Yes. I'm showing my age with the "Motley Crue" reference today. But I think it fits pretty well. How rediculous do these guys look in that photo? I think the picture speaks for itself. And what we see in chapter 27 is pretty embarrasing for David and his crew as well. As we discussed yesterday, David is entering another dark, low time in his life. This period could be to what David was referring in Psalm 23 when he talks about the "valley of the shadow of death". David has relegated himself to leading a motley crew of fighting men. Men who are outcasts in their own towns and villages - mercenaries for hire. I am sure this band of men were a colorful, rough sort. They were probably similar to the gangs of pirates that pillaged the high seas in colonial times. They were dangerous since most were unafraid to die. And they were led by David, a man quickly falling into despair and losing faith in God.
David opens chapter 27 with a shocking statement showing his change of heart from chapter 26. David says in his heart, "Now I shall perish someday at the hand of Saul. There is nothing better for me than to speedily escape to the land of the Philistines." How low was David's faith that he believes there is "nothing better" for him than to run into the arms of his enemies, the enemies of God, for safety and protection! Nothing better??? David! Have you forgotten who your God-Father is?? Have you forgotten what God has already done for you? Do you remember Goliath? Have you forgotten Ramah? Have you forgotten the two times God has placed Saul directly into your hands? Has not God shown you enough of His protective hand to convince you only HE can protect you??
Ok. I'm done lecturing David. Because I many times live my life in a way that shows I too forget what God can and will do in my life if I place my trust in Him. Think back for a moment over your life and just reflect on God's deliverance both in your life and the lives of people you know. Hasn't He already proven Himself over and over again? Then, why do we so quickly act as though there is nothing better for us than to dispair and feel sorry for ourselves? Why do we turn to the world and God's enemies for protection as David does here? It's because we are a stubborn people. We too often live in the flesh and not walk by the Spirit.
The end of Chapter 27 shows David and his motley crew resorting to raiding and pillaging towns and villages. I'm sure David rationalizes his actions by raiding only those people who were historical enemies of Israel. But clearly David is not consulting God. He is depending on the skill and tenacity of his rough band of mercenaries to provide sustenance. And to make matters worse, David lies to King Achish (remember him? this is the same king to whom David pretended he was crazy to avoid being killed) and tells him he raided Israeli towns. Obviously, David seeks king Achish's approval in hopes that he can find protection. By now, King Achish is convinced Saul is their common enemy and accepts David and even gives him an area in which to live.
David's sleeping with the enemy. (Hey, that also could have been a good title for this article.) Anyway, let us not be so weak in our faith to forget that only our God can deliver us. Running around aimlessly using the world's devices to find sustenance and protection will not be effective. Seeking approval from the world will not satisfy or protect us. Only God can provide and protect His children.
David was once a valiant leader of God's army. He was a killer of Giants. He was a conqueror of God's enemies. But through a lack of faith and growing despair, he became the aimless leader of a motley crew of pirates and pillagers. But the story isn't over! Keep reading! Isn't this fun?
Prayer: In my hour of despair I know You're still there. So may I keep my eyes stayed on You and never forget Your power and ability to deliver me when all seems lost!
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