April 25

2 Samuel 8:15-18; 1 Chronicles 18:14-17, 6:16-30, 6:50-53, 6:31-48; 2 Samuel 9:1-10:19; 1 Chronicles 19:1-19

“David reigned over all Israel, doing what was just and right for all his people” (2 Samuel 8:15, 1 Chronicles 18:14). Today’s Scripture reading begins with a big statement. David did “what was just and right”—and it was not for some of the people or even most of the people, but it was for all the people. Sometimes it feels like it is hard to do what is “just and right” for everyone in my own small family; often it seems that at least one of us gets a bit shortchanged for the sake of another. But David ruled in such a way that everyone received what was just and right.

Given what we see in the governments of today’s world, I think we can all agree that this is only possible when one lives within the will of God, seeking Him first in all things. We know David lived this way because God describes him as a “man after [God’s] own heart.” (I Samuel 3:14, Acts 13:22). We can lead whatever “kingdom” God gives us, be it our family, our team at work, etc. with that same complete justice when we too, like David, love God’s Word first and long for Him “As the deer pants for streams of water…” (Psalm 42:1).

Dear Lord, may I please be a person after your own heart, loving your Word and seeking you first in all things that I might walk with strength and confidence in you in all circumstances. Amen. 

Do I seek God first in all things as David? Do I go to Him when things go as expected—and also when they do not?

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