2 Samuel 5 Devotional

Raised Up for His People

“And David realized that the LORD had established him as king over Israel and had exalted his kingdom for the sake of His people Israel.”2 Samuel 5:12 (BSB)

All the tribes of Israel come to Hebron and anoint David king. They remind him that the LORD had said he would shepherd God's people (5:2). David takes Jerusalem and grows greater and greater, because the LORD of Hosts is with him (5:10). He defeats the Philistines twice, asking the LORD each time before he moves. The second time the LORD tells him to wait for the sound of marching in the treetops, the sign that the LORD himself has gone out ahead of him (5:24).

David realizes that the LORD has established him as king and lifted up his kingdom for the good of Israel, God's people (5:12). The throne is not a prize for David's enjoyment. It is a trust, given so that God's people would be cared for. Long after David's death, God promised his flock one shepherd, his servant David (Ezekiel 34:23), a promise fulfilled in Jesus, the Son of David. Whatever strength or place God has given you, it was given for the good of others.

To think about: What has God placed in your hands that is meant for the good of others, not only for you?