the Philistine and brought it to Jerusalem, but he put his armor in his tent. — 1 Samuel 17:31-40. There are two perspectives here that make this moment glorious. One | David Sees The Crime. The crime in this situation is not taunting; it's more specific. The crime is "cursing David and Israel, who are sons of Abraham, by foreign gods." Cursing was a crime of spiritual significance, and David understood this. This moment is a battle over a theological injustice between a divine God and human opinions of God. David happens to be the only one who sees the crime and is willing to act in faith. In our battles, it is essential to see the spiritual injustice. We often don't think about this, and our conflicts become a battle of opinions. We end up fighting with others over personal opinions and injuring each other. I have done this numerous times in my life with friends, family, and business associates, and I have many regrets. I would have responded differently if I had just slowed down and seen the situation spiritually. But here, David gets it right. He has a unique perspective on the situation. He sees the crime and the spiritual resolution and that he needs to be the mouthpiece and manifestation of the solution. Start looking at your battle spiritually. Two | David Sees The Purpose. David understands this battle is over the "name of the Lord," fought with supernatural weapons and "not with sword or spear," so that "all the earth may know there is a God in Israel." David sees the purpose of the fight. It's not a fight between two armies or two people. It's a fight between injustice and a God of justice. If we look at the battle any other way, it will bring glory to David, his skill, training, weapons, and courage, distracting attention from God, who used David to accomplish a divine purpose. God will condescend to use us all, but he does it so the earth will know his glory—it's never for our glory. If we can learn this lesson and embrace God's purpose, God might condescend to use us more. The key is learning to see from a spiritual perspective and how God wants to use situations for his purpose and glory, not our own. The lesson for us is two-fold: See your battle spiritually. See God's purpose in your battle. And then remember, with God, you are never overwhelmed or overpowered, regardless of the size of the opponent, the weapons of your opponent, or the expanse of their psychological and verbal attack. We have a God who fights with weapons, and in a way, that man

Do you confuse spiritual confidence with self-confidence? Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. This week, we are in 1 Samuel 17. I've titled this chapter "Battling Giants." We have the battle scene. In today's text, David approaches the King before running to the battle. Let's read 31-40: When the words that David spoke were heard, they repeated them before Saul, and he sent for him. And David said to Saul, "Let no man's heart fail because of him. Your servant will go and fight with this Philistine." And Saul said to David, "You are not able to go against this Philistine to fight with him, for you are but a youth, and he has been a man of war from his youth." But David said to Saul, "Your servant used to keep sheep for his father. And when there came a lion, or a bear, and took a lamb from the flock, I went after him and struck him and delivered it out of his mouth. And if he arose against me, I caught him by his beard and struck him and killed him. Your servant has struck down both lions and bears, and this uncircumcised Philistine shall be like one of them, for he has defied the armies of the living God." And David said, "The Lord who delivered me from the paw of the lion and from the paw of the bear will deliver me from the hand of this Philistine." And Saul said to David, "Go, and the Lord be with you!" Then Saul clothed David with his armor. He put a helmet of bronze on his head and clothed him with a coat of mail, and David strapped his sword over his armor. And he tried in vain to go, for he had not tested them. Then David said to Saul, "I cannot go with these, for I have not tested them." So David put them off. Then he took his staff in his hand and chose five smooth stones from the brook and put them in his shepherd's pouch. His sling was in his hand, and he approached the Philistine. — 1 Samuel 17:31-40 Three features of David's approach in this text: One | God's Man Is Bold But Humble. David's boldness is striking. He is a 15-year-old boy who steps into the octagon to fight a UFC champion in hand-to-hand combat. And he is confident that God will deliver him. But his courage should not be confused with secular understandings of "self-confidence." Never wrongly correlate David's confidence with "self-confidence" because that is not what this is. David's confidence is not born from himself. It was born from faith and assurance in God and God's power. You'll notice here that David doesn't boast about his strength or abilities. Instead, he merely recounts his past victories over similar opponents like Goliath, attributing his success to God. This blend of boldness and humility is what believers need. We should not be overly inactive, camouflaged in meekness, or not excessively active, presented in arrogance. We have to find the right blend of boldness and humility; in this instance, David gets this right. Two | God Did It, Then. He'll Do It Now. David's spiritual confidence is rooted in his past experiences with God. For David, this moment is a continuance of the work of God through him. He believes that what God did back in the fields with the sheep, he will do on the war field with sheepish people. Most of us fail to remember this. And there is a reason why. When God delivers us in the past, we fail to see it as God's victory; therefore, in the present, we put unrealistic pressure on ourselves and fail to act. You have to stop seeing past victories as your victories if they were God's victories. If you don't, you will never have the strength for the present battle and the victory that God wants you to know. Three | God's Logic Defies Human Logic. The way David approaches the battle defies conventional logic. Instead of sporting Saul's armor and carrying his sword, which would have been standard for a battle like this, David opts for his familiar sling and a few stones. His choice may seem irrational from a human perspective, but it highlights a key feature of David's faith: faith in God results in responses that sometimes defy human logic. While it may look humanly irrational, it is spiritually rational. When bold faith is required, we have to go back to what God has done before, and we must use the same tools of faith again in what appears to be a slightly different situation. And this will bother some people because, to onlookers, it may look illogical, but we all know it's perfectly logical. Three features of David's approach: He behaved bold but humble. He believed God did it then and would do it now. He believed God's logic defies human logic. So, the question I will leave you with today is: What do you need to change in your approach to today's challenges? Note: Spiritual confidence is not self-confidence. #FaithOverFear, #BoldAndHumble, #DivineVictory