+DEV+ Still Seeking God

Date: January 13, 2011 3:29 AM
Topic: +DEV+ Still Seeking God

Still Seeking God

"He answered, 'While the child was alive, I fasted and wept. I thought, Who knows? The Lord may be gracious to me and let the child live'" (2 Samuel 12:22-23a).
Scripture Focus: 2 Samuel 12:13-23

The prophet Nathan told David that the child he conceived in adultery would die. When the child became ill, David refused to eat, and he pleaded with God to spare the child.

While David fasted and prayed, he may have thought about Moses. The Scriptures told of times God changed his mind due to Moses' prayers. As long as the child lived, David was determined to plead with God for mercy. But the child died.

David's time of prayer while waiting no doubt changed him. After the death, David went to the house of the Lord and worshiped. Waiting didn't distance him from God. It kept David focused on the holy character of God rather than allowing bitterness to burrow a hole deep within.

Praying for God's mercy while living through a tragedy can seem futile if our desires aren't realized. Yet He is faithful. Seeking God allows us see the truth of who He is, not just the pain of what we lose. Seek God even while your heart aches; that is the heart of worship.

Insight: When you're faced with sorrow, ask God to show you the truth of who He is and why He is worthy to be praised.