2 Samuel 5:22-23 ESV
And the Philistines came up yet again and spread out in the Valley of Rephaim. And when David inquired of the Lord, he said, “You shall not go up; go around to their rear, and come against them opposite the balsam trees.

Have you ever had a victory in life—only to face the same challenge again not long after? It’s frustrating. You think, “Didn’t I already fight this battle?” It’s tempting to rely on what worked last time, to skip prayer, and to go with experience. But that’s not what David did.

Even after a clear victory, when the enemy returned, David didn’t rush into action. He went back to God—again. He didn’t say, “I know what to do.” He said, “Lord, what should I do now?” That humility is powerful.

Hebrews 4:16 ESV
Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.

I’ve read in the past that David’s second inquiry shows a rhythm and trend in his life where he deeply depended on God, not just a formula for success. He wasn’t treating prayer like a one-time emergency life line—he had a relationship with the Lord. He knew that yesterday’s word wasn’t enough for today’s decision. He needed fresh guidance.

I’ve been guilty of getting too confident after a win. Sometimes after preaching a great sermon or navigating a family situation well, I’ve assumed I could just do the same thing next time. But I’ve learned that pride can whisper, “You’ve got this,” when I really need to be saying, “God, what do You want now?” Distractions pull me into routine. Frustration says, “Just do what worked before.” But God isn’t looking for robotic obedience—He’s looking for a heart that seeks Him daily.

Psalm 145:18 ESV
The Lord is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth.

David models that beautifully. He kept asking. And God kept answering.

John 5:14 ESV
Afterward Jesus found him in the temple and said to him, “See, you are well! Sin no more, that nothing worse may happen to you.”

Hebrews 4:16 encourages us to come boldly to the throne of grace, again and again. 1 John 5:14 reminds us that when we ask according to God’s will, He hears us. And Psalm 145:18 says He is near to all who call on Him in truth. God is not tired of hearing our prayers—He delights in our dependence.

Reflection Questions:

Do I seek God only when I’m in trouble, or do I seek Him daily—even after success?
Am I relying on past experiences, or am I asking God for new wisdom?

Respond to God’s Word:

Think about a recent win or breakthrough in your life. Ask God, “What’s next?” Take a moment to submit even your victories to His direction, and ask for fresh wisdom moving forward.

Prayer:

Lord, thank You for being patient with me when I lean on experience instead of You. Forgive me for treating success as a reason to skip prayer. Keep my heart humble and teachable. Help me return to You—not just in difficulty, but in every step of my journey. Speak again, and I will listen. Amen.