Gather

 And everyone who was in distress, and everyone who was in debt, and everyone who was bitter in soul, gathered to him. And he became commander over them. And there were with him about four hundred men.
1 Samuel 22:2 ESV
https://bible.com/bible/59/1sa.22.2.ESV

This verse about David reminds me of the Son of David, the Lord Jesus Christ. David had been anointed King but he wasn't yet on the throne. Jesus might be King, but many still refuse to acknowledge Him.

If people aren't in distress, they're much less likely to follow Jesus. When all is going well, people tend to ignore God. When hardships come, some blame God whilst others run to Him for refuge.

Even if we're not literally in debt, we're all spiritually indebted to God. We owe Him everything, every breath we breathe is a gift from Him. Only Jesus can cancel our debt and make us rich spiritually.

If we're all self sufficient and self righteous, we're not going to see our need of Jesus. Bitterness of soul might not be pleasant, but if it drives us to Jesus to find the sweetness that only He can provide, it's worth it. Blessed are those who mourn over their sins, because they will be comforted.

'Blessed God, may we worship You and follow You all our days. Please help us persevere until Your glorious return, or You call us home, for the honour of Your name, amen'

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