Providential Pathways

This morning’s reading of 1 Samuel 17 highlights David’s awesome confidence and his trust in God; it is profoundly inspiring. The giant Goliath taunted the Israelites for 40 days; his armor probably weighed more than David, with rocks in his pocket. The Israelite army was scared, but David was not. He knew God, and he knew that God is bigger than any problem.

‘David replied to the Philistine, “You come to me with sword, spear, and javelin, but I come to you in the name of the Lord of Heaven’s Armies—the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied. Today the Lord will conquer you, and I will kill you and cut off your head. And then I will give the dead bodies of your men to the birds and wild animals, and the whole world will know that there is a God in Israel! ‘
1 Samuel 17:45-46

David, a young man, probably a teenager, killed Goliath, and the Philistines ran off in terror, only to be killed by the Israelites. Our next reading was Psalm 144. I love how he describes God in verse 2.

‘He is my loving ally and my fortress, my tower of safety, my rescuer. He is my shield, and I take refuge in him. He makes the nations submit to me. ‘
Psalms 144:2

Our New Testament reading was Matthew 9, and we see Jesus healing multiple times because people had faith. Our pastor had an excellent message on trusting God and having faith yesterday. Yesterday’s sermon and today’s readings are speaking to me about my own trust. I need the Holy Spirit to have faith. I need to know God and know he has my back, no matter what giant problem I might face. When I feel God is speaking to me about my faith, my trust in Him, I tend to worry about what’s on the horizon. I feel like the rug is getting ready to get yanked out from underneath me. But God knows what’s beyond the horizon, and if I fall, Jesus will catch me.

Jesus is the Good Shepherd; He holds not only my life in His hands, but the entire universe.

I need to trust my creator, rescuer, mighty fortress, and take refuge in him. I need to be strong and courageous,  trust God, and know that, whatever giant problem comes my way, God is bigger; his love and mercy will overcome my doubts, fears, and any trouble that may come our way.

I’m also so blessed to be part of a great church family and to have so many great Christian friends who are willing to support me through the dark valleys. When I face uncertainty, I know I need to draw closer to God. We know we will have trouble in this world, but we don’t talk much about divine providence anymore. God is infinite wisdom and power, and knows the best pathway for our lives.

‘The Lord says, “I will guide you along the best pathway for your life. I will advise you and watch over you. ‘
Psalms 32:8