Hearing His Voice #288

Once again David asked God what to do. “Do not attack them straight on,” God replied. “Instead, circle around behind and attack them near the poplar trees.”

1 Chronicles 14:14

David had just won a victory over the Philistines by getting permission and direction from God. So when the Philistines attacked again, David could have simply assumed God’s previous guidance still applied. But David was wise enough to know that God’s direction varies from time to time and situation to situation, so he asked again. This time, God directed him quite specifically to take a different tack. Yesterday’s instructions did not suffice for today.

We need to live by that truth. God’s nature never changes, so any instructions He gives us based on His character will always apply. But His methods often change, so we need to ask Him repeatedly for specific direction. He won one battle by having His people march around a city, won another by reducing an army to three hundred men, and won this one by signaling His people with the sound of feet marching in the trees. All of these approaches were one-time strategies, never repeated in biblical history, even in similar situations. God refuses to let us live exclusively by principles. We have to stay in close relationship with Him, keeping our ears open, in order to know what to do.

Whatever you are facing today, listen to God for the right approach. Yesterday’s methods may or may not be God’s desire for you today. You are in unique circumstances, and you need unique guidance. Precepts and principles aren’t enough; like daily bread that needs to be eaten fresh each day, the voice of God is your nourishment. Ask Him for a fresh word, listening for His guidance every step of the way. He will speak specifically to your need.

Lord, what should I do? I don’t have enough wisdom for the demands of this day, but You do, so my eyes are on You. I desperately need Your guidance. Please make it clear.