Persuading David

Synopsis     1Chron 12:26-40     12/26/2019 

King David was living in Hebron. And so, after the time of Saul’s death, the leaders of the various tribes came to him. When they came, they came in force.  

The various leaders brought their tribal military units with them. The warriors assembled from all the tribes in a dramatic show. Thousands upon thousands of men who were pledging service to David. 

Persuading David 

The tribal leaders determined that David should be the next king. They wanted a ruler who could unify the nation. And they wanted a leader who could bring military victory and security.  

So, they came to Hebron to pressure David. Their intent was to persuade him of their earnestness by placing their entire military force under his authority. And with this, they intended to make him their king. 

It’s an interesting scene. The tribal leaders believed they were choosing David to be their king. And in a sense they were. But David had many years before been chosen by God, and anointed by the prophet Samuel, to be the king over Israel.  

So, while the leaders may have thought they were making David king and promising to serve him. What they were really doing was agreeing with God’s plan for David and for the nation.  

Persuading Myself 

One of the most interesting aspects of philosophical and scientific inquiry is the idea of purpose. Of course, purpose is the foundation of Christian moral reasoning. Here’s the premise: 

God creates with purpose.  

So, God created me with purpose. And entering into my purpose is the work of life. 

Now, like the tribal leaders who thought they were David’s kingmakers, it might seem like I’m in charge. I may think that I’m doing all the deciding when it comes to pursuing my goals and ambitions. And it’s entirely right to say that I am created with freedom to choose.  

But really, the domain of my freedom is to enter fully into God’s purpose for my life, or not. And I make this choice daily, or not.  

So, trust in the purpose for which He made you. Choose His purpose for your life beginning today. 

“I am confident of this, that the one who began a good work in you will continue to complete it until the day of Christ Jesus.” Phil 1:6