Camp by the Spring

Daily Reading: 1 Samuel 29

Scripture Focus: Now the Philistines had gathered all their forces at Aphek. And the Israelites were encamped by the spring that is in Jezreel. (1 Samuel 29.1)

Devotional Thought: 1 Samuel 29, tells the story of David's brief alliance with the Philistine, Achish. God wasn't a part of that deal and helped David break it. (God's grace is amazing!) What struck me from this chapter, however, is a phrase we find in verse 1: "The Israelites were encamped by the spring."

The Philistines were a large and imposing military force. Israel's army paled in comparison. This was the military expedition that would eventually claim the life of Saul and his sons. Yet, here in the face of impossible odds, we find the Israelites encamped by the spring. The spring would provide water for the battle-weary army.

When we are battle-weary, we too can camp by the Spring! Jesus gives us living water when we are...

· Trapped in the hopelessness of sin. Jesus offered living water to a woman whose life had spiraled out of control (John 4). At the well of Samaria, he gave her hope for a new life.

· Overwhelmed by our circumstances. I remember a period in my life when I could see nothing but my "opposition." Time and again, I found myself drinking from the Spring himself!

· Convinced we are all alone. The Apostle John was exiled to Patmos. Isolated from friends and family, he decided to worship in the Spirit. He heard the voice of his Master and realized he was not alone.

Camp by the Spring!

Prayer: Lord, you are the Spring of Living Water. When the enemy comes against me, I will not be overwhelmed for I am camped by the Spring! Amen.

Psalm of the Day: Psalm 85.1-7

1 Lord, you were favorable to your land; you restored the fortunes of Jacob. 2 You forgave the iniquity of your people; you covered all their sin. Selah 3 You withdrew all your wrath; you turned from your hot anger.

4 Restore us again, O God of our salvation, and put away your indignation toward us! 5 Will you be angry with us forever? Will you prolong your anger to all generations? 6 Will you not revive us again, that your people may rejoice in you? 7 Show us your steadfast love, O Lord, and grant us your salvation.