Go to God: How David’s Faith Can Teach Us to Trust God in Every Battle
- Joon Tavarez
- Apr 19
- 5 min read
Updated: Apr 22
Life has no shortage of battles—whether you're navigating a stressful season in your family, facing career decisions, dealing with unexpected setbacks, or wrestling with spiritual warfare. The big question is: Where do you go when trouble comes?
In 2 Samuel 5:17–25, David gives us a timeless example of what it looks like to go to God first, seek His guidance before making decisions, and walk in bold obedience. His pattern of prayer and trust offers us a spiritual roadmap for every situation we face.
Let’s dive into four key principles drawn from David’s life that can lead us to greater breakthrough, clarity, and faith.
Go to God: How David’s Faith Can Teach Us to Trust God in Every Battle
1. Go to God First, Not Last
“When the Philistines heard that David had been anointed king over Israel, they went up in full force to search for him, but David heard about it and went down to the stronghold.” — 2 Samuel 5:17
David had just been crowned king. This was his long-awaited moment of victory! But almost immediately, the enemy moved against him. Isn’t that often how life works? Just as you're stepping into something good, opposition arises.
David's response is critical: he didn’t panic, strategize, or gather his army first—he went to the stronghold. That “stronghold” was both a physical place of protection and a spiritual posture of prayer.
In today’s world, we often run to friends, the internet, or our own plans before we seek God. But the example of David reminds us: The first place we should go is into the presence of God.
If we trust God with our Salvation, why wouldn't we trust Him with the hard times in life?
When we turn to God first, we position ourselves to receive His wisdom, peace, and direction.
2. Ask God Before You Act
“So David inquired of the Lord, ‘Shall I go and attack the Philistines? Will you deliver them into my hands?’” — 2 Samuel 5:19
David was a skilled warrior. He could’ve relied on experience. But instead, he paused to ask God what to do.
How often do we charge into decisions, even good ones, without asking God first? Whether it’s taking a new job, starting a ministry, or confronting a difficult relationship, we need the wisdom of heaven, not just the logic of earth.
The Bible says in James 1:5:“If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.”
When David prayed, God answered with clear direction and promise. That’s the power of a listening heart—God not only responds, He prepares us for victory.
“Prayer is the slender nerve that moves the muscle of omnipotence.” — Charles Spurgeon
Seeking God before we act is a spiritual discipline that opens the door to divine guidance.
3. Obey God Completely, Even When It Doesn’t Make Sense
After God answered David’s prayer, David attacked the Philistines and defeated them. But the enemy wasn’t done. They came back a second time. Once again, David went to God and asked what to do. This time, God gave David a completely different strategy:
“Do not go straight up, but circle around behind them and attack them in front of the poplar trees.” — 2 Samuel 5:23
Why didn’t God just say “Do the same thing again”? Because God’s guidance is not formulaic—it’s relational. He wants us to seek Him daily, not rely on yesterday’s instructions.
David obeyed, even though the plan was different. And it led to an even greater breakthrough.
In our lives, obedience may sometimes mean doing something unfamiliar or uncomfortable—waiting longer, saying “no” to a seemingly good opportunity, or stepping out when we feel uncertain. But God honors obedience with victory.
“Don't ever hesitate to take to [God] whatever is on your heart. He already knows it anyway, but He doesn't want you to bear its pain or celebrate its joy alone.” — Billy Graham
4. Listen for the Sound of God's Movement
One of the most remarkable parts of this story is in verse 24:
“As soon as you hear the sound of marching in the tops of the poplar trees, move quickly, because that will mean the Lord has gone out in front of you…”
This detail is rich with meaning. The “sound of marching” wasn’t from David’s troops—it was from God’s heavenly army moving ahead of them. David had to be still enough, quiet enough, and tuned in enough to hear that subtle confirmation from the Lord.
Sometimes, the confirmation of God’s will doesn’t come in loud thunder—it comes in a gentle prompting, a deep peace, or a whispered reminder from Scripture. Are we listening?
When we wait for God’s timing and move only when He says move, we walk in sync with His Spirit. And that’s where breakthrough lives.
Why This Matters for You and Your Family
David’s pattern—go to God, ask first, obey fully, listen carefully—isn’t just a story for the past. It’s a model for how to seek God’s guidance in our lives today.
Whether you’re a parent trying to raise your kids in a godly home, a student choosing your future, or a believer battling anxiety, the principles in this passage are a lifeline.
Here’s how you can apply them today:
Start your day in the stronghold. Before the emails and to-do lists, go to God in prayer and the Word.
Ask specific questions. Don’t just say, “Lord, bless my day.” Ask: “What do You want me to do with this decision? How should I handle this conflict?”
Obey what He shows you. Even if it’s uncomfortable or doesn’t make logical sense, obedience brings blessing.
Wait for His timing. Listen for the “sound of marching.” Don’t get ahead of Him.
Final Thoughts: Your Breakthrough Begins with Seeking God
In a world full of noise and pressure, David’s story in 2 Samuel 5:17–25 reminds us of a foundational truth: Breakthrough doesn’t come from our strength. It comes from our surrender.
When we go to God first, seek His counsel, obey His voice, and wait for His movement, we experience victories that could never come by human effort alone.
Your next breakthrough may not depend on your hustle—it may depend on your humble prayer.
Go to God: How David’s Faith Can Teach Us to Trust God in Every BattleSo the question is: Will you go to God first?
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