May 1st

Today’s passage recounts the seven-year process of David becoming king over all Israel, found in 2 Samuel 5 and 1 Chronicles 11–12. David reigned for a total of 40 years—his first seven years were over Judah, ruling from Hebron, and the remaining thirty-three years were over all the tribes of Israel from Jerusalem.

The key insight for me from these chapters is that God is looking for people who are desperately dependent on Him for all things. We see this clearly in David’s dependence on God when facing a formidable enemy. In 2 Samuel 5:18–19 and 22–23, we read:

“Now the Philistines had come and spread out in the Valley of Rephaim. And David inquired of the Lord, ‘Shall I go up against the Philistines? Will you give them into my hand?’ And the Lord said to David, ‘Go up, for I will certainly give the Philistines into your hand.’ … And the Philistines came up yet again and spread out in the Valley of Rephaim. And when David inquired of the Lord, he said, ‘You shall not go up; go around to their rear, and come against them opposite the balsam trees.’”

In each situation, the Lord gave David and Israel victory. But what stands out is that the strategy was different each time. One battle required a direct approach, while the next called for a flank from behind the balsam trees.

How often, when we face difficult circumstances, is our first response one of humility as we seek God’s guidance? David’s example demonstrates that God’s deliverance doesn’t always come in the same form. Even if we've faced a similar trial in the past, the current challenge still requires God's guidance. Rushing into a familiar situation without seeking Him can be dangerous.

We see this also in 1st Chronicles 11–12. David had been waiting thirteen years for his rightful reign after being anointed by Samuel. Yet he didn’t force his way to the throne or try to take it from Saul—God’s anointed king. David trusted God’s Word and timing. When Saul and Jonathan died in battle, David was anointed king over Judah at Hebron. But even then, he didn’t impose his rule on the northern tribes. He waited patiently another seven years until all of Israel came to Hebron to anoint him king. (Take time to read the list of those who came to support David—it’s powerful.)

Takeaway: In this life, we will face all kinds of circumstances—good, bad, and ugly. Many people try to force their will to produce what they are convinced is the right outcome. But God is looking for people of faith who trust His sovereignty. If God intends a path for you, and you encounter obstacles, His desire is that you would turn to Him for guidance. He may lead you straight into a confrontation that He will use for His purposes and your good. But just as likely, He may lead you around it, in a completely different way.

David waited twenty years before becoming king over all Israel. … What do you believe the Lord wants to do through your life for His kingdom? … Will you be okay if you have to wait?