THE FOLLOWING REFLECTION IS BASED ON 1 Samuel 26:1-25 FAITHFULNESS: 1 Sam 26:1-25. Loyalty Brings Its Own Reward As one who takes a fairly close interest in politics I have noticed that loyalty can be a very loosely traded commodity; particularly among some smaller groups competing for the balance of power. It was the U.S. President Truman who famously said, If you want a friend in Washington, get a dog. There is no question about a dogs loyalty but, sadly, men are a different story. After many long and hard months on the run David was now in a position where he could rid himself of Saul forever. He could finally be free to return to his home and his family. He could finally be free to join in the worship of YHWY in the properly appointed place. He would no longer be an outcast and all he had to do was kill his enemy who lay sleeping on the ground in front of him; it was that easy. But David had one big problem. His enemy was the king, and not just any king, Saul was Gods appointed king. Saul was a deeply troubled man, Saul was erratic and impulsive, and as a king Saul was a failure. But to a man like David loyalty was more important than freedom and loyalty to God was more important than his own life. David could easily have argued a case of self-defence, who would blame him after all that Saul had put him through and many of his countrymen would have rejoiced tho hear that Sauls crazed reign had finally come to an end. But David held firm to his conviction that Gods justice would prevail and remained loyal to his king and faithful to his God. No! David said. Dont kill him. For who can remain innocent after attacking the Lords anointed one? (1 Sam 26:9) Such loyalty as David had is rare, but those who respond with loyalty to Gods chosen leaders are showing their loyalty and faithfulness to the One from whom all authority is derived. With such loyalty God is well-pleased. I urge you, first of all, to pray for all people. As you make your requests, plead for God’s mercy upon them, and give thanks. Pray this way for kings and all others who are in authority, so that we can live in peace and quietness, in godliness and dignity. This is good and pleases God our Saviour, (1 Tim 2:1-3)
Posted on: Mon, 28 Jul 2014 11:07:09 +0000
Trending Topics
Recently Viewed Topics
© 2015