To Inquire Or Not To Inquire
BRD REFLECTION 2025
1 Chronicles 14; 15 and Psalm 72 (NIV)
(Philip Oh from BRD Core Team)
READ:
My readings of 1 Chronicles 14 and 15 remind me of David’s defeat of the Philistines and his instructions on bringing the Ark to Jerusalem from Obed-Edom’s house. Both chapters set the context, but these verses stood out:
• 15:13b – “We did not inquire of him about how to do it in the prescribed way.”
• 14:10 – David inquired of God: “Shall I attack the Philistines?” The Lord answered, “Go, I will deliver them into your hands.”
• 14:14 – David inquired of God again, and God answered, “Do not go directly; circle around and attack in front of the poplar trees.”
OBSERVE:
David had a close relationship with God, and he was always asking for guidance and inquiring of God, receiving direct and clear instructions and answers in both verses 10 and 14.
Chapter 15 details how the Israelites were to carry the Ark into Jerusalem in the prescribed way, with musicians and singing, reminding Israel of their previous mistake when they didn’t follow instructions and did not inquire of God.
APPLY:
I realize I don’t always seek God’s guidance. Often, I only do so when facing major issues or when I’m stuck in a problem. Unlike David, I am not familiar with His voice because I do not inquire of Him frequently enough. As a result, I sometimes struggle to discern if what I hear is God’s voice or my own thoughts.
David’s deep connection with God shows he loved and pursued God’s will wholeheartedly. He was also willing to ask for forgiveness when he committed terrible sins and was prepared to accept the consequences of his sins, knowing that his Father in Heaven loved him. He would worship our Lord through song and also complain bitterly about his circumstances. He had a close relationship with God which I would love to have. He showed that he knew the heart of his Father and was described in 1 Samuel 13:14 as “a man after God’s own heart”.
DO:
I will:
- continue to strengthen my relationship with God, emulating what David’s relationship with Him was like;
- inquire of God, on things big and small, knowing that He places great importance in having an everyday relationship with me;
- always approach God with a heart of thanksgiving and gratefulness;
- read His Word daily in an unhurried fashion,praying constantly and consistently, listening for His voice and lingering in His presence.
PRAY:
Dear Abba Father, thank You for giving us David as an example to emulate. Please be kind to me as I listen to You in my daily life and help me to know You better as I continue to journey through my life here on earth. In Jesus’ name I ask. Amen!
