Leaving everything behind and running for your life as David had to do would be extremely difficult. I am trying to imagine… leaving, without notice, the people in my life that I love and care for, such as family and friends, and to possibly never see them again…leaving my home, my job… maybe leaving behind plans and dreams. For me, this is almost impossible to imagine! There’s one thing for sure: I cannot imagine going through something like this without God.
David knew God was with him. He also knew he would be going through some tough times.
In Matthew 5:10, the Lord says, “Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of God.” David was being heavily persecuted during this time, but through his trust in Jesus, he was able to persevere.
If I am truly to live as Christ wants me to live, then I can also expect to be persecuted and to suffer throughout some time in my life here on earth. It may not be as extreme as David’s suffering. Then again, it may be, but suffering nonetheless. I know because God’s Word says so: in 2 Timothy 3:12, it is declared, “Yes, and all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution.”
It will always be easier to live the way of the world. That is, do what I want when I want.
However, life is not fully lived unless it is challenging, and one big challenge is living daily for God. I need to remind myself daily of this challenge, and find comfort in knowing that when I live fully for Him, I am receiving the Lord’s blessing. No life challenges equal boredom.
Excerpt from book "From a Boy to a Godly Man: A Boy's Bible Study of David." by Katy & Chris Foster. 2014