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I couldn’t believe how much impact one small change could have
Steven Pawley
January 24, 2026
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The warning signs were there, then the unimaginable happens. Poor choices eventually catch up, and the consequences can’t be kicked any further down the road.
There’s going to be a “payday” someday. I’d really like to help spare you some pain.
David is confronted with a poor decision that’s now costing him dearly and those he loves. It’s NOT the one with Bathsheeba (that was bad 🤦🏻); I’m talking about this one.
(The backstory). David got discouraged when God wasn’t doing “it” the way he expected. So, he wandered and did things his way instead of staying close and trusting God’s plan.
When he gets home, the one’s he cares about most are gone.
There were lots of warning signs leading up to 1 Sam. 30:1-6 but David ignored them.
We do too. Then comes payday.
He’s lost what is most important to him while he was out gaining more.
You know, your priority has become the checklist, checkbook or whatever you’re chasing instead of those you cherish.
Be careful. They might not be there when you finally decide to go home (v. 1-4).
Look at those losses – your closest relations, the respect of others, your reputation, all the stuff you regarded so highly…. what really should matter is now at risk.
He’s at rock bottom and it’s decision time.
When I’ve been there and done that, I couldn’t believe how much impact one small change could have. It’s at the end of this verse. Did you see it?
Those hot tears of regret when you hit rock bottom are really your turning point. Adios wandering one, I go to God. That’s the better plan.
You start to pray again (v. 8), consult with someone who knows God well (v. 7), and find out what God’s word says about the situation (v. 8-10). You encourage yourself in the Lord (v. 6).
God can help you recover whatever sin and selfish pursuits have ruined. But you’ll have to do it His way now and not everyone will be able to handle that (v. 9-10). Do it anyway.
Payday someday.
Pay attention to the warning signs if you like going after the things “out there somewhere” and doing things your way.
If payday hasn’t arrived, now might be a good time to gut check your priorities.
For some reading today, it might feel or be too late. Let those hot tears of regret turn you to Jesus, even if it’s been a while. You can encourage yourself in the Lord today.
He’s waiting and you’re still worthy.
Save and share this with others who need encouragement. I’ve added some stuff about handling loss and grief in the GO DEEPER section below. Hope they can be of help.
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GO DEEPER with Today’s Read:
Like you, I’ve been through intense seasons of loss and grief. Here are some normal stages you can expect when facing significant losses in life. Someday you’re going to need them so save and share them with others:
Some Stages of Grief from 1 Sam. 30:1-8
Usually, the first three stages happen early into the event. The last two can take a while, and for some even a year or two or more. Let these be general guides to better understanding the grief process:
Shock & Disbelief (3). We try to comprehend what just happened. “burned”, “taken captive”, “carried away”. What horror must have filled these men.
Strong Grieving (4). “lifted up their voice and wept, until they had no more power to weep”
Irrational Anger (6). “the people spake of stoning him” Expect strong emotions.
You don’t have to speak into or try to “correct” their painful utterances or emotions. Just be present. They may express some very strong emotions toward those they blame. They might be mad at God. He can handle it; don’t intervene.
After they’ve had time to sit in the pain and loss, there comes a time to “begin life again”. Eventually, t’s helpful to become proactive instead of paralyzed by the loss. Let wisdom be your guide.
Taking Initiative (7). “bring me hither the ephod” Help them do some helpful things as they step into their “new normal” while also encouraging time with God.
Full Recovery: (8). “and without fail recover all” This is not always possible or practical. But in time, the sting will wear off, and a new season of life will emerge.
The Crowd Thins (8-10). It’s normal. People get on with their lives or just can’t handle the grief and recovery process for lots of reasons. Just keep going to full recovery. Give it time, it will happen (18).
Some Encouragement You Can Offer the Griever 2 Cor. 1:3-4
Your presence is more important than the “right words”. Silence and sitting is okay. You can offer appropriate hugs, comfort, love, and practical help with children, chores, and other responsibilities.
Be their support, not their Savior. That’s God’s job.
Meals, prayer, notes, financial support, physical needs, visits, and other kind gestures go a long way.
They need your help and encouragement not just immediately, but also days, weeks, even months after. Stay connected and keep encouraging. They don’t want to be an “imposition”. Minister anyway.
This post might be helpful too. It’s a good companion with today’s read .
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