As soon as you hear the sound of marching in the tops of the balsam trees, move out to battle. (1 Chronicles 14:13).
The Philistines are attacking. David wants to know how to respond. His first inquiry of God reveals that He is to attack the Philistines straight away. God will give him victory. David follows the instruction of God and gains victory. Shortly after, the Philistines are mounting another attack. David inquires again, "So David inquired of God again, and God answered him, "Do not go straight up, but circle around them and attack them in front of the balsam trees."
This is a most interesting thing that David does. Consider that David is a well-trained warrior. He is a strategist. Yet, we find that David's dependence upon God to direct his efforts is very great. In fact, after he wins the first battle he goes right back to inquire again. This is the most important lesson we can learn from this story. God tells David to attack, but only after he hears the marching in the balsam trees.
How many times have you or I operated in the marketplace based only upon our skill and ability without seeking to know the details of the will of God in the matter? David could have simply assumed since he won the last battle, surely God would automatically give him victory the same way. No. David had learned that communicating with the living God is the only sure way of victory. His skill was not enough. He had to have the blessing of God.
How many times have we worked in our business life the same way each time only because it was the way we did it last time. What if God has a better way for you? What if God has a different plan than ours? "So David inquired of God..." These are the important words that we are to learn from. We must be in such relationship with God that we are constantly inquiring of His mind on the matter. When we do this we can expect the same results that David achieved...success in our endeavor and recognition by God.
"So David's fame spread throughout every land, and the LORD made all the nations fear him." This is the reward of obedience to God. We don't have to build a name for ourselves. God will see to it that you are honored for your obedience. He wants to make known those servants who are willing to obey Him at all costs.
