What role does God's presence play in achieving success today? Setting the Scene • In 1 Samuel 18, David has just defeated Goliath and entered Saul’s service. • Humanly speaking, he is a young shepherd‐turned‐soldier with no royal pedigree. • Yet 1 Samuel 18:14 records the secret behind his meteoric rise: “And David continued to succeed in all his ways, for the LORD was with him.” Success Redefined by Scripture • The Bible never treats success as luck, clever strategy, or sheer grit. • Success = moving forward in the purpose God has assigned, empowered by His presence. • David’s victories, favor with people, and growing influence flowed directly from the Lord’s nearness, not mere talent. The Promise of Presence • God’s presence is a covenant reality for His people. – Genesis 39:2 about Joseph: “The LORD was with Joseph, and he became a prosperous man.” – Joshua 1:8-9: prosperity and courage are tied to the assurance “the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.” – Psalm 1:3 pictures the one who delights in God’s word as a fruitful tree “in all that he does, he prospers.” • In every case, Scripture links success to the Lord Himself walking with His servant. Walking in the Presence Today • Through the finished work of Christ, God now indwells believers by His Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19). • The indwelling Spirit applies the same pattern seen in David’s life: – Guidance (Romans 8:14) – Strength (Ephesians 3:16) – Favor before people when it serves His purposes (Proverbs 3:4) • John 15:5 sets the New Testament framework: “Apart from Me you can do nothing.” Connection to Christ is the indispensable source of lasting fruit. How God’s Presence Drives Real-World Success • Direction: He charts the course, sparing us wasted effort. • Protection: He shields from unseen dangers, as with David evading Saul’s spears. • Empowerment: He supplies abilities beyond natural capacity—courage, creativity, endurance. • Credibility: Others recognize His stamp on our lives, opening doors we could never force. • Peace: Inner assurance frees us from anxiety, allowing steady, focused service. Practical Takeaways 1. Stay Word-Saturated – David “meditated day and night” on God’s law (Psalm 1); success follows delight in Scripture. 2. Cultivate Conscious Fellowship – Simple, continual conversation with the Lord keeps the heart aligned. 3. Obey Promptly – God’s presence is most clearly enjoyed on the path of obedience (John 14:23). 4. Trust His Timing – David waited years before the throne; success unfolds on God’s schedule. 5. Measure by Faithfulness – Results belong to God; our part is steadfast faith and obedience. Verses to Meditate On • 1 Samuel 18:14 – “David continued to succeed in all his ways, for the LORD was with him.” • Matthew 6:33 – “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” • Philippians 4:13 – “I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.” • Psalm 90:17 – “May the favor of the Lord our God rest upon us; establish for us the work of our hands.” |
    |