David is now king, not just of Judah, but all Israel. And one might think with that position, comes security. But not when you have the heart of a warrior.
For the Philistines, the enemies of Israel whom David had fought so diligently in the past, have heard the news. When the Philistines heard that David had been anointed king over Israel, they all went in search of David, but he heard about it and went down to the stronghold. So the Philistines came and spread out in the Valley of Rephaim. 2 Samuel 5:17-18 David could send the troops. David could give the command. David could stay home and be guarded... thinking he had it all under control. But David knew that he was not in charge. David took up residence in the stronghold, which he named the city of David. He built it up all the way around from the supporting terraces inward. David became more and more powerful, and the Lord God of Hosts was with him. 2 Samuel 5:9-10 I can't quite imagine what it would be like to be the most powerful in the land, with valiant victories behind me and the hand of God upon me. But I bet it would be easy to let it go to your head. But David doesn't. He inquires of the Lord, “Should I go to war against the Philistines? Will you hand them over to me?” And the Lord delivers the victory. And when God moves, it's not subtle nor small. No, if we will humble ourselves and ask Him for help... Our God shows up like a Bursting Flood. Let us too realize His power, His presence, His longing to rescue. When we are pressured by enemies... thoughts of doubt and fear, stresses of a schedule too full, and pressures to be like the world around... let us take God as our stronghold and refuge. Let us inquire of Him what He would have us do. Then let us stand firm to see the victory of our God... our Bursting Flood clearing the way for triumph.
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January 2019
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