When was the last time you traced the hand of God in your life? Some might choose their birthday to reflect on God’s work in their life, others might select the dawn of a new year.
In 2 Samuel 22 and 23:1-7, we read the inspired reflections of King David at the end of his reign as Israel’s king. Together, these two psalms give us his appraisal of the hand of God in his life—from the outset of his tenure as monarch to its closing days. They provide a good framework for us to look back on as we consider our journey with Jesus. Focusing on 2 Samuel 23:1-7, we should ask ourselves:
• Who was I before God chose me? David was the son of Jesse (2 Samuel 23:1). In fact, he was the youngest son, and probably a neglected one (1 Samuel 16:1-13). Paul reminds us in 1 Corinthians 1:26-29 that we also have a humble beginning.
• What did I become as a result of His grace? From David’s life, we see that God used the nobody that nobody noticed. He raised the shepherd boy from obscurity to become the Lord’s anointed and “the sweet psalmist of Israel” (2 Samuel 23:1).
• How has my life pointed others to Christ? Many ancient (as well as modern) interpreters of 2 Samuel have understood David’s description of Israel’s ruler in 2 Samuel 23:3-4 as a reference to the Messiah. God chose David as king to show the world what it means to live under His rule. David’s reign ultimately pointed to the perfect and righteous King.
Just as David lived it out, let’s remind ourselves that we’re in a covenant relationship with God. All that we are or ever hope to be, we owe it all to Him. To God be the glory!
NLT 365-day reading plan passage for today: Matthew 10:16-42
More:
Psalm 139:13-18 describes the superintending hand of God in our lives—before we were born and throughout all our days.
Next:
Take time to trace the hand of God in your life. Praise Him for His wonderful work and recommit yourself to trust Him more fully.
jstabel on July 15, 2012 at 5:53 am
It is important that before we start complaining about our present situation,we should remember the point from were God brought us and to the place He is leading us.
kips1 on July 23, 2012 at 12:01 pm
Its very true where God has brought us from two years ago i detested church and everthing about God and just yesterday i got baptised beleive it or not,God knows us in and out and has good plans for mankind
pohfangchia on July 23, 2012 at 9:13 pm
Thank you, kips 1, for your testimony of God’s sovereign grace. I’m praying for some people whom I know are struggling with church too. Your sharing encourages me.
🙂
poh fang