What can we learn from David's success about God's favor and obedience? Verse in Focus “When Saul saw that David was very successful, he dreaded him.” (1 Samuel 18:15) Observations from the Text • “Very successful” points to repeated victories, not a single lucky break. • Saul’s reaction—fear and dread—highlights that success rooted in God’s favor unsettles those who oppose Him. • The verse sits in a broader narrative (vv. 12–16) that repeatedly says, “The LORD was with David.” Favor and obedience are intertwined throughout. What God’s Favor Looks Like • Visible results: David’s battlefield triumphs could be seen and measured. • Ongoing protection: Even while under Saul’s authority, David could not be thwarted (v. 14). • Growing influence: “All Israel and Judah loved David” (v. 16). Favor isn’t just private blessing; it spills over to public affirmation. • Unexplainable to the carnal mind: Saul “dreaded” what he couldn’t control. How Obedience Positions Us 1. Alignment with God’s heart (Acts 13:22). David’s obedience sprang from genuine devotion. 2. Stewardship of small things (1 Samuel 17:34-37). Faithfulness with sheep prepared him for giants. 3. Humble service (1 Samuel 18:5). He “went out and came in before the people,” carrying out Saul’s missions without complaint. 4. Reliance on the LORD rather than human strategy (Psalm 20:7; Proverbs 21:31). Victory credited to God keeps pride at bay. Lessons for Us Today • Consistent obedience invites consistent favor. God’s blessing is not random; it follows a life yielded to Him (Deuteronomy 28:1-2). • God-given success will sometimes provoke opposition. Expect it, but don’t fear it (John 15:18-19). • The Lord’s presence is the ultimate advantage. Skills matter, but “the battle belongs to the LORD” (1 Samuel 17:47). • Our role: stay submissive, worshipful, and diligent. God takes responsibility for outcomes (1 Peter 5:6). Supporting Scriptures • 1 Samuel 18:14 – “David continued to prosper in all his ways, for the LORD was with him.” • Psalm 5:12 – “Surely You bless the righteous; You surround them with favor like a shield.” • 2 Chronicles 16:9 – “The eyes of the LORD roam to and fro… to show Himself strong on behalf of those whose hearts are fully devoted to Him.” • James 1:25 – “He will be blessed in what he does.” • Proverbs 3:3-4 – Loyalty and faithfulness “will earn you favor and a good name in the sight of God and man.” Putting It Into Practice • Examine daily choices: Are they rooted in a desire to honor God or to impress people? • Cultivate unseen faithfulness: private worship, integrity, and servanthood prepare us for public victory. • Stay dependent: Regularly credit successes to the LORD, reinforcing humility and inviting continued favor. • Persevere amid opposition: Resistance often confirms you’re on the path of obedience; keep moving forward in confidence that the LORD is with you. |
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