Topical Bible: David: King of Israel: Prospered of God

◄ David: King of Israel: Prospered of God ►

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David, the son of Jesse, is one of the most prominent figures in the Bible, known for his multifaceted role as a shepherd, warrior, poet, and king. His life and reign are chronicled primarily in the books of 1 and 2 Samuel, 1 Kings, and 1 Chronicles. David's account is a testament to God's providence and favor, as he rose from humble beginnings to become the second king of Israel, a man after God's own heart (1 Samuel 13:14).

Anointed by God

David's journey to kingship began when the prophet Samuel, under God's direction, anointed him as the future king of Israel while he was still a young shepherd boy (1 Samuel 16:12-13). This divine selection set David apart, marking him as God's chosen leader for His people. Despite his youth and the presence of his older brothers, God saw in David a heart that was aligned with His purposes.

Defeater of Goliath

David's faith and reliance on God were evident early in his life, most famously demonstrated in his battle against Goliath, the Philistine giant. Armed only with a sling and his unwavering trust in God, David declared, "The LORD who delivered me from the paw of the lion and the paw of the bear will deliver me from the hand of this Philistine" (1 Samuel 17:37). His victory over Goliath not only showcased his courage but also solidified his reputation as a leader blessed by God.

King of Israel

After the death of King Saul, David ascended to the throne, first ruling over Judah and later becoming the king of all Israel (2 Samuel 5:3-5). His reign was marked by military conquests, the unification of the tribes of Israel, and the establishment of Jerusalem as the political and spiritual center of the nation. David's success as king was attributed to God's favor, as the Lord was with him in all his endeavors (2 Samuel 5:10).

Covenant with God

One of the most significant aspects of David's life was the covenant God made with him, promising that his descendants would establish an everlasting kingdom (2 Samuel 7:12-16). This Davidic Covenant is foundational to the biblical narrative, as it points to the coming of the Messiah, Jesus Christ, who is often referred to as the Son of David.

A Man of Worship

David's deep relationship with God is also reflected in his contributions to the Book of Psalms. As a poet and musician, David expressed his devotion, repentance, and reliance on God through psalms that continue to inspire worship and prayer. His psalms reveal a heart that sought after God, even amidst personal failures and trials.

Challenges and Repentance

Despite his prosperity and favor, David's life was not without sin and its consequences. His adultery with Bathsheba and the subsequent murder of her husband Uriah (2 Samuel 11) were grave sins that brought turmoil to his household. However, David's response to the prophet Nathan's rebuke demonstrated his genuine repentance and desire for restoration with God (2 Samuel 12:13). His penitential psalm, Psalm 51, remains a powerful expression of contrition and the seeking of God's mercy.

Legacy

David's legacy as a king prospered by God is enduring. He is remembered not only for his military and political achievements but also for his heart for God and his role in the messianic lineage. His life exemplifies the complexities of human nature and the boundless grace of God, who prospers those who seek Him earnestly.

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2 Samuel 5:10
And David went on, and grew great, and the LORD God of hosts was with him.
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1 Chronicles 11:9
So David waxed greater and greater: for the LORD of hosts was with him.
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Library

Hezekiah
... since the time of Solomon the son of David king of Israel ... Throughout all Judah" the
king "wrought that ... and prospered." "He trusted in the Lord God of Israel, . ...
/.../white/the story of prophets and kings/chapter 28 hezekiah.htm

The Reign of Saul.
... God and was deposed while David identified himself ... were called together at Mizpah
and proclaimed him king. ... The oppression of Israel's enemies which in part at ...
/.../tidwell/the bible period by period/chapter x the reign of.htm

The Kingdom Op Judah.
... armed, and the people were shown their little king. ... The Syrians made alliance with
Israel, and terribly ravaged ... great blessing of the House of David, that the ...
//christianbookshelf.org/yonge/the chosen people/lesson vii the kingdom op.htm

Note F. --Chap. xviii the Whole Heart
... and all thy soul." vi.4, 5: "Hear, O Israel, the Lord ... David (1 Kings 14:8): "My servant
David, who followed ... There was no king like him, that turned to the Lord ...
/.../christianbookshelf.org/murray/the two covenants/note f chap xviii the whole.htm

The End
... on its inheritance, the last king of David's line was ... The king of Babylon did not
go in person, but ... The terms on which Israel prospered and held its land were ...
//christianbookshelf.org/maclaren/expositions of holy scripture g/the end.htm

The Saint's Heritage and Watchword
... Thou thyself shalt be hanged on thine own gallows, and the race of David shall revenge
the ... I am the LORD, your Holy One, the creator of Israel, your King. ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 50 1904/the saints heritage and watchword.htm

Solomon
... the reign of David and Solomon, Israel became strong ... Solomon was anointed and proclaimed
king in the closing years of his father David, who abdicated ...
/.../white/the story of prophets and kings/chapter 1 solomon.htm

The Rending of the Kingdom
... a few inglorious years, during which the king "did evil ... and was buried in the City
of David: and Abijah ... early in Rehoboam's reign the glory of Israel began to ...
/.../white/the story of prophets and kings/chapter 6 the rending of.htm

The Call of David.
... God to be His special servant,"to be a prophet, a king, a psalmist ... 1. David was the
son of a Bethlehemite, one among the families of Israel, with nothing ...
/.../newman/parochial and plain sermons vol viii/sermon iv the call of.htm

Temporal Advantages.
... and mortifications after coming to the throne of Israel; and who ... All we are told
is, that "King Solomon loved many ... his God, as was the heart of David his father ...
/.../newman/parochial and plain sermons vol vii/sermon v temporal advantages.htm