2 Samuel 5:17-19 ESV
When the Philistines heard that David had been anointed king over Israel, all the Philistines went up to search for David. But David heard of it and went down to the stronghold. Now the Philistines had come and spread out in the Valley of Rephaim. And David inquired of the Lord, “Shall I go up against the Philistines? Will you give them into my hand?” And the Lord said to David, “Go up, for I will certainly give the Philistines into your hand.”

Have you ever stepped into something good—only to be hit with a problem you didn’t expect? Maybe you finally made progress in your marriage, your career, or your faith, and right after that, life hit back harder. It’s confusing and frustrating. You wonder, “Why now?”

David knew that feeling. Right after he was anointed king of Israel—a huge spiritual and personal victory—the Philistines rose up to attack him. His breakthrough didn’t bring peace; it brought pressure. But instead of panicking or rushing into action, David went to God first.

That’s wisdom. David had the experience, the army, and the authority to act. But instead of relying on those things, he humbled himself and asked God what to do. He didn’t assume—he inquired.
Scholars have pointed out that David didn’t rush into battle – but instead patiently reached out to God. It wasn’t that he was slow to respond to the enemy—it was that he was quick to connect to God. David’s life shows us that when God promotes and elevates, the enemy often provokes and intimidates. How you respond determines whether you walk in victory or in stress. David chose prayer over panic.
Romans 8:26 ESV
Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words.

In my own life, I haven’t always responded like David. There have been times I’ve let distractions pull my attention away from God when I needed Him most. I’ve let pride tell me, “You’ve got this,” instead of asking God for help. Fear and frustration have driven me to react instead of wait. But I’ve learned—sometimes the hard way—that rushing ahead without God’s guidance leads to avoidable mistakes and unnecessary stress.

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 ESV
Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

David’s example reminds me that the first and best thing I can do is stop and ask, “Lord, what should I do?” That single question changes everything.

Reflection Questions:

When I face resistance or challenges, do I turn to God first—or try to fix things on my own?
What would it look like to make prayer my first response instead of my last resort?

Respond to God’s Word:

Take 5 minutes today to sit quietly and ask God: “What would You have me do in this situation?” Don’t rush it. Just listen. Write down anything that comes to your heart.
Prayer:

Lord, help me to seek You first in every battle I face. I confess the times I’ve rushed ahead in fear, pride, or frustration. Teach me to pause before I plan, to pray before I act, and to lean on Your wisdom above my own. Like David, help me build a lifestyle of faith and trust in You. Amen.