Read: 2 Samuel 1-3
Focus Verse: “All the people took note and were pleased; indeed, everything the King did pleased them. So on that day all the people there and all Israel knew that the King had no part in the murder of Abner Son of Ner.” (2 Samuel 3:36-37).
Devotion: David continues to win people over. First his adversary Saul dies and David is seen mourning and fasting to honor Saul. Then Abner takes command after Saul and is at civil war with David for a long time. When Abner offers a surrender he is tricked and murmured in revenge by one of David’s men. Because David mourns and celebrates the life of his fallen enemy Abner, the people know that he didn’t have anything to do with it. So, what’s David’s secret for winning people over? Well, besides him just being a great guy, I’d say it’s how he so deeply and genuinely cares for other people, especially how he loves and cares for people who are his enemies. David was an excellent leader who could rally people, because he deeply and truly cared for people, and everyone could see it.
Pray: LORD help me be that kind of spiritual leader. One who cares so much it’s obvious that it is just who I really am. Amen.
Additional Scripture: “I know the plans I have for you,” says the LORD. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.” (Jeremiah 29:11)