But David strengthened himself in the Lord. 1 Samuel 30:

I love this verse! It lets me know that when I find myself discouraged, depressed, sad, angry, lonely, betrayed, disappointed that there is a way to find encouragement and hope.

King David was a valiant warrior who found himself in dire straits the day he and his men returned from one of their battles. Their headquarters at Ziklag had been destroyed by fire. Their wives, sons, and daughters had been taken captive. David’s men turned against him and were ready to stone him. Great discouragement and distress overwhelmed him. Fear sought to overtake and control him. It’s evident David was at the end of his rope.

What did David do? He found what he needed in the presence and strength of the Lord His God. He inquired of God. He believed God had the answer. He did what God said.  It’s evident he had faith in the One who could deliver. He had this kind of faith because he knew his God. He acted on what he knew. He inquired, believed, obeyed.

What should we do when we’re at the end of our rope and ready to quit? Believers in Jesus go to the One who has the answers. We go to him first, not our family, friends, counselor, or pastor. God may choose to use others to help us in our struggles, but we must first go to Him. God delights to help the one who is desperate for help from the perfect Source of strength.

I love this quote from Oswald Chambers: To those who have had no agony Jesus says I have nothing for you; stand on your own feet, square your own shoulders. I have come for the man who knows he has a bigger handful than he can cope with; who knows there are forces he cannot touch. I will do everything for him if he will let me. Only let a man grant he needs it. I will do it for Him.

Never forget where to go first when there’s desperation at the end of your rope.