WHAT TO DO ON THE WORST DAY OF YOUR LIFE
When hearing the heartbreaking news, I thought of the worst day of David’s life (1 Samuel 30). David had experienced a rough bunch of years. He was Public Enemy #1, on the run and living in enemy territory in Ziklag. David and his six hundred mighty men were returning from a three-day journey and looking forward to spending time with their families. As they got near, they saw smoke. They picked up the pace. The Amalekites had ransacked their homes, set them on fire, looted their possessions and taken captive their wives and children and did who knows what to them. All seemed lost. What do you do on the worst day of your life?
- Weep- David and six-hundred men wept big salty tears. Grieve. Lament. Express Sorrow. One day there will be no more tears (Rev. 21:4) but for now loss, death, betrayal, divorce, job loss etc. is painful and heartbreaking.
- Watch out for bitterness- A mutiny was brewing. David’s mighty men blamed him and wanted to kill him. Bitterness can wreak havoc in a family, community, or group.
- Encourage yourself in God- David could have fought back, relied on himself, or gotten depressed. David strengthened himself in God. He remembered the promises of God and deeds of the Lord.
- Seek a word from the Lord- David wanted direction and the will of God.
- Renew strength and vision to fight for family- Everything seemed hopeless, but a fresh vision brought hope and faith. They would rise, purse their enemies, overtake them, and save their loved ones. Every loved one survived, and all their treasure was recovered. What a reunion they had. Three days later Saul was dead, and David was King.
Crisis times bring great opportunities and great dangers. Crisis often brings out the best or the worst in people. May we rise to the occasion. May we look to God first and foremost. May we get His encouragement and direction in our dark times. May we support each other more than ever before. May we find real solutions and not just play the blame game. May we too fight for our families in constructive ways for the glory of God.
Dr. Michael Sprague is the Louisiana State Chaplain with the Capitol Commission and President of Grace Adventures. Michael does life with his wonderful wife Donna and resides in Mandeville, LA. His motto is “Bet the Farm on God.” You can find more information about Michael here.
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