TAKING ADVANTAGE OF ISOLATION

Among all these were 700 chosen men who were left-handed; every one could sling a stone at a hair and not miss. Judges 20:16
There are many big wilderness stories in Scripture: Jacob, Joseph, Moses, the children of Israel, Elijah, Jeremiah, Jesus, Paul.  They remind us that the wilderness is an essential, not optional, place of preparation for God's servants. But it is important that like David, we take advantage of the unique opportunity God provides at such times. 
David’s extreme isolation in the wilderness began in his youth as a shepherd. His older brothers did not treat him with much kindness or appreciation. As the youngest, and therefore the lowest of all the sons, he had no choice but to look after the sheep. As well David seems to have received little attention from his father. Although specifically asked by Samuel to present all of his sons, he did not think it worthwhile to call David in. 
Instead of mourning, pouting and feeling sorry for himself, David honed his skill with the sling, perhaps in an area similar to that shown in the photo that I took in Israel last year. According to Judges 20:16, the sling was a popular, easily transported weapon in Israel.  The wilderness provided the perfect place to be as good as the best in Israel.  His skill did not fail him when he met Goliath.
What will we do in the weeks and months to come?  Mourn or seize the opportunity to become skilled in some area?