The Relay

David and his men leave Achish on the battlefront and head back to their homes in Philistine territory. When they arrive, they find that the Amalekites - realizing the Philistines were off fighting the Israelites - have attacked, burned the place to the ground, and taken captive all of the men, women and children. David's men were so distraught they talked of stoning him - obviously blaming him that they were not there to protect their families. The Word says David "found strength in the Lord his God." David asks God whether he should pursue this army, and whether they would be successful. God affirms his plans and David and 600 of his men set out after the Amalekites. Their pursuit is so intense and tireless that part way through 200 of the men stay back while the other 400 continue. The continuing group meets up to the Amalekites, completely defeats them and are reunited with their families as God had kept everyone safe. When the fighting men reach the 200 who were left behind, some of the group do not want to share the plunder with those who did not go to battle. David wisely quiets the conflict by stating that all will share in the victory - those who were strong enough to go on and those who had to stay behind. I love this...David's heart beats for those who cannot stand for themselves. It's as though David never forgets his humble beginnings - the shepherd boy often forgotten and viewed as weak. David has found his strength in the Lord...and not just "the Lord" as some out there, high up, God with no personal contact but "the Lord HIS God." I pray for the conviction of David to love the hurting, remember my own weak moments, and run for those who need a rest. I pray for this strength to come from my God; my own encounter with the One who knows me best and still loves me most.