Posted: 25 November 2024

From a sermon given on 24 November 2024:

And every one that was in distress, and every one that was in debt, and every one that was discontented, gathered themselves unto him; and he became a captain over them: and there were with him about four hundred men.
(1 Samuel 22:2)

David had just fled from King Saul, who sought to kill him. At this moment, he was not a king or a warrior; he was a fugitive. David found himself in the cave of Adullam, a place that symbolizes a moment of vulnerability and desparation. As David hid in the cave, something unexpected happened. Word spread about his location and others in distress began to gather around him. This group wasn't made up of society's elites; they were individuals who were in debt, discontented, and in distress.

David didn't have the luxury of turning people away. Instead, he embraced them and became their leader. Under his guidance, these distressed individuals were transformed into a formidable group. Our shared struggles can bring us closer together and help us support each other through difficult times. Leadership is't about having all the answers; it's about pointing people to the One who has the solutions. David's experience in the cave of Adullam teaches us that God provides a run for everyone in distress. God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble (Psalm 46 :1). When in danger from visible or invisible enemies, we can flee to him and we will be safe. Our struggles today are preparing us for greater responsibilities tomorrow.

Further Readings:

For it became him, for whom are all things, and by whom are all things, in bringing many sons unto glory, to make the captain of their salvation perfect through sufferings.
(Hebrews 2:10)

But when Jesus heard that, he said unto them, They that be whole need not a physician, but they that are sick.
(Matthew 9:12)

For he shall deliver the needy when he crieth; the poor also, and him that hath no helper. He shall spare the poor and needy, and shall save the souls of the needy. He shall redeem their soul from deceit and violence: and precious shall their blood be in his sight.
(Psalm 72:12-14)