Scripture - 1 Samuel 18:23

When Saul’s officers made it a point to say this, David asked, “Do you think it’s easy to become the king’s son-in-law? I am a poor and unimportant person.”

Observation

David was successful wherever Saul sent him, very successful because the Lord was with him. Everyone in Israel and Judah loved David, because he led them in and out of battle. The women greeting returning armies credited David with defeating tens of thousands, while celebrating Saul for defeating thousands.

Saul tries to trap David by offering his daughter to be David’s wife, ordering his officers to talk David into accepting the King’s offer. David answers, “Do you think it’s easy to become the king’s son-in-law? I am a poor and unimportant person.”

Despite his success over Goliath, the Philistines and everything he set his hand to, David remained humble. Success did not go to his head. His close relationship with and dependence on the Lord saved him from predators while he was a shepherd, and was also behind the victories over Goliath and the Philistines.

Application

It is natural to feel good about one’s success. However, for many, success breeds pride, sometimes growing to arrogance, hubris, narcissism, a sense of being better than those less successful, perhaps even thinking they are above the law, until they fall or self-destruct. Cheering fans can accelerate such thought. But not for David.

A proper perspective of God gives an appropriate understanding of my abilities and successes. He is Almighty, He is God and His ways are so much greater than mine. All I am and have ability to do comes from the Lord. Remembering this, and embracing all He has done for me through Christ, positions me to be used by Him to fulfill His purposes, and to give Him the glory for who He is and might accomplish through me.

Prayer

Lord, You extend your grace and save those who are humble. May I increasingly do what is right, love goodness and walk humbly with You.

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