After facing the “thrill of victory” of killing Goliath, David fell into the depths of despair as a jealous King Saul viciously tracked David dow, like a fox running from hounds. All alone, David would face “the agony of defeat” as he resorted to a dark cave to save his life.

Driven to the very depths of despair, how did David react? How do you react when life throws an unexpected curveball your way? Do you retreat, or rely upon God? David retreated at first, but ultimately relied upon God to endure the agony of the cave.

David admitted his total dependence upon God; and, he did not pretend that everything would be all right. What are some hurdles you face in your life, and how have you dealt with them? It is a natural human reaction to run from our problems, but eventually we must face them to experience peace in our lives.

As R. C. Bell said, “Peace to the Christian in not the absence of troubles, but the presence of God.”