Morning & Evening Daily Devotional Reading– February 9

by Charles H. Spurgeon, Revised and Edited by William C. Neff

“David inquired of the Lord.”

—2 Samuel 5:23

When David made this inquiry he had just fought the Philistines and gained an important victory. The Philistines had come against him with great armies, but, by the help of God, David sent them away running. It is important to note, however, that when they came against him a second time, David did not go up to fight them without inquiring of the Lord. Since he had been victorious the first time, he might have said, as many others have, “I beat them once, and I’ll beat them again. Why should I seek God’s help?” But that’s not what David did. He had gained one battle by the strength of the Lord, and he would not go into another until he had the same assurance.

Learn from David, dear Christian, and take no step without God. If you walk the path of duty, take God for your compass; if you would steer your ship through the dark waves, leave the controls in the hand of the Almighty. We would avoid many rocks, if we would let our Father take the helm.

A Puritan once said, “A Christian who carves for himself will surely cut his own fingers.” This is a great truth. Another said, “He that rushes out before the cloud of God’s providence goes on a fool’s errand.” And so he does. We must follow God’s leading, and if his leading waits, then we should wait until the way is clear. God promises, “I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go.”

Let’s take all of our difficult decisions to Him and say, “Lord, what will you have me to do?” Don’t leave your room this morning without inquiring of the Lord. [M&E]