Step one: Interpret your opportunity in light of God’s character.

1 Samuel 24:3 At the place where the road passes some sheepfolds, Saul went into a cave to relieve himself. But as it happened, David and his men were hiding farther back in that very cave! 4 “Now’s your opportunity!” David’s men whispered to him.

From a human perspective this is a moment that David and his men could have only dreamed. Here is the enemy alone and vulnerable. “Now’s your opportunity” is the chant being said by David’s men. They are all whispering for David to put an end to Saul’s life. Now is the opportunity. The condition could not be more favorable.
David moves toward Saul, but somewhere between the whisper of his men and his approach to Saul, someone else whispers to David’s heart. The Bible says that David feels guilty for thinking of taking Saul’s life and David realizes this is an opportunity to do something different. This is an opportunity to show grace, mercy, and an opportunity to honor someone who is persecuting you.

To move toward the greatest things that God has for us we must interpret our opportunities in light of God’s heart. Have you ever had what you want to do and what you need to do be at odds?
When that happens, realize that now is your opportunity to move towards greater things by interpreting your opportunity in light of God’s character. The Bible says this about David—He was a man after God’s own heart. It is exemplified in this passage because if David had been a man after a throne he would have killed Saul. However, since he was after God’s heart He spared Him.

Opportunities reveal what you are really seeking. Are you seeking the heart of God or something lessor? Don’t just settle for trying to get ahead. Strive to set yourself apart by being a person that interprets your opportunities in the light of God’s word. Don’t get so focused on seeking your own throne that you sacrifice your heart. Acquiring the right thing the wrong way will never bring the satisfaction that you long for. Interpret each opportunity in light of God’s character. That is the first step towards God’s best in your life.

Today’s Challenge: Don’t just look at opportunities in light of your own desires, abilities, and discernment. Ask God to help you interpret your opportunities in light of His heart and His desire for you. God has great things for your life and He will deliver them to you as you respond correctly to the opportunities He places in your life.

Today’s devotion is an excerpt from a recent message at CFA. To listen to the message in its entirety go to www.pastorgregsanders.com click on the message “Now is Your Opportunity.”