Family and Friends

Reading: 1 Samuel 22; Psalm 52; Matthew 6 3 Later David went to Mizpeh in Moab, where he asked the king, “Please allow my father and mother to live here with you until I know what God is going to do for me.” 4 So David’s parents stayed in Moab with the king during the entire time David was living in his stronghold. (1 Samuel 22:3-4 NLT)

Hey Friends, here’s more thoughts about the importance of investing in relationships. When King Saul began his “David Eradication Program”, it soon became clear that not only David, but anyone even remotely involved with him, was at risk. Saul destroyed the entire city of the priests, slaughtering men, women, and children, without mercy. David needed a safe place for his aging parents. He went to the king of Moab and asked him to keep them safe “until I know what God is going to do for me.” This was a wise and natural move, because David’s father, Jesse, was the grandson of Ruth of Moab and Boaz of Bethlehem. God’s been speaking to me very consistently about my relationships. The message for me today is “Family and Friends.” On one hand, those close to us can suffer the consequences of our actions and situations, and we theirs. On the other hand, family relationships and friendships are a source of joy, belonging, and security! When Saul slaughtered the priests, David took the survivor, Abiathar, under his care. When David was at risk, his friend Jonathan, the crown prince, tried to help him. When David’s family was at risk, he went to a distant ally for help. Never abandon a friend—either yours or your father’s. Then in your time of need, you won’t have to ask your relatives for assistance. It is better to go to a neighbor than to a relative who lives far away. (Proverbs 27:10 NLT) Life Lesson: Invest time and energy in building your relationships in the everydayness of life, and they’ll be there to help when the roof falls in! Prayer:

Father, I want to live my life among family and friends as part of a warm and caring community. Please help me to cultivate strong, healthy relationships both in my family and among my friends so that when things get tough, I can help them and they can help me. Amen.