In what ways can we show similar devotion to God in our lives? Setting the Scene “So the three broke through the Philistine lines, drew water from the well near the gate of Bethlehem, and brought it to David; but David would not drink it. Instead, he poured it out to the LORD.” (1 Chronicles 11:18) What Devotion Looked Like Then • The three warriors risked their lives to satisfy their king’s longing. • David honored their sacrifice by turning the water into an offering, declaring only God worthy of such a price (v. 19). • Their combined actions show wholehearted loyalty, self-denial, and worship. Lessons from the Three • Courageous Obedience – They acted immediately, without calculating personal loss (cf. Joshua 1:9). • Costly Service – True devotion often demands danger, time, or resources (John 15:13). • Unity of Purpose – They moved together for one aim, reflecting the power of shared faith (Ecclesiastes 4:12). Lessons from David • Recognizing Holiness – David refused to treat something purchased with blood as common (Hebrews 9:22). • Redirected Honor – He redirected glory from himself to the Lord (Psalm 115:1). • Worship through Surrender – Pouring the water showed that even legitimate desires bow to God (Philippians 2:17). Living It Out Today 1. Offer Your Best, Not Leftovers • Schedule time with God first (Mark 1:35). • Give financially off the top, not after expenses (Proverbs 3:9). 2. Embrace Sacrificial Love • Serve where needs are great, even when unnoticed (Colossians 3:23-24). • Forgive at a personal cost (Ephesians 4:32). 3. Live Courageously for Truth • Stand firm when biblical convictions clash with culture (Acts 5:29). • Share the gospel despite potential rejection (Romans 1:16). 4. Redirect Praise • Celebrate achievements by publicly thanking God (Psalm 34:1-3). • Use talents to spotlight Christ, not self (1 Peter 4:10-11). 5. Practice Daily Surrender • Start mornings with Romans 12:1—“offer your bodies as living sacrifices.” • End days by asking, “Did I pour out my life today for the Lord?” (2 Timothy 4:6). Encouraging Scriptures to Fuel Our Devotion • Mark 12:30 – “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart…” • Luke 9:23 – “If anyone wants to come after Me, he must deny himself…” • Colossians 3:17 – “Whatever you do… do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus.” • Psalm 116:12-14 – “How can I repay the LORD for all His goodness to me? I will… fulfill my vows to the LORD.” |
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