"Obedience Brings Growth, Safety and Direction from God" OR

"Dwelling in Praise & Worship in the 'Forest of Hareth'"

4-19-13

S. 1 Samuel 22:5 Then the prophet Gad (a band, a troop; attack, invade, overcome)said to David (The Beloved/Believer), Do not remain in the stronghold  (This was in "Moab" which means: "Of his father" a descendant of Lot, a dweller of Sodom) ("stronghold"=a net; from: to lie alongside (that is, in wait); by implication to catch an animal figuratively men); leave, and get into the land of Judah (PRAISE & WORHSIP. So David left and went into the forest (the verdure/thick vegetation or growth) of Hareth ('to engrave/impress deeply; to form by incision).

S.   1 Samuel 22:5 Then the prophet Gad said to David, Do not remain in the stronghold; leave, and get into the land of Judah. So David left and went into the forest of Hareth.

 

"FOREST OF HARETH"=thick growth that has been engraved/impressed deeply

O.   After David left his parents in a safe place, the prophet Gad came to him with a warning and instructions from God; David, the 'Beloved', must leave the stronghold and the trap of Moab ("Of his father" a descendant of Lot, a dweller of Sodom). Because of God's warning that came with directions, David went to the forest of Hareth in the land of Judah to find safety; his reward of an extended life. ('Honor your father and your mother, as the LORD your God commanded you, that your days may be long,...' Deut. 5:16)

 

A.   When I obey God's commandments/instructions as David did (i.e. "Honor your parents") then God gives me a safe place to dwell, spiritual growth and peace of mind. I need to keep my spiritual ear close to God's lips and my mind/heart set on obedience in times of trouble or confusion. (ESPECIALLY places of fear or worry!) Not only will He warn me, but He'll give me the instructions I need to find peace, safety and NEW SPIRITUAL GROWTH!

P.   Father, You amaze me! I love the way You keep watch over me. Help my ear to always be close to Your lips so that I may hear every personal warning and instruction for my life. Thank You for the reward/growth at the end of each obedient act. May I always turn that back into praise to You.