Today’s Devotional, first posted on April 26, 2015, is provided by Pastor Jason Sato.

Spiritual Food for Thought for the Weekend 

“Having a Longer Memory of God”

2 Samuel 5:17-20a (ESV)

When the Philistines heard that David had been anointed king over Israel, all the Philistines went up to search for David. But David heard of it and went down to the stronghold. [18] Now the Philistines had come and spread out in the Valley of Rephaim. [19] And David inquired of the LORD, “Shall I go up against the Philistines? Will you give them into my hand?” And the LORD said to David, “Go up, for I will certainly give the Philistines into your hand.” [20] And David came to Baal-perazim, and David defeated them there.

My first mission trip was quite an experience.  I had witnessed firsthand the power and goodness of God.  I had met believers who endured persecution yet were excited for opportunities to love their unbelieving neighbors.  In the midst of poverty and tragedy, God was doing a mighty work.  I returned home, convinced that our God is mighty to save…and then I immediately forgot.  

Once I got back to San Diego, the challenges and struggles of everyday life seemed so much more real than God’s greatness.  Problems in my church and my city appeared far too large for God to do anything about them.  Though I never explicitly thought this (partially because it’s so ridiculous), I felt that God was mighty in other cities or countries but not in mine.

King David proves to have a longer memory than mine.  Immediately following David’s coronation as king of Israel, he faces his first challenge.  To “congratulate” him on his coronation, the Philistines gather to seek him out and kill him.  

David knows that the God who had brought him to the throne is still in control.  The God who was powerful and faithful in his early days is ever the same.  David asks for the Lord’s guidance and determines to go to battle only when God has led him into it.  He knows that he needs God’s favor more than an airtight strategy.  The odds are stacked against him, but David waits and listens for the voice of God and then obeys.

Take a moment to remember God’s faithfulness to you over the years.  Recall how He has demonstrated His power in your life.  In what area of life today do you need a God like that? 

Prayer: Father, I thank You that You remain the same yesterday, today, and forever.  You are always good, always faithful, always mighty to save.  Lord, I need Your grace and strength more today than when I first met You.  For the sake of Your Son, be my Rock and my Salvation as You have always been. Amen.

Bible Reading for Today: Jeremiah 48