May 1

In 1 Samuel 20, we see the deep bond of friendship between David and Jonathan tested by the growing danger from King Saul. David is a fugitive, facing betrayal and uncertainty, yet he continues to seek God's protection. Jonathan, despite being Saul’s son, chooses loyalty to God's anointed rather than loyalty to earthly power.

The long list of names in 1 Chronicles 4 reminds us that each life, each story — even those that seem forgotten — matters to God. Within that genealogy, the prayer of Jabez (1 Chronicles 4:10) stands out as a cry for God's blessing and protection, a reminder that God hears the prayers of those who seek Him.

In Psalm 56 and Psalm 57, David pours out his heart to God while on the run from Saul. In Psalm 56, he says, "When I am afraid, I put my trust in you" (v. 3). In Psalm 57, he prays, "Be merciful to me, O God, be merciful to me, for in you my soul takes refuge" (v. 1). These psalms show us that fear is natural, but faith is our response — trusting God's promises even when our situation feels overwhelming.

In Acts 14, Paul and Barnabas face hardship, too — persecution, misunderstanding, even physical violence. Yet, they do not give up. They continue preaching the Gospel boldly, strengthening the souls of believers and reminding them that “through many tribulations we must enter the kingdom of God” (Acts 14:22).

Across these passages, the message is clear: God is faithful in seasons of fear, uncertainty, and hardship. Whether running from danger like David, walking faithfully through life’s unknowns like Jabez, or boldly proclaiming Christ like Paul and Barnabas, we are called to place our trust fully in the Lord. His protection, His guidance, and His presence are sure even when everything around us feels unstable.

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