The God Who Sets Things Straight

“Now afterward David arose and went out of the cave and called after Saul, saying, ‘My lord the king!’ And when Saul looked behind him, David bowed with his face to the ground and prostrated himself. David said to Saul, ‘Why do you listen to the words of men, saying, “Behold, David seeks to harm you”? Behold, this day your eyes have seen that the LORD had given you today into my hand in the cave, and some said to kill you, but my eye had pity on you; and I said, “I will not stretch out my hand against my lord, for he is the LORD'S anointed.” Now, my father, see! Indeed, see the edge of your robe in my hand! For in that I cut off the edge of your robe and did not kill you, know and perceive that there is no evil or rebellion in my hands, and I have not sinned against you, though you are lying in wait for my life to take it. May the LORD judge between you and me, and may the LORD avenge me on you; but my hand shall not be against you. As the proverb of the ancients says, “Out of the wicked comes forth wickedness;” but my hand shall not be against you. After whom has the king of Israel come out? Whom are you pursuing? A dead dog, a single flea? The LORD therefore be judge and decide between you and me; and may He see and plead my cause and deliver me from your hand.’” 1 Samuel 24:8-15

Who was God in David’s life? The God who sets things straight! David was no stranger to injustice. He had been anointed by the prophet Samuel (just as Saul, earlier) to be King over Israel. Yet, David found himself a hunted man. Saul driven by jealousy, sought to kill David.

On two occasions David had opportunity to take Saul’s life, to vindicate himself. Though his men encouraged him to do so, David would not. Instead of killing Saul, David cut off a corner of his garment on one occasion, and took his spear on another. As you read 1 Samuel 24:8-15, you begin to comprehend the faith David had in God - as the One Who sets things straight.

David could well have written this Psalm on such an occasion:
“Rest in the Lord and wait patiently for Him; Do not fret because of him who prospers in his way, Because of the man who carries out wicked schemes....For evildoers will be cut off, But those who wait for the Lord, they will inherit the land.” Psalm 37:7, 9

What injustice have you suffered? Did you invest the hours and effort to make the project a success - but the other person took the credit and got the promotion? Trust God as the One Who sets things straight. Verbally reaffirm your faith in Him right now.