Sometimes no matter your efforts, people will reject you.

 

David was prepared to go to battle with Achish. Yet, the princes of the Philistines refused to allow him to fight with them.

 

Achish tried hard to persuade them with David’s good name, his legacy in battle, and the fact that he had proven himself trustworthy. Nothing worked. Nothing mattered. (1 Samuel 29)

 

It sure seemed like a gut punch to David as he asked, “What have I done?”

 

There was no real explanation as Achish reiterated how good and honorable David was to him. Yet he told David he would have to depart regardless because the “lords do not favor you.”

 

Seems ludicrous doesn’t it? Who wouldn’t want David on their team? A valiant warrior and loyal friend. A slayer of ten thousands?

 

You won’t find favor with everyone, especially earthly “lords.”

 

It can be the same today. The philistines just couldn’t seem to trust David regardless of his proven reputation. It’s kind of a moment for “Let it be as unto your faith.”

 

Many a mistake has been made by looking at the outward appearance of man. Consequences often ensue and it could be years before we even understand the devestation of our error.

 

If not careful, you and I could sit on either side of this coin. Let us be so careful that Christ is the voice we heed rather than the voice of men.

 

Maybe you’ve been misunderstood in a season and asked to leave.

 

Maybe you weren’t even asked but the Spirit knew of a hidden disdain that now was revealed in hearts.

 

Maybe you were too much for some who weren’t prepared to go where God was about to take you.

 

No matter the reason, God knows.

 

You’ll have to depart some spaces who can’t receive you. You may have even outgrown them. Trust God to order your steps and no matter who errors, He will use it for good.

 

I had a dream years ago that I was in a house with some others and I knew I was no longer welcome. I began to pack up my belongings which included candlesticks. I kept removing my candlesticks off the tables. The Lord showed me that when I left so would who He was in me. He was removing a lamp stand. While I felt like I was the one losing, He made it clear they were losing also. He instructed me to go with my gifts.

 

Just like David, I arose and departed having to trust the Lord with everything that made no sense in the natural.

 

Today, I see it was for my good and growth in Christ. He will do the same for you.

 

It is not wise to stay where you’re no longer welcome if God is nudging you to go. Sometimes we see a door closing and we try to hold it open. Trust me. Often, we stay too long. That’s when real problems arise.

 

Take your candlesticks and go with Jesus. Sometimes He has to remove a lamp stand that is no longer honored or simply finished with an assignment. Not every departure is negative. Sometimes, it just signifies the completion of a thing or the end of a season.

 

David went on to do great exploits. So will you.