2 Samuel 3:1
“Now there was a long war between the house of Saul and the house of David; and David became steadily stronger, while the house of Saul became steadily weaker.”
David is now king of Judah. He has had resistance for a long time. He was anointed king maybe 17 years earlier. He was working for Saul. But his popularity sky rocketed and Saul got jealous and sought to kill him. He's been on the run since then. Once Saul and Jonathon were killed in battle, David became king in Judah. Saul's servants promoted one of his children to be king over the remaining 11 tribes.
Resistance is still part of what David is to experience. It kept him dependent on God. When things come too easily we tend to get into trouble. Proverbs 3:11,12 says, "My son, do not reject the discipline of the LORD Or loathe His rebuke, For whom the LORD loves He disciplines, Just as father disciplines the son in whom he delights.”
The Lord works the same way with us. We will receive resistance. We are to trust just as David did. The apostle Paul called it contentment. Philippians 4:11 says, “I am not saying this out of need, for I have learned to be content regardless of my circumstances.”
We are to praise Him at all times. We can attempt to resolve issues and pray in that manner. Sometimes it works, other times it doesn’t. Regardless of how things go we are to praise Him and love others.
I’m reminded of Paul’s comments in Romans 12:8, “So far as it depends on you, be at peace with all men.” Some times it’s not possible. We are to never give up, even though some will not like us.
We continue on in good conscience and do our best. The Lord will bless us with success and favor. Those that oppose us aren’t our business. The balance of it all seems to go like today’s passage, “David steadily became stronger and the house of Saul steadily became weaker.” Even though circumstances aren’t always that way, the peace in our hearts will be.
We aren’t to concern ourselves with that out of our realm of influence. There is much going on that can stress us out and discourage us. Jesus’ words in Matthew 6:27, 28 tell us how to be, “And which of you by worrying can add a single day to his life’s span? And why are you worried about clothing? Notice how the lilies of the field grow; they do not labor nor do they spin thread for cloth.”
Our job is to follow Him. Proverbs 3:5,6 says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will direct your paths.” Psalm 37:4 gives more guidance, “Delight yourself in the LORD, and He will give you the desires of your heart.” As we look to Him He puts His desires in us and then He fills them. In one sense we do want we want. If it’s contrary to scripture it’s out of bounds.
Lord, thank You for the incredible life You provide us. The partnership You had with David was amazing. You want that in miniature for us. Thank You!!