BEHAVE YOURSELF WISELY

 

Monday, September 4, 2023

 

BEHAVE YOURSELF WISELY

 

1 Sam 18:11-15

11 And Saul cast the javelin; for he said, I will smite David even to the wall with it. And David avoided out of his presence twice.

12 And Saul was afraid of David, because the LORD was with him, and was departed from Saul.

13 Therefore Saul removed him from him, and made him his captain over a thousand; and he went out and came in before the people.

14 And David behaved himself wisely in all his ways; and the LORD was with him.

15 Wherefore when Saul saw that he behaved himself very wisely, he was afraid of him. KJV

 

          When the entire system seems askew, when you can not discern who is friend and who is foe, when something is not quite right, behave yourself wisely. David, the war hero had become, in Saul’s opinion, David the threat. But what does it mean to behave wisely?

 

          The entire phrase, “behaved himself wisely,” is only one word in the original. It is the word sakal (saw-kal’) and it means a variety of similar things. It may be wiser to keep secrets or to learn them rather than being quite so open. It means to use caution and to act intelligently. All these things, and some that I have not listed, should come to mind. Satan, and those who serve him intentionally or otherwise, are subtle and shrewd. We must respond likewise.

 

Prov 28:14-16

14 Happy is the man that feareth alway: but he that hardeneth his heart shall fall into mischief.

15 As a roaring lion, and a ranging bear; so is a wicked ruler over the poor people.

16 The prince that wanteth [or lacks] understanding is also a great oppressor: but he that hateth covetousness shall prolong his days. KJV

 

          Sadly, we live in a dangerous time for peaceful souls. Wisdom, caution, and preparedness is the need now. We are forced to be what we would rather not be. Therefore, behave yourself wisely. David had one Friend. The Lord was with him.

 

Ps 56:4

9 When I cry unto thee, then shall mine enemies turn back: this I know; for God is for me.

 

Dear Lord, you are my confidence and my confidant. My deepest secrets are safe with you. Teach me to behave myself wisely in a world where things are not as they seem. AMEN