Devotions from Israel – 1 Samuel 24

by | Sep 2, 2021 | Context and Culture of the Bible, Devotionals from Israel, Historical Geography, Israel Tour | 0 comments

Engedi water falls

An encouraging word from 1 Samuel 24

 

Biblical Israel Ministries & Tours (BIMT) is all about teaching the Bible in the context of the land of Israel and other biblical countries (Jordan, Egypt, Turkey, Greece, and Italy). We teach the historical geography of the Bible as well as archaeology, customs and culture of the land. We aim to make connections between  the Bible and the land in all that we do.

This is another session in the new series of teaching videos called “Devotions from Israel.” This brief five-minute devotional comes from 1 Samuel 24. The setting for this narrative is En Gedi and the Judean Desert.

 

About the Devotional

 
 
En Gedi is a favorite destination for many. It serves still today as an oasis in the Judean Desert. Specifically located above the western shoreline of the Dead Sea, the area typically sees 100+ degree days in the summer here. The dry heat feels like an oven. Yet, the waterfalls and quiet pools provides refreshment.
 
The presence of water here was precisely why both David and King Saul were here. Since David killed Goliath (1 Samuel 17), over the next few chapters in 1 Samuel (18-23), King Saul is pursuing David. He wants to kill this young shepherd boy.
 
The chase took place through the Shephelah (lowlands), the southern Hill Country of Judah, and the Judean Desert. Now in 1 Samuel 24, an encounter is recorded between David and Saul. The initial encounter took place, of all places, in a cave. David spared Saul’s life because of his respect for God and His anointed king.
 
Throughout the time, David sought God as his helper. The words of Psalm 54 preserve David’s perspective through this difficult time:
 
“Save me, O God, by your name; vindicate me by your might. Hear my prayer, O God; listen to the words of my mouth. Arrogant foes are attacking me; ruthless people are trying to kill me—people without regard for God. Surely God is my help; the Lord is the one who sustains me.”

“Trusting in God as our helper is the key to surviving the challenges of life. Like David, keeping our eyes focused on God’s call and purpose of our life keeps us God-centered.”

Engedi water falls
Following this encounter, David returned to the “stronghold” (most likely Masada). He returned here while trusting in God’s direction.
 
The encouraging word to be found in this narrative is that despite life being difficult, we can turn to God as our helper. Focusing on Him keeps us faithful to His call and purpose of our life. David knew that God already called him to be the next king of Israel. David knew God had a plan for his life, and he remained true to this high calling.
 
When it seems as though the challenges of life pursue us, we can stay strong like David. God not only protected David, but He also guarded his heart from a spirit of revenge.
 
Invite God to be your helper today!
 
I hope you enjoy this video below. These five minute devotionals are produced on a regular basis. As you are encouraged by the video, please consider sharing this post with others for their encouragement as well.
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