1 chronicles 18 begins with a phrase no one likes to hear, “In the course of time“. It implies waiting. It is the time between planting and harvesting. Since we live in a microwave generation, we often miss the connection between preparation and results. The Bible is filled with examples, but spiritual maturity happens individually as we learn to trust the promises of God. Only after we learn to submit to God’s authority can we willingly be used for His purposes. “David defeated the Philistines and subdued them, and he took Gath and its surrounding villages from the control of the Philistines“. “Subdue” and “Control” are words not often associated with youth. Just picture a teenage driver and words like “reckless” come to mind. Insurance companies know well, that it takes time to correct impulsiveness. As the chapter continues, King David overcame one nemesis after another. “David also defeated the Moabites, and they became subject to him and brought tribute“. Note this was not a voluntary gift but rather a forced tax. There is a sense that the enemy has not given up, they must continue to be kept under control. In my life those enemies are much more personal; things like fear, anger and pride. What enemies harass you?
Also notice that David did not fight every enemy at once. We gain encouragement from one victory to help prepare for the next battle. “David fought Hadadezer king of Zobah… to establish his control along the Euphrates River“. Each battle helps define the boundaries of our life. Do you have firmly established lines that you will not cross? “David captured a thousand of… chariots, seven thousand charioteers and twenty thousand foot soldiers. He hamstrung all but a hundred of the chariot horses“. David did not allow his “stuff” to keep him from continuing on. I’m convinced that success can be a bigger hindrance than failure, but David had been prepared. “The Arameans became subject to him and brought tribute“. David understood that God was in control. Twice we read, “The Lord gave David victory everywhere he went“. Do you express your thankfulness to God?
As the chapter continues, we see huge quantities of gold and bronze being accumulated as David stockpiled supplies for his son to build the temple. “David took the gold shields carried by the officers of Hadadezer and brought them to Jerusalem... David took a great quantity of bronze, which Solomon used to make the bronze Sea, the pillars and various bronze articles“. Every parent wants to give their children the things they were lacking, but we need to be careful that we don’t interfere with THEIR time of preparation. “King David dedicated these articles to the Lord, as he had done with the silver and gold he had taken from all these nations: Edom and Moab, the Ammonites and the Philistines, and Amalek“. The chapter ends with an incredible statement, but it is the result of learning to trust God. “David reigned over all Israel, doing what was just and right for all his people“. While wealth is not evil, I hope my legacy is more like the one given by the apostle Peter when he approached a lame beggar. “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk“. Taking him by the right hand, he helped him up, “and instantly the man’s feet and ankles became strong” (Acts 3:6). I pray the Word of God strengthens you for the challenges ahead.