David’s Victories

1 Chron. 18:1-17

“The Lord gave David victory wherever he went” (6b, 13b)

This passage describes David’s victories and the spoils of war he received. David subdued the Philistines, one of Israel’s greatest enemies. He took Gath the hometown of Goliath and all its surrounding territory. David also defeated the Moabites who once tried to seduce the men of Israel with Moabite foxy women. David also defeated Hadadezer king of Zobah, in the vicinity of Hamath. Victory after victory, David became a mighty conqueror. But the author gives the credit to God. He says, “The Lord gave David victory wherever he went” (6b, 13b).

The Lord gives victory. The battle belongs to the Lord. Although David was a mighty warrior, his victories came from the Lord who was with him. Whatever battle I am facing today, the Lord is my victory. He is the One I look to for strength and comfort and victory in my daily battles. I was troubled by someone, a coworker, who has a very strong character and says whatever they like. Then today I had a severe toothache. In my pain, I cried out to God. I took pain killer and wore an ice pack but the real relief came when I came to God in prayer. I experienced victory over my inner pain and outer pain in the Lord. The Lord is my victory. I am reminded of Paul’s words: “No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.” Praise Jesus who suffered the pain of the cross and of separation from God for my sins! Praise the Lord who still gives victories today!

As I ponder this more in the context of church and NT thought, I realized that the victory is in loving God and loving one another. The battle is to love one another as Jesus loved us (Jn 13:34). When we learn to love one another that is the victory.

Lord, grant us victory in all our battles today. Thank you for your love that is unchanging. Help me to learn how to love and be more than a conqueror just by remembering your love, loving you with all my being and loving others with your love. May we love one another in our church today. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

One Word: Victory in Jesus!