2 Samuel 5:11-16

​Do you seek greatness from God or people?

Perceive: As David’s reign grows as a regional leader, his allies help him with the resources to build a new palace. His new home helped David realize that the Lord had exalted his kingdom.  Further evidence of David’s increasing power, success, and divine blessing was the growth of the royal family. By marrying into the various families and then bringing the newly acquired wives to Jerusalem, he was giving influential families throughout the nation a stake in his success. A natural result of more wives is more children. His increased blessings in the new city suggest that God is pleased with his actions and this new location. Unfortunately, the phrase “David took more concubines and wives” (v. 13) indicates more troubles may be in store for the future.
 
Practice:  David realized that it was the Lord who established him as king in his united kingdom. He knew his greatness came only from the Lord, and that staying great meant staying close to God personally and nationally. God was first place in his life, and he wants to make God first place in the nation's life. In your drive for success, income, and position, remember to seek first His kingdom and righteousness, and all these things will be added to you (Matthew 6:33).
 
Pray:  O Lord, convict me when I worry about income and security. Help me grow closer to You in my daily life. 
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​This devotional challenge comes from The Heart of a Lion - King David of Israel and is available on Amazon.com

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