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Lent Day 22


Scripture Reading

2 Samuel 5:1-5


David has the privilege of being the second king in Israel's history. He followed the reign of Saul. The text points out that even during Saul's reign David proved that he was a mighty military leader which was absolutely necessary for a ruler during that time period. The interesting thing here is that the people recognized the leadership qualities of David and sought him out as their king. David was anointed king at Hebron and then the writer says that he ruled for forty years as king over Israel. 


This passage seems rather odd as we focus our attention on the cross of Christ, but we must read between the lines. Remember David was the person to whom God said that the Messiah will come from your lineage. He promised David that his descendants would rule Israel forever. What God meant was that Jesus Christ would be the eternal king to rule on David's throne. In many ways the life of David serves as an example to his peers of what the Messiah will be like. 


The anointing of David as king over Israel also serves to us as a reminder to Israel of the covenant promises of God. God renewed his covenant that he first made with Abraham. God reminded the people that he would always be faithful to his promises. His promises of hope, peace, security, and salvation. These promises can only be realized when we place our trust in Christ as our Lord and Savior. 


David was also a man after God's own heart. As you think about your own life, could people say that you are a person after God's own heart? Do you desire to love and serve God so much that nothing will stand in your way of doing that? This is certainly a radical call to obedience but it is the only option if we call ourselves a Christian. 


Prayer: Lord, I want to be like your servant David. Don't let anything keep me from loving and serving you with my whole heart. Thank you for using David and his descendants to bring about the wonderful Messiah. Please continue to use the life and words of David to draw people to you. Amen.

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