Ob and In:
Who made David the king over Israel?
A. Saul was unfaithful to the LORD and therefore He transferred the kingdom to David
10:13 So Saul died because he was unfaithful to the LORD and did not obey the LORD’s instructions; he even tried to conjure up underworld spirits. 14 He did not seek the LORD’s guidance, so the LORD killed him and transferred the kingdom to David son of Jesse.
(NAC) Saul should have taken his problems to the Lord, but he did not “inquire” (šāʾal) of the Lord. It meant for him not merely seeking information but a deep dependence on God born out of a trustful attitude of personal faith and loyalty. Failure to inquire of the Lord on this occasion was a further indication of Saul’s whole attitude. Godly leadership is characterized by complete obedience to the Lord and by seeking guidance from him in faith. Saul failed on both counts
Reflection: Whom do we go to ask for information? Who do we trust and loyal to? Saul's failure to do so made him lost his kingship as well as his life.
B. According to the promise of God, Israel came to David and wanted him to be their king 11:1-3
11:2b 'You will shepherd my people Israel; you will rule over my people Israel.'
(NAC) God had appointed him to “shepherd” his people and to become their “ruler.” This term was used in preference to the term “king” in many passages because “king” often had unfortunate political overtones.11: 10 These were the leaders of David’s warriors who, together with all Israel, stood courageously with him in his kingdom by installing him as king, in keeping with the LORD’s message concerning Israel.
see also 12:18
12:23 The following is a record of the armed warriors who came with their leaders and joined David in Hebron in order to make David king in Saul’s place, in accordance with the LORD’s decree:
Reflection: These warriors helped make David the king over Israel according to the promise of God. Do you see anyone doing the work of God and you want to help them? Or can other people see you as the instrument used by God and they want to help you?
David was called to be the shepherd ruler over his people. He is not the typical political "king" who ruled with their own desires. He led his people under the supervision of God. How about you? How do you lead?
Reflection: The warriors helped David to fight the wars for him, but it was God who was behind them 11:14. Do we take credit for our own success? Or we see God's help and credit to Him?
C. His commander fought the Jebusistes for David to live there 11:4-7, and he helped restore the city wall v.8b, but it was the LORD Who helped David's power to grow v.9.
(NAC) David and all Israel went to Jerusalem, the Canaanite “Jebus,” a rocky site surrounded by valleys, which gave its occupants a great sense of security. ...David captured the fortress of Zion, the City of David.” That the stronghold would be taken was in the purpose of God.
(additional information)
The fortress of Zion 11:5=(BKC) a hill overlooking the Jebusite city which David added to the original settlement
米羅Terraces 11:8=(BDB) Assyrian mulû = earthwork, mound, terrace
(BKC) is literally, “the Millo” (NIV) . This Hebrew word means “filling,” so this may have been the area between the two hills (Jebus and Zion) which was filled in to level the whole city
Reflection: The warriors helped David to fight the wars for him, but it was God who was behind them 11:14. Do we take credit for our own success? Or we see God's help and credit to Him?
Audrey
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