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Dear Heavenly Father, Praise David said, “The Lord lives! Praise be to my Rock! Exalted be God, the Rock, my Savior! He is the God who avenges me, who puts the nations under me, who sets me free from my enemies. You exalted me above my foes; from violent men you rescued me. Therefore I will praise you, O Lord, among the nations; I will sing praises to your name” (2 Sam 22:47–50 NIV). You are a God who delivers the righteous from trouble, and you are a shield for all who take refuge in you! Praise the Lord! Today in Your Word Today you told me how you gave David victory over all his enemies. In the west, David defeated the Philistines and won key battles in the cities of Gob and Gath. In the east, David conquered the Moabites and forced them to pay tribute. In the north, David subdued Hadadezer and the Syrians and captured many articles of gold and silver. In the south, David destroyed the Edomites in the Valley of Salt and put garrisons throughout Edom. The author of 2 Samuel summarized David’s success this way: “The Lord gave victory to David wherever he went” (2 Sam 8:14). This teaches me that the key to victory is found in your enabling power. If I remain dedicated and loyal to you, you will give me the grace I need to conquer my foes! Psalm 60 reveals that David experienced setbacks during his battles. Instead of panicking and giving up, David brought his frustration and discouragement to you. He called out, “Save us and help us with your right hand, that those you love may be delivered” (Ps 60:5 NIV). He also recognized the true source of his success: “With God we shall do valiantly; it is he who will tread down our foes” (Ps 60:12). When every enemy had been subdued, David wrote a song of praise to you, thanking you for delivering him from all his troubles (Ps 18). This teaches me that the proper way to celebrate my achievements is to honor and glorify you. Reflection It’s interesting that you gave David the very things you told Israel’s kings not to multiply for themselves: horses, silver and gold (1 Chr 18:4, 10). David’s reaction is telling. He hamstrung the horses and dedicated the silver and gold to you. This prompts me to ask myself: how tightly do I cling to the things you give me? Request Father, I may not be surrounded by enemy nations who want to destroy me, but I am surrounded by the forces of darkness. Give me victory over Satan and help me to be more than a conqueror through Jesus Christ (Rom 8:37). Thanksgiving You rescued me from the chains of sin: “Therefore I will give thanks to You among the nations, O Lord, And I will sing praises to Your name” (Ps 18:49 NASB). In Jesus’ name, Amen. Suggested Hymn: “Victory All the Time” — Leila N. Morris. Meditation Verse: Psalm 18:6. |