Written By Ben Dankaka
Meditation – 2 Samuel 22:47-49
The young David had just killed Goliath. News about him spread all over his country because he had just killed the most feared man. Goliath had frightened everyone, including Saul, the king of Israel. Goliath is described as a champion, who was over nine feet tall. He was clothed with bronze and armed with a huge weapon. What’s more, he had a big mouth. But despite his admirable endowments, Goliath was killed by a shepherd boy who only had a sling and a stone. Who wouldn’t want to share that kind of inspiring story? But as David’s fame grew, some women from all the towns of Israel suddenly popped up with a song.
“Saul has slain his thousands and David his tens of thousands,” They sang. It was this song that caused the rift between Saul and David. The Scripture says that “from that time on, Saul kept a jealous eye on David.” Because of that song, David eventually found himself on exile, away from the very country he rescued. King Saul, the man whom David saved from embarrassment became his enemy because of the women’s song. The negative impact that the song had on David extended to other kingdoms. When David fled from Saul and sought refuge in Gath, the country of king Achish, his servants reminded him that he was dealing with David; a man whom they sang about. To save his life, David had to act like a mad man while he was with king Achish (1 Samuel 21:10-15).
What David went through can happen to anyone who is on a leadership journey. There are times that you might achieve something remarkable while you are pursuing your dreams. That achievement may not be your ultimate goal. It may be a temporary promotion. But because the achievement is outstanding, the people around you might get excited about it and then celebrate you prematurely. Their celebration may be too loud and early. It might be at a time you are unprepared for the attention it will bring. Those who celebrate you might innocently get you into trouble by drawing too much attention.
Their praises and recognition might attract enemies you didn’t know existed. It might also create enemies who didn’t know you existed. Because they feel threatened by your achievements they would all come out and do everything it takes to stop you from going further. This kind of situation can be tough. It can also distract you and even make you lose focus. Instead of continuing your journey, you might find yourself stuck, trying to survive or fight back. As a result, your ultimate goal may be on suspension. If you ever find yourself in that kind of state, do what David did. Stay close to God. God has a way of turning obstacles into stepping stones.
Prayer: Lord, turn my obstacles into stepping stones.
REFERENCES/FURTHER STUDY: 1 Samuel 18: 6-9; 1 Samuel 21:10-15;
Unless otherwise stated all scripture quotations are from the Holy Bible, New International Version.