July 21
July 21
Psalm 78:65–72
From Servant to Ruler
We know that David committed adultery and that he made a man drunk and had him murdered. In addition, he once took a census of the Israelites out of disobedience to God—70,000 people died as a result. But David is still a great man. God forgave him and used him in a wonderful way.
David was a man of humility. “He also chose David His servant, and took him from the sheepfolds; from following the ewes that had young He brought him, to shepherd Jacob His people, and Israel His inheritance” (vv. 70–71). David began as a servant, and God made him a ruler. That’s always God’s pattern. There are those who make themselves leaders, but God’s blessing is not upon them. David had God’s blessing because he was faithful in his job. That’s what Jesus said in one of His parables: “Well done, good and faithful servant; you were faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord” (Matt. 25:21). If you want to be a leader, learn how to be a follower. If you want to be a ruler, learn how to be a servant, faithfully doing what God has called you to do.
David was a man of integrity. “So he shepherded them according to the integrity of his heart” (v. 72). Integrity means having one heart, whereas a double-minded man is unstable in all his ways (James 1:8). David’s sole purpose was to serve the Lord.
David was a man of ability. He “guided them by the skillfulness of his hands” (v. 72). Integrity ties your heart and your hands together. Your heart serves the Lord, and your hands are busy for Him. We need people like that today. No amount of dedication can compensate for a lack of skill, but no amount of skill can compensate for a lack of dedication. We need both.
David exhibited the traits of a true ruler—humility, integrity, and ability. They also are required of you for faithful service. Where has God placed you for service? Are you a faithful leader or follower? He rewards His faithful servants. Dedicate yourself to the Lord today and serve Him faithfully.