May 9th
Today’s reading comes from 2nd Samuel 8–9 and 1st Chronicles 18. These passages tell of the early victories David experienced as he reigned over a united kingdom.
David experienced victory after victory against Israel’s enemies. He defeated the Philistines thoroughly. In 2nd Samuel the author refers to Metheg-ammah (Hebrew for “mother-city”)—in 1st Chronicles it is named as the principal Philistine city of Gath—referencing the decisive blow David dealt to Israel’s long-standing foes.
The driving force behind David’s success was the favor of God. As 1st Chronicles 18:6b declares,
“…the Lord gave victory to David wherever he went.”
Everyone knew that David’s successes were credited to the favor he found in the eyes of God. That understanding was due to David doing what was right in the eyes of the Lord.
These chapters cite two examples of the right-acting modus operandi of David:
- When King Toi (also spelled Tou in 1st Chronicles) of Hamath sent tribute to David in recognition of his victory over their mutual enemy, Hadadezer, David didn’t keep the wealth for himself. Instead, he dedicated it all to the Lord, as he did with many of the spoils that came through these victories.
- David sought out any remaining descendants of Jonathan to show them kindness for the sake of his covenant with his friend. David restored all that belonged to the house of Saul to the house of Methshibosheth.
Unlike Saul, David was not driven by self-interest. He prioritized honoring God and showing mercy to others.
Takeaway: When we make it our goal to glorify God above all else, we don’t need to worry about our own well-being. Jesus reminded us of this in Matthew 6:26:
“Look at the birds of the air: they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they?”