1 Samuel_18

Scripture 1 Samuel 18:23But David said, “Do you think it is a small matter to become the king’s son-in-law? I’m only a poor man and little known.”Observation - What does it say?Saul intended to give David his daughter in marriage, and ordered his attendants to encourage David to marry her. However, David was hesitant. Not because she was ugly or annoying, but because he didn't feel worthy of marrying royalty.Understanding - What does it mean?God exalts the humble.David amazes me! He had killed Goliath and in turn saved a nation, the people sang songs about him, exalting him above the king, he led troops into battle and was victorious every time, everyone loved him (except Saul), he succeeded at everything he did (see 1 Samuel 18:14) and the princess was in love with him.With all this, how did David not get prideful? He was the man! Most men in his position would not hesitate to marry her. In all their success most men would feel entitled to have whoever they wanted, and probably be eyeing the throne as well. But not David. He experienced time and again the truth of Jesus’ words, long before they were uttered:Matthew 23:12 …those who humble themselves will be exalted.The only way David could respond that way to Saul’s attendants, after experiencing so much fame and success, is because he recognized that God was behind it all. It wasn’t his gifts, strengths, talents or wisdom that led to his exalting. He approached every challenge the same way he approached Goliath, in the name of the Lord. And when he succeeded he gave the glory to God. Life ApplicationBe humble! Recognize anything good that has come from me or through me has been 100% initiated and carried out by God.God is moving in our church. He is going to be using you and me in more and more ways and will increase our influence and favor. He is with us, as he was with David, and so we can expect to find success at the things we’re putting our hands to. After every victory, every success, every compliment, it’s so important that the next time we are alone with God, we get on our knees and give God the glory for all of it.- Levi Thompson