“In the course of time, David inquired of the Lord. ‘Shall I go up to one of the towns of Judah?’ he asked. The Lord said, ‘Go up.’ David asked, ‘Where shall I go?’ ‘To Hebron,’ the Lord answered.”
- 2 Samuel 2:1-2 -

This passage opens ‘In the course of time …’ How hard it is, when we desire God’s plans and next steps, to face the frustration of preparation and the fullness of time. David’s patience shows his heart and obedience. He asks God, ‘Shall I go?’ I am sure that, over the waiting period, he would often have prayed, ‘Lord, what now?’ Eventually the Lord says, ‘Go.’ Again, when many would have seen ‘Go up’ as enough, David once more seeks the direction of God: ‘Where shall I go?’ (v 1).

This is a challenge to us: do we seek God’s direction before we set out? David is sent to Hebron and he goes; are there times when we know God is sending us to pray, speak, or act for him but we close our hearts, allowing the flesh to quench the Spirit? Hebron was important as the resting place of Abraham. This was a special place for the people of God, as they sought after God’s heart, through trials and triumphs. This was home. David and his men were no longer fugitives. His loyal men, too, had suffered, but now they would reign with him. Holding unswervingly to God’s way is often hard. Be encouraged – he is faithful.

Apply: What are your plans for today? Do they coincide with God’s? Have you asked him, as ‘Lord’, for the day’s directions, warnings, and promises: ‘Where shall I go, Lord?’

Prayer: Merciful Father, keep open the ears of my spirit to hear your voice, but keep me deaf to the voices that call me away from you.

(A Summary from Encounter with God)