Then David said to Abiathar: "That day, when Doeg the Edomite was there, I knew he would be sure to tell Saul. I am responsible for the death of your father's whole family." 1 Samuel 22:22
David was filled with the Holy Spirit. The same Spirit in Him is the Spirit who lives in those who have trusted in Jesus for salvation. Sometimes, the Spirit gives insight into what will happen. The question is: What will we do with this information?
David knew that Doeg the Edomite saw him at Nob. He also knew that Doeg was allied with Saul. My guess is that the Spirit probably tried to warn David about what could happen to Ahimelech the priest and his family. Yet like we sometimes do, he might have brushed the thought aside. Surely, Saul wouldn't consider harming the priests of the Lord, would he?
The momentary concern David felt eventually became reality. Just as he might have feared, Doeg told Saul of Ahimelech's aid to David, and Saul ordered the death of Ahimelech and his father's entire family. What might have happened if David had followed his instinct? Ahimelech and his family could have fled with David. Unfortunately, David carried the blame. In truth, the guilt was Saul's. David was not responsible.
There are times that I feel a nudge from the Spirit and I need to act upon it. Not long ago, a friend introduced me to his pastor. When I met him, I sensed an uneasiness behind his smile. I felt the loneliness that he was expertly hiding. As I had done so many times before, I disregarded these instincts. If no one else could sense these things, maybe they weren't real.
In a matter of months, the truth was revealed. This man had developed an inappropriate emotional connection with a woman he counseled, and now his wife has given up on trying to make the marriage work. Five children are living in the rubble of a broken home.
Was it my responsibility? Could I have changed the outcome? This home was already crumbling; I couldn't have stopped it. But could I have sounded an alarm?
Lord, help me to clearly understand Your leadings. Give me the wisdom and the courage to address them. Too many times I have asked myself, "Did I really feel that?" Give me eyes to see and ears to hear.