Credit Where Credit is Due

Scripture

2 Samuel 8:6 (HCSB Strong's)

Then he placed garrisons in Aram of Damascus, and the Arameans became David’s subjects and brought tribute. The Lord made David victorious wherever he went.

Observation

Twice in this chapter (8:6 and 8:14) the Bible states that "the Lord made David victorious wherever he went".  The savior of Israel, the One to whom the credit was due for the kingdom coming together, was God - NOT David.  God had promised earlier that David would have rest from all those around him (7:1 and 7:11); and He was now fulfilling that promise.

As I ponder these words this morning, I think of the "success", the "victories" that are in my life.  It is all too easy to use the word "I" -  "I" found a good partner for life; "I" worked hard; "I" got a good education; "I" found a good job; "I" did a good job laying aside for the future; "I" am doing well in God's kingdom, in the work He send my way; "I", "I", "I".  But, then I think of all the divine appointments God has made for me over the years (many I know I have missed).  The divine appointment made for me that brought Sue into my life, one through whom a LOT of the good flows; the divine appointment(s) made for me in my career that led me to this place; the divine appointment(s) made for me to know the men of God that I have known, by whom I have been mentored - so many; the divine appointment(s) made for me to be of service in God's kingdom.  And on and on and on it goes.

There is no doubt in my mind - God deserves the credit.  Just as the writer of 2 Samuel says here, God has given me "victory" wherever I have gone.  That doesn't mean it has all been easy; but it has all been of Him, from Him.  To Him be all the glory, honor, and praise.

Application

I should always be of the mind that my very life comes from the Father, and should give him all glory, honor, and praise.