Read 2 Samuel 8.
Once in full command of the unified nation of Israel , David
expanded the kingdom by defeating all the surrounding enemies. He made survivors to be servants of the
kingdom. The wealth of the spoils he
brought back to Jerusalem . A ruthless dictator would have abused this
power and wealth for his own selfish aggrandizement; but not David.
Why? What made this
superpower different?
1. The leader recognized the ultimate source of all power
and authority.
Twice in this chapter we are told "the LORD gave
victory to David wherever he went." As good a warrior as David was it would never
be enough to sustain a lasting kingdom and achieve God's expectations.
2. The leader recognized the ultimate owner of all things.
David was a faithful steward of all that God had allowed him
to have. Concerning the gold, silver and
bronze that he amassed in Jerusalem ,
verse 11 states, "These also King David dedicated to the
LORD..." Giving ten percent to God
was not enough for this leader. One of
the evidences of godliness is generosity.
3. The leader recognized the ultimate judge of all required
him to act justly.
God placed him in this position of leadership to be a
faithful steward of the people. In great
contrast to selfish rulers or corrupt kings, "David administered justice
and equity to all his people." (v.15)
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