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- Oct 26, 2007
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So the Three broke through the Philistine lines, drew some water from the well by the gate in Bethlehem, and brought it back to David. But David refused to drink it. Instead, he poured it out as an offering to the LORD. 1 Chronicles 11:18 NLT
David was more homesick than in desperate need of water, and his three most trusted soldiers demonstrated their devotion by drawing water from the well in his hometown, which had been occupied by the Philistines. Their sacrifice could have been extremely costly, and by pouring the water on the land, David recognized that his life was not worth such an incredible sacrifice or devotion. David remembered that he wasn’t worthy of the devotion that belongs to God alone.
It feels good when others appreciate and value you. You probably wouldn’t complain if a friend went to the trouble of bringing you a cup of coffee or tea. Yet, where do you draw the line in desiring the admiration and respect of others? At what point do you cross over from wanting to be recognized to demanding reverence or honor that no person can rightly claim as his own?
Mind you, respect and devotion may be well earned. David’s soldiers loved him for the right reasons. But today’s reading is a brief, welcome reminder that the admiration of others can become a trap. Sometimes your character is revealed by the kind of praise you won’t receive.
Prayer: Lord, help me to serve others humbly, giving You the glory.
David was more homesick than in desperate need of water, and his three most trusted soldiers demonstrated their devotion by drawing water from the well in his hometown, which had been occupied by the Philistines. Their sacrifice could have been extremely costly, and by pouring the water on the land, David recognized that his life was not worth such an incredible sacrifice or devotion. David remembered that he wasn’t worthy of the devotion that belongs to God alone.
It feels good when others appreciate and value you. You probably wouldn’t complain if a friend went to the trouble of bringing you a cup of coffee or tea. Yet, where do you draw the line in desiring the admiration and respect of others? At what point do you cross over from wanting to be recognized to demanding reverence or honor that no person can rightly claim as his own?
Mind you, respect and devotion may be well earned. David’s soldiers loved him for the right reasons. But today’s reading is a brief, welcome reminder that the admiration of others can become a trap. Sometimes your character is revealed by the kind of praise you won’t receive.
Prayer: Lord, help me to serve others humbly, giving You the glory.
