Character & Integrity
“Now therefore, let your hands be strengthened, and be valiant; for your master Saul is dead, and also the house of Judah has anointed me king over them.” - 2 Samuel 2:7
David had been anointed king by the house of Judah, but the men of Jabesh Gilead did not know, so David told them. This is very important. Look what he said, “…let your hands be strengthened, and be valiant; for your master Saul is dead, …” Because of their loyalty to Saul, David was asking for God’s blessing upon them, for God to strengthen them.
Along with the blessing for the men of Jabesh Gilead, David was seeking support from them. Just as they were loyal to Saul, David was seeking their loyalty, as he takes the position of king of Israel.
As a leader, David was very wise. He saw the strength and faithfulness of these men, and he sought to have them on his side. He sought to be in agreement with men of good character, men who stood by the man who had rescued them in the past. They were faithful to Saul unto his death.
This is an important lesson for each one of us. Who do you seek to stand in agreement with? Who do you make friends with? Who do you confide in? Each one of us, individually, needs to look at the people we surround ourselves with.
Whether you are a leader or a follower, the people you call friends and partners should be men and women of good character and integrity. If you choose friends wisely, they will stand by you and be faithful to you when the enemy comes against you.
All men are good company in fair weather; but the storms of life prove spiritual character.
~Maurice Roberts~
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