“David therefore besought God for the child; and David fasted, and went in, and lay all night upon the earth. ‘Then David arose from the earth, and washed, and anointed himself, and changed his apparel, and came into the house of the LORD, and worshipped: then he came to his own house; and when he required, they set bread before him, and he did eat.‘
“2 Samuel 12:16, 20
I recently had a question about how to handle situations when it appears that a promise hasn’t been fulfilled. I’m certain this question has crossed our minds too, especially when our heartfelt prayers seem unanswered. We often wonder why and may be tempted to withdraw or shield our hearts from God Himself. It’s important to note the use of the word “seem” here, as we tend to draw conclusions that aren’t entirely accurate due to our limited perspective and the presence of other variables.
In the passage, David had sinned against God, and as a consequence, God informed him that he would lose his son. Despite this, David, relying on his knowledge of God’s mercy, fervently prayed for his son’s life. Nevertheless, his son died even after his deep prayers.
Let’s focus on David’s response next. He rose and celebrated, as if something sorrowful hadn’t just occurred. “But now the child is dead. Even if I fast and I pray, I cannot bring him back to me. One day, I will go to the place where he is. But he will never come back here to me.” (2 Samuel 12:23, EASY version) David didn’t view God as evil for not granting his request, despite his earnest prayers and fasting for seven days. Instead, he “got up from the ground and washed himself. He anointed himself with oil and dressed in clean clothes. Then he went into the Lord’s house to worship him…” (2 Samuel 12:20, EASY version).
This passage reveals a man who centered his attention on God Himself, rather than fixating on what God had or hadn’t done. Approaching situations with a focus solely on God helps us gain insight into His character and His ways. It enables us to recognise that everything He does is for our benefit and that His love and mercy underpin all that originates from Him.
So, dear Christians, focus on God. Even during times when things deviate from our plans, maintain your gaze upon Him and love God for who He is.
Prayer
Lord, I thank you for being ever faithful, even in my unfaithfulness. Please, help me to focus solely on you; I realise that’s what it means to truly trust in you. Let circumstances not be the meter by which I measure your faithfulness, but let me understand that your faithfulness stems from your person and from who you are.
This message beautifully underscores God’s love and guidance in our lives. May it enrich your spiritual journey. Feel free to share your reflections below. For additional resources to nurture your spiritual growth, click here.
May your day be blessed with abundance!
