Seeking the Lord’s will

The Philistines once again came up through the Valley of Rephaim. Just as last time, their target was Jerusalem. Let us take a look at how David responded to this renewed threat. (1) David did not attempt to use the same strategy as he had in the previous victory. This is one of the marks of his greatness. He understood that it was not the strategy itself, but the presence of the Lord that was the true key to victory. What can you learn from David’s actions? Without the Lord’s intervention, all plans are in vain. (2) David once again inquired of the Lord. This time, an entirely different strategy was given. He was to circle around behind the enemy and launch the attack from in front of the balsam trees (baka-shrubs). (3) The timing for the attack was given as follows: “And it shall be, when you hear the sound of marching in the tops of the baka-shrubs, then you shall act promptly, for then the Lord will have gone out before you to strike the army of the Philistines.” (4) David obeyed the Lord’s command and drove the Philistines out from the hill country all the way to the coastal plain.

The sound of marching

David was able to win the second battle because he followed the Lord’s method and timing. Let us especially take note of the command: “When you hear the sound of marching in the tops of the baka-shrubs, then you shall act promptly.” (1) That sound was likely the noise made as the wind rustled through the branches of the balsam trees. (2) However, that natural sound carried spiritual significance. It was as if the sound of the army of the Lord marching could be heard. It signified that the Lord’s army were going ahead of David in battle. (3) By following that command, David advanced in battle and secured a decisive victory over the Philistines. What lesson can you learn from David’s second battle? Can you hear “the sound of the Lord’s army marching”? Or is this a time when you should wait for the Lord’s timing? Each person must discern the voice of the Lord, understand the times, and act accordingly. One thing for certain is that in order to win the Lord’s battles, we must rely on His method and His timing. Let us become those who experience great victory through the Lord.