Have you ever encountered someone who was so different from those around them, they stood out in a powerful and positive way? The kind of someone whose confidence and courage caused you to desire to be more like them? The kind of individual that caused you to realize how much more your life could be?
This is how I feel when I read about David in 1 Samuel chapter 17. There is something about David’s simple and sincere approach to things..whether taking care of sheep or taking care of a giant…that makes me wish I were more like him and less like Saul.
What are the differences?
- David went immediately to the front lines, while Saul stayed back behind the lines. (1 Samuel 17:22,31.)
- David said “don’t worry,” while Saul was scared. (1 Samuel 17:11,32.)
- David was willing to go to battle himself, while Saul was trying to find someone to go for him. (1 Samuel 17:25.)
- David remembered God’s faithful intervention in the past, while Saul forgot it. (1 Samuel 14:20-23 and 1 Samuel 15:7-8.)
- David saw things in terms of their effect on God and His glory, while Saul saw things in terms of their effect on Saul and his glory.
Though he wasn’t “officially” the king, David carried and conducted himself as a king. Why? Because he had an internal strength of character that came from focusing on God and submitting to Him. This thrills the heart of God and leads Him to respond. (2 Chronicles 16:9)
Who wants to be like David? I do! How about you?
Thank you, Bret!!! I truly needed this!!!
Grateful to know this. I’m always praying that I’m not writing for just myself.
Me too!