February 09th, 2022

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​Further, David was greatly distressed because the people spoke of stoning him, for all of them were embittered, each man for his sons and daughters. But David felt strengthened and encouraged in the Lord his God. (1Samuel 30:6)

Negative self-talk is the enemy to humility and self-compassion and can hinder our submitting ourselves to God for direction and guidance. As David was faced with an overwhelming challenge he became “greatly distressed,” from the messages he was hearing from his people. They were angry, bitter and talked about stoning him.

Had David internalized the negative messages he was receiving from those around him his response would have been different. Instead he humbled himself before God which was his first line of defense. In doing so, he was able to tap into self-compassion, change the way he saw himself in that moment and have a positive internal response to the negative messaging. His response:  “David felt strengthened and encouraged in the Lord his God.”

When we are overwhelmed by emotions and feelings, we should seek God first. In response to his emotional state, “David said to Abiathar the priest, Ahimelech’s son, “Please bring me the ephod.” (v. 7) So Abiathar brought him the ephod. David inquired of the Lord, saying, “Shall I pursue this band [of raiders]? Will I overtake them?” And He answered him, “Pursue, for you will certainly overtake them, and you will certainly rescue [the captives].” (v. 8)

James Wilholt takes about the importance of Christian self-compassion. He writes, The gospel calls us to be people who “clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience” (Col 3:12, NIV). And that stance of compassion and kindness should be directed both inward (self-compassion) and outward (compassion). Self-compassion is expressing the same kind of concern for our own hurt and pain as we would extend to someone else going through similar circumstances.

David’s own expression of self-compassion put him in a position to have compassion for his people. He could have acted out and got into his feelings but humility and compassion will stop you from going there every time.

True compassion releases us from ourselves and ushers in the will of God and His order. David (1) humbled himself, (2) showed self compassion before God and (3) sought His direction.

Encourage Yourself!

GiGi❤️

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