1. The Amalekite raid (1-6)

When David and his men returned home, they found that tragedy had struck. The Amalekites had attacked the helpless city, burned it and taken captive all the women, including David's wives. David and his men wept aloud until they had no more strength to weep. The men were so bitter that they even talked about stoning David. David found strength in the Lord.

2. Tragedy turned into glorious victory (7-31)

David did not rush after the enemy. He first asked the Lord what to do. Then, with clear direction from the Lord, he pursued the Amalekites. His men were exhausted, and it was impossible to find the enemy in that wild country. But God provided a guide; they surprised the Amalekites and recovered everything, plus other plunder. David distributed the plunder fairly and used it wisely.

Application: Lord, teach me to depend on you in prayer and turn times of distress into glorious victory.
One Word: Find strength in the Lord