1 Chronicles 14:15

“As soon as you hear the sound of marching in the tops of the balsam trees, move out to battle, because that will mean God has gone out in front of you to strike the Philistine army.”

Tradition! Tradition! I recall hearing those words being sung by Tevya in song from the movie, “Fiddler On the Roof.” Before we become too critical, it is well to consider how often we rely on tradition rather than prayerful guidance to determine our course of action. Think of the number of times we have said or heard it said; “We have always done it that way before!”

Just prior to today’s Scripture, David had inquired of the Lord about going to battle against the Philistines. In response to that question the Lord told David to go. The Philistines were defeated because the Lord had gone before them.

In this passage, the answer was not the same as before. Now the Lord instructed Moses to not proceed directly against this new armed threat, but to circle around behind and wait for the sound of marching in the balsam trees. David obeyed and God brought about a great victory.

God does not use the same methods time after time to do His will. He wants us to inquire of Him each and every time there is a decision to be made. Why? It is to demonstrate our total reliance on Him so that He will receive the credit.

In these perilous times we need to faithfully inquire of the Lord. 2 Chronicles 7:14 should always be in our heart: “If My people, who are called by My name, will humble themselves and pray and seek My face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land.”

Do not presume to know how God works or what His plans are for your life. Instead go to Him in prayer and stay there until you hear from heaven. Then obey!

Blessings dear hearts. Draw near to God today, trust Him completely and be a blessing!

– – – Pastor Cecil

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