READ 2 SAMUEL 5
GO DEEPER
Both David and Saul ascended to kingship after being anointed by God. However, their reigns diverged significantly in terms of their leadership styles. While Saul's rule was characterized by destructive disobedience, impatience, and pride, David's kingship reflected his obedience to God and his unwavering trust in God's plan for him as king.
When the Jebusites mock David and his soldiers for the robustness of the walls encircling Jerusalem, David's trust in God becomes evident. It is David's submission to God and God's power that enables the Israelites to capture Jerusalem. David is aware that God has ordained his reign for a specific reason, recognizing his role as an agent for God's kingdom.
It is often tempting to view our roles or the opportunities we have as means to achieve our desires, such as seeking influence, comfort, respect, or admiration. This comparison to Saul encourages reflection on our tendencies, while David's ascent to kingship serves as a model for embracing leadership with humility.
David's life exemplifies obedience to the Lord and a strong desire to follow His will even before he becomes King of Israel (1 Samuel 23:2, 11; 30:8; 2 Samuel 2:1). David has previously witnessed God's faithfulness and is aware that God is prompt to respond when he seeks His will instead of acting out of pride, fear, or self-reliance. When faced with challenges such as being surrounded by the Philistine army, David seeks God's guidance and is shown that God answers his prayers and keeps His promises. David consistently demonstrates patience, obedience, trust, and understanding of God's purposes throughout his life.
Ephesians 2:10 emphasizes that we are God's creation, designed in Christ Jesus to carry out good deeds that God has already planned for us. Paul writes, "For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them." Even though we may not attain royal status in our lifetimes, God has intentionally positioned each of us to bring glory to Him in our unique roles. Let us seek closeness with God, heed His guidance, and act in obedience to showcase His glory through our lives.
QUESTIONS
1. What roles do you currently fulfill (such as employee, parent, spouse, roommate, supervisor, volunteer, etc.) and how can you honor God in those positions?
2. Is there a choice or circumstance you are dealing with that you need to present to God in prayer? Take a moment to pray about it now.
3. In what areas is God prompting you to be loyal and compliant? How can you move towards obedience today?