Introductory Thoughts
Men frequently focus upon David’s extreme failures but fail to realize that he also exemplified a tremendous example of someone who understood loyalty. King Saul’s antics would have allowed most people to justify not affording Saul the loyalty his position warranted. Even many of David’s men held to this position. Yet, we read that David felt and acted otherwise. Although Saul repeatedly attempted to kill David, David did not take advantage of any of his opportunities to kill Saul. The Bible says that he refused to stretch forth his hand against the LORD’S anointed. Instead, David decided to send a message to Saul by cutting off the skirt of Saul’s robe. Because of David’s loyalty, even this act immediately smote his heart. His godly character trumped his personal frustrations toward the very man who sought to bring him grave, personal harm. Although David’s men were prepared and able to take the most aggressive actions, David advised against it.
Devotional Thoughts
-
(For children): We may not like those who have the authority over us. They may not even love God or personally care for us, but God still expects us to honour them when possible (Titus 3:1; 1 Peter 2:13-14, 18). Joseph, Nehemiah, and Daniel worked for pagan kings, yet they practiced Titus 3:2a.
-
(For everyone): Did Saul deserve Davids loyalty? If not, why was David loyal toward him? What did David do that brought conviction to his heart? What would it take to bring conviction to your heart when you fail to obey?
-
Davids men were loyal to David to the point that they were ready to kill Saul. How would Davids loyalty to Saul be a wonderful example and edification to his own men?
Prayer Thoughts
- Ask the Lord to teach you what it means to be loyal.
- Ask God for strength of character.
Song
YIELD NOT TO TEMPTATION
