Some experiences in the Christian life are best described as times of misery. Failure, mixed with disobedience and discouragement, is hard to bear. Some experiences are times of ministry, where the Lord gives special measures of strength and encouragement—where you are used in fruitful ways—and it's a downhill slide. Some experiences are times of mystery. Nothing is necessarily wrong or missing in your walk with the Lord, but for some unexplainable reason He places a definite restraint on you. His denial can lead to disillusionment or be used as a cause for continued growth in obedience. David experienced that mysterious “no” at a crucial juncture in his life. Let's see how he handled it.