David was chosen by God, anointed by Samuel in front of his family to be the King of Israel. Israel was a large prosperous nation with 12 tribes. I’m sure when anointed, David had visions of living well in the palace with his wife and children, commanding an army of thousands.
It seemed as if he were on his way to fulfilling the prophetic word spoken over him. He was living in the palace, commanding an army, honored by many. They even sang songs about him.
But just like that, his dream turned into a nightmare. For no fault of his own, he had to flee from the palace because the king wanted to kill him. He then found himself living in a cave, leading a rag tag army of men who were in distress, in debt, and discontented. Not exactly what he had imagined.
What can we learn from David’s story.
1. There is often cave dwelling on the path to the palace. Lessons of humility, faith, trust are often learned in caves not palaces.
2. We craft our gifts in obscurity. David was destined to be the greatest king in the history of Israel but before he led a great nation, he led 400 misfits well.
3. Do not despise small beginnings. Whatever God has given you to do at this moment, do it well. Be faithful in the little things.
4. Stay encouraged while in the cave. Avoid jealousy of palace dwellers. Jonathan came to David and reminded him of the promise. But Jonathan went home to the palace while David remained in cave. David received the encouragement of his friend without harboring resentment.
5. Have faith that your palace dwelling days are coming. God is faithful. Your cave dwelling days are coming to an end on this side of heaven. You will see the fulfillment of the promise. Is anything impossible for God? Is His arm too short? He is not a man that He should lie. So if he promised, it will come to pass. Get ready for palace dwelling.
“David left Gath and escaped to the cave of Adullam. When his brothers and his father’s household heard about it, they went down to him there. All those who were in distress or in debt or discontented gathered around him, and he became their commander. About four hundred men were with him.”
1 Samuel 22:1-2 NIV
http://bible.com/111/1sa.22.1-2.niv