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KINGLY

As king, David was feared by his enemies and famous among the people in the realm. We see why because of the context of the chapter, beginning in the eighth verse. David’s enemies, the Philistines, heard he was king and raided the Valley of Rephaim. David inquired of YHVH God, first and foremost, asking, “Shall I go up against the Philistines?” (1 Chr 14:10a). This was prophetic of the submissive ministry of Christ. Jesus ever and only did exactly what the heavenly Father desired of His obedient Son at any particular moment during His life on earth. Then David asked, “Will you give them into my hand?” (1 Chr 14:10b). YHVH God spoke, and as sure as sugar is sweet, David struck them down (1 Chr 14:10c-12). Again, Israel’s enemies rose up (1 Chr 14:13) and David inquired again; however, God gave specific instructions to outflank his foes (1 Chr 14:14-15). In David’s obedience, he struck down the Philistines from Gibeon to Gezer (1 Chr 14:16).

Without a doubt, this was prophetic of our Lord Jesus in His earthly ministry, as well as in His heavenly ministry as our King of kings, subduing both His and our enemies (1 Cor 15:25). Moreover, our mission on earth until the Lord Jesus returns or calls us home is to make Jesus famous in all lands. Yet, there is also a fame and fear we should delight in and desire— not upon earth, but in the unseen spiritual realm. Because you serve Christ, inquire of Him, and are obedient to His commands, are you feared by the demonic enemies of Christ? —feared by rulers, authorities, cosmic powers, and spiritual forces of evil in heavenly places (Eph 6:12)? Likewise, as you emulate David in his 1 Chronicles 14:8-17 behavior, has your fame gone out unto all Christ’s heavenly host? May the Lord, by His grace, grant us this wonderful, eternal witness.

As David did go forth to fight,
He first did ask the Lord;
His victories were true and right
By trusting in God’s Word.

Online Bible Audio/Readings Links (ESV)

11/19 Reading Portions: 1 Chronicles 13-14; James 1; Amos 8; Luke 3