Main Thought
Moments of distress are unavoidable throughout our lives. We can’t determine when those things happen, how they happen, or how long they last. But we can determine our response! How does God want to respond to distress? We can start by declaring the Word of God. Declaring the Word reminds us of God’s promises and transforms our fear into faith. Yet we shouldn’t be naive; we need to beware of the Enemy’s forces. Opposition is unavoidable when we’re headed in the right direction. Striving to draw near to God is one of the greatest things we can do to ensure we’re heading the right way. As we continue, we should declare God’s Word and praises again. Our spirits need the reminder, and God deserves the praise. Finally, we can prepare for breakthrough in wisdom and faith as we persistently pursue God. Distress matters less when we press into God.
Main Passages
6 David was greatly distressed because the men were talking of stoning him; each one was bitter in spirit because of his sons and daughters. But David found strength in the Lord his God. 7 Then David said to Abiathar the priest, the son of Ahimelek, “Bring me the ephod.” Abiathar brought it to him, 8 and David inquired of the Lord, “Shall I pursue this raiding party? Will I overtake them?” “Pursue them,” he answered. “You will certainly overtake them and succeed in the rescue.”
- 1 Samuel 30:6-8
The Lord is my light and my salvation; Whom shall I fear? The Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid? 2 When the wicked came against me to eat up my flesh, my enemies and foes, they stumbled and fell. 3 Though an army may encamp against me, my heart shall not fear; though war may rise against me, in this I will be confident. 4 One thing I have desired of the Lord, that will I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the Lord, and to inquire in His temple.
- Psalm 27:1-4
5 For in the time of trouble He shall hide me in His pavilion; in the secret place of His tabernacle He shall hide me; He shall set me high upon a rock. 6 And now my head shall be lifted up above my enemies all around me; therefore I will offer sacrifices of joy in His tabernacle; I will sing, yes, I will sing praises to the Lord. 7 Hear, O Lord, when I cry with my voice! Have mercy also upon me, and answer me. 8 When You said, “Seek My face,” my heart said to You, “Your face, Lord, I will seek.”
- Psalm 27:5-8
Discussion Questions
What stands out to you in the Main Thought and Passages above?
Are you facing any sort of distress? If so, what?
Which one of the five underlined words or phrases can you apply in response to the distress you’re facing?