I Samuel 18:29
“then Saul was even more afraid of David. So Saul was David’s enemy continually.”
At this point it was clear to David that the king was against him. It was occasional earlier, but now it was continual. David was in for the long haul as it would be this way for nearly a decade. It had become so challenging that harp playing couldn't sooth it.
This must have been tough on David. He was still a young man. Yes he was gifted and God was with him, but it wasn't long ago that he had left his family. He may have had worries about them. Could the king strike out against them? Punish the family as a way of getting to David.
God doesn't allow difficulties to go to waste. His earlier ones were used to prepare his faith for future ones. It also may have been a way to keep David pure. When things got easier for David in the future, it caused him occasion to sin with Bathsheba. Who knows what God has in mind when we go through trials. Fortunately the Lord does and He uses them for multiple purposes.
David appeared to be on the road often as he would have to visit battle lines. This was probably a good thing, as he was out of sight from the king. Unfortunately worry can be ever present. The busyness was probably helpful, as it would occupy his mind.
The Lord will keep us busy as to occupy our minds as well. He will also give us faith, so as not to be overcome with worry. I Corinthians 10:13 speaks of God providing a way. While this isn't a temptation, God still creates ways to cope. Jesus says that His yoke is easy and His burden light (Matthew 11:30). When yoked to Him, He pulls enough that we won't have to. At times it'll be a strain, but it won't be too much.
God is much more than brilliant. Our smart vehicles know and inform as things get troublesome. God does that and manages the difficulty as well as our tolerance. One more reason that He is worthy of our trust and praise.
To think that we have continuous enemies can be troublesome. However, His Word brings comfort, as does His Spirit and His people. He turns it around and "prepares a table for us in the presence of our enemies", (Psalm 23). He will provide a feast and an honor banquet for us.
Thank You God that You don't allow these tough times to crush us, but use them to create trust. You are so good and we are honored that You put so much effort into these being growth opportunities. Thank You.