February 19, 2024

II Samuel 7.18, 19  (NIV)
Then King David went in and sat before the Lord, and he said: “Who am I, O Sovereign Lord, and what is my family, that you have brought me this far? And as if this were not enough in your sight, O Sovereign Lord, you have also spoken about the future of the house of your servant. Is this your usual way of dealing with man, O Sovereign Lord?”

David was a sinner, but he didn’t allow himself to be defined by sin but by faithfulness.* 

As in David’s case, it is possible to be both confident and humble at once. On his own, David would likely have remained a shepherd for the rest of his life, but David was no ordinary man. God chose him when he was just a boy who had no aspirations of greatness. God knew his potential – for good and for bad.

 

At the peak of his power, David reminds himself here of two things: his humble beginnings, and God’s hand in raising him up. While acknowledging that God is the one who has brought him this far, he doesn’t question his own capacity to fulfill God’s purpose for his life. David did not become a man after God’s own heart by indulging in insecurity or false modesty, or by becoming self-centered and proud.

“Is this the way God treats everyone?” he asks. Not everyone. Only those who have a heart for God get the “royal” treatment (pun intended!). Jesus said, “Seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” (Matthew 6.33) If you’re thinking, “That sounds like a good deal, where do I sign up?” think again. Yes, God made David rich and powerful but not without David’s commitment and sacrifice. Remember, Jesus also said, “If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow me.”  (Mark 8.34) 

Do we want a crown? The crown is ours – but not without a cross.*

*Quote sources available upon request.