The saying “When the going gets tough, the tough get going” has been attributed to both Joseph P. Kennedy and to football player and coach Knute Rockne. The lesser known interpretation of the phrase is that when a situation becomes difficult, those who appear strong leave for fear of being proven the opposite.

Saul will despair of seeking me any longer within the borders of Israel, and I shall escape out of his hand.

I Samuel 27:1

Today’s verse says this is what David did after seven years of running from Saul. Even though God had anointed David as the next king, he was living like a fugitive. King Saul was hunting him down to kill him. The stress and strain caused David to forget God’s promises. He began to doubt the Lord so badly that he left the Promised Land to live among his enemies, the Philistines.

Are you going through a season of tough times? Don’t doubt God’s promises. “Get going” back to His Word and allow it to strengthen your faith. Pray for His promises to be fulfilled – and for the nation to turn back to Him (II Chronicles 7:14).

Recommended Reading: Isaiah 30:15-21