12/12 Daily in the Word

David-a Person of Victory
1 Samuel 16:10-13

David didn't serve God because he saw victory; he saw victory because he served God.

While Saul's life stands as a sad example of someone who allowed disobedience to take away God's blessing and joy, on the other side stands David-a young boy who faithfully followed God and enjoyed His blessings and victories.

David's victory began years before he was ever crowned king. They weren't victories over invading armies or attacking foes, but were seen in his line of duty as a shepherd. When faced with an attacking bear and lion, David defeated him with his bare hands as he told Saul, "And David said unto Saul, Thy servant kept his father's sheep, and there came a lion, and a bear, and took a lamb out of the flock: And I went out after him, and smote him, and delivered it out of his mouth: and when he arose against me, I caught him by his beard, and smote him, and slew him" (1 Samuel 17:34-35). David saw impressive victory during his days as a shepherd, but he immediately gave God the credit. He understood his source of strength and allowed God to give him the victory.

Notice a few characteristics of David, the person of victory:

Content as a servant. Above all else, David was content serving his father as a shepherd boy. He cared for the flock and took seriously their safety (as is evidenced by his protection against attacking animals).

David perfectly exhibited 1 Timothy 6:6, "But godliness with contentment is great gain." If we were to interview David's mighty men who he led later in life, we'd find that for the most part they were not attracted to his dominance but to his obedience. He was a humble, servant leader in every aspect of his life.

Comforted by godly music. David faced many of the same stresses that Saul did, yet each reacted differently. Saul was enraged by his circumstances, and David was joyful in his. One of the distinguishing factors in David's reaction was his love of godly, uplifting music.

The power of godly music has been used throughout history to comfort those who are troubled. Uplifting music has a calming, encouraging affect during times of trial. As God suggests in Ephesians 5:19, "Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord."

Cautious to avoid retaliation. David responded properly when attacked by danger-not the danger of animals attacking but of Saul's throwing of a spear. Saul became so enraged with jealousy one day while David was playing his harp, that he grabbed a nearby spear and lofted it at David. David quickly recoiled and avoided being injured. Yet rather than throw the spear back, he left things where they were. He refused to retaliate.

No matter Saul's actions he was still sitting on Israel's throne. Even though David had been anointed as Israel's next king, he refused to usurp Saul's authority by reacting harshly to Saul's attack. David had every right to be upset-his life was threatened! Yet he recognized his immediate place and refused to give in to retaliation.

David behaved himself wisely in all his ways. He was content as a servant, allowed spiritual music to comfort him, and didn't give in to retaliation. As sad as Saul's life ended, the hope of a new, more godly king rose in David.

Allow David's life to be an example to follow. He submitted himself to God's will and humbly followed Him. Ask God to help you be like David, to humbly walk in spiritual victory each day.

Daily Bible Reading
Hosea 5-8 | Revelation 2