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TOPIC: UNKINDLY KING
[DCLM DAILY MANNA 26 SEPTEMBER 2018 DAILY DEVOTIONAL]
Text: 1 Samuel 22:11-23 (KJV)
Key Verse: “And the king said unto the footmen that stood about him, Turn, and slay the priests of the LORD; because their hand also is with David, and because they knew when he fled, and did not shew it to me. But the servants of the king would not put forth their hand to fall upon the priests of the LORD“ (1 Samuel 22:17).
MESSAGE:
A notable man once said “It is better to be without a king than to have a bad one.” Why? Because kings are symbols of fairness and justice. Kings depict honour, respect and orderliness in human societies. A wise king is indeed a blessing to the society.
In the passage today, King Saul brought shame and dishonour to the office he occupied. Unduly burdened with the rising profile of David, he sought to destroy him and his associates. He couldn’t lay hands directly on David but got information from Doeg that Ahimelech, the high priest, offered David assistance. He consequently called Ahimelech to account for his actions. He ordered his servants to kill the high priest and his team for supporting “David, and because they knew when he fled, and did not shew it to him.”
Despite the refusal of his servants to kill the high priest, Saul got Doeg to do his bidding. We must not allow people to influence us to do what we know is wrong. Paul told Timothy not to “partake in other men’s sins”. We must follow the same injunction in our daily walk whether at work, at home or in the church. Saul’s behaviour showcased human depravity, even though he was king. We, who are children of God, must be fair to all in our dealings with people. We must also be kind and respectful to men and women of God. Above all, we must not be jealous or envious of others.
Saul behaved contrary to the dignity and importance of his office and title. As believers, God expects us to respect others, ourselves and the office we occupy.
Thought For The Day: Responsible people always respect themselves.
Bible Reading In One Year: Nehemiah 1-5
