Victory's Aftermath

Prepare: What fruit does my life bear?
Read: 1 Samuel 17:55-18:16

After the great victory, David received two kinds of response. The King's son, Jonathan took to David instantly. "The soul of Jonathan was knit to the soul of David". 1 Sam 18:1. Jonathan saw how passionate he was about the living God and how he had killed the giant. Jonathan knew in his heart that God was with David (vs 14). He removed his robe and gave it to David along with his own armour, sword, bow and belt acknowledging that David was the next anointed king. When God's spirit rules our hearts, there will be no jealousy, anger or competition. It is only filled with love of Christ which transcends all barriers.

The second response was from King Saul himself. Saul was happy about David because David was able to get rid of the giant. He gave him a position as promised. When the women appreciated David more than Saul, the fire of jealousy was kindled in Saul. He tried to kill David. God's Spirit had departed from Saul. He knew in his heart that God was with David, and so was fearful of him.

When we move away from God, we invite the spirit of flesh to control our behaviour, speech and thoughts. It is harmful to self and others. Let us introspect on what controls us.

Respond: Lord, we yield ourselves to the control of Your Spirit. Help us to bear the fruit of the Holy Spirit in our daily life. Amen.