Read 1 Chronicles 11:1-9
David wasn’t just in the right place at the right time, he was chosen by God. The Chronicler doesn’t repeat the story told in 1 Samuel 16. So, David knew he was to be king years before Saul died. While waiting for God’s timing, David became very popular as a victorious army leader.
From the start, the people recognized God was moving, and David was following God. That kind of leadership must have looked a lot different than what the people were used to seeing of Saul. It was there at Hebron that David’s reign began, and the people were behind him. What a great way to start!
David’s first order of business was to establish his kingdom in Jerusalem. Bu there were Jebusites, a Canaanite tribe, already living in that city. David’s plan would eliminate them and move them out of their home. Even Joshua and his armies, generations before, had not been successful at taking Jerusalem.
“Let’s make it a contest,” David must have thought. He rewarded the one who attacked first to be the commander of his armies. That would be a place of honor alongside King David. As it turned out, his own nephew, Joab, was the “winner.” Joab was not only a mighty warrior, but instrumental in Jerusalem’s growth and rebuilding.
I’ve often made a game out of something difficult. I can remember how fast toys became scattered around on the floor when the kids were little. I can still hear the groans when I’d announce it was time to “pick up.” But, when gamifying it to see who could do it first, that was always great incentive!
The biggest take away in this reading for me is the last line. “And David became more and more powerful, because the Lord of Heaven’s Armies was with him.” David’s power was not because of his own strength. God was with him. God is with us, too.
Thankfully, I’m not planning to lead an army into battle, but I am going to get up each day and face the challenges of the world. It’s my goal each day to stay true to what God’s word says and not try to manipulate the truth into something it’s not. That is not always easy. But with the power of God living inside me, it’s a lot easier to discern.
How can you see God at work in your life?
Let’s pray. Lord, thank you for standing with me no matter what I will face today. Just like you were with King David, you are with me. Thank you for how you worked through him setting a good example for us of godly leadership. How much different this world would look if all leaders turned to you first. May I be obedient to you as I shine my light for you. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
