May 4, 2017. 2 Samuel 5:11-6:23 1 Chronicles 13-16.

Today’s reading is lengthy, with portions repeated in II Samuel and I Chronicles. These chapters chronicle the beginning of David’s reign as king. There are many pieces that are being aligned and readied for his kingdom to run at full capacity. Resources, lives, customs, practices and mindsets are all being put in order. Just look at some of the things David put in order early in his reign.

Building materials are gathered. Additional troops are gathered. Strategic battles are fought and won. David also takes steps to return the Ark of God. Great intention, but his first attempt was wrongly executed and cost a man his life. David learned, made changes to the way things were going to be done and successfully brought the Ark home.

David celebrated, unashamed. Singularly motivated with pleasing God, and unencumbered by fear of what anyone might think of him. He even began a new practice for the nation of Israel; he instituted choirs.

 

1 Chron. 16:7 At that time David began the custom of using choirs in the Tabernacle to sing thanksgiving to the Lord.

 

It is an amazing and interesting read to see a new kingdom birthed. But how does something like this even happen? How did David know what to do? How did he get others to join him? What made his kingdom succeed where others could not?

Today, the questions may be more like, how do you get things rolling in your business? How do you put life into that idea or dream that you have? How do you make something out of the opportunity that is before you? The answer could very well be found by making the same discovery that David did as he stood before this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

 

2 Sam. 5:12 David now realized why the Lord had made him the king and blessed his kingdom so greatly—it was because God wanted to pour out his kindness on Israel, his chosen people.

1 Chron. 14:2 David now realized why the Lord had made him king and why he had made his kingdom so great; it was for a special reason—to give joy to God’s people!

 

When the bad things happen you ask, “why me? Why this? Why now?” but rarely are those questions entertained when something good, profitable or positive presents itself. But when David realized why the Lord was affording this great opportunity to him, that is when God allowed the pieces to begin to fall into place. Obstacles were removed. Provisions were made. People joined the cause. Strategies for victory and removal of obstacles were given. All because of these words, this truth; “David now realized why the Lord had made him king…”

When you realize why God has given you an opportunity, that is when He can bless that opportunity. God’s opportunities presented to you are not for you. They are for others to experience God’s kindness through that opportunity entrusted to you. Christ lived His life for you, and He was rewarded and you can benefit. 

Live in a way that others would know and experience God’s kindness through your life.  Ask the question; “Why has God blessed me and given me this opportunity?”