Read: 1 Samuel 18-20
Focus Verse: “In everything he did he had great success, because the LORD was with him. When Saul saw how successful he was, he was afraid of him.” (1 Samuel 18:14-15).
Devotion: Saul thought he might lose his kingdom because David was more successful. David was servicing Saul and doing everything for the good of the kingdom, yet Saul was jealous and angry. David won the love of the people in two ways. 1, he was successful in all that he did, and 2, he led by example, in the front lines. He was successful only because the LORD was with him, and he relied on the LORD. We also see as this verse continues that “…all Israel and Judah loved David, because he led them in their campaigns.” (1 Sam 18:16). Because he led them. While Saul was king, David led the people. David was out fighting alongside the people. So if we glean anything, LORD let us learn this: Lean on God and lead others by being with them, walking alongside them. It’s not enough to be King or be successful, but we need to humbly serve God by serving others.
Pray: LORD help me be humbled so that I may rely on You and so that others will see my love for You while I walk alongside them. Amen!
Additional Scripture: “LORD my God, I cried to You for help, and You restored my health.” (Ps. 30:2)