April 20 – Reading 110

APRIL 20 – Reading 110

by Rev James M. Armpriester, Jr | April 20

“VICTORY THROUGH DEPENDENCE ON GOD”
(2 Samuel 8:1-9:13; 1 Chronicles 18:1-17; Psalm 60:1-12)

“And the Lord gave victory to David wherever he went. So David reigned over all of Israel. And David administered justice and equity to all his people.” — 2 Samuel 8:14-15

As a child, I remember the disdain my mother had for bragging.  She was quick to “adjust” our perspective towards humility.  I also remember my inside response to her rebuke:  “It ain’t bragging if you can back it up!”  Of course, this sardonic phrase did not originate with me, nor did the attitude of pride that begets such a saying.  It finds its beginning in the serpent’s treatise in the Garden of Eden.  Today, this attitude is pervasive and just as destructive as it was for Adam and Eve.

Having grown out of my “smart-mouth junior higher” phase, I now share my mother’s view that humility is key, as it is through humility that God elevates us. Though imperfect, David knew that his victories and kingdoms were not won by his strength but by the Lord’s. Understanding this, he ruled Israel as a shepherd, emphasizing justice and righteousness. He recognized that the same God who granted him victory also called him to lead with integrity.

David’s kingdom was expanding. God had given him victory over his enemies—the Philistines, Moabites, Edomites, and others fell before him (2 Samuel 8:1-14). Everywhere he went, the Lord gave him success. But David never saw these victories as his own accomplishments. He knew where his strength came from.

Psalm 60, written during these battles, reveals David’s heart: “O God, You have rejected us, broken our defenses… But for those who fear You, You have raised a banner to be displayed because of the truth” (Psalm 60:1, 4). Even in moments of struggle, David depended on God. He knew that security came not from military might but from divine favor.

Yet, David did not use his power selfishly. He ruled with justice and equity (2 Samuel 8:15). His victories were not just about conquest but about establishing God’s righteousness in Israel. He understood that a God-given position is a God-given responsibility.

New Testament Connection:

• Luke 1:32-33 — “The Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David… and His kingdom will have no end.” (David’s rule pointed to Jesus, the perfect King who reigns in justice.)
• Matthew 20:26-28 — “Whoever would be great among you must be your servant.” (True leadership is not about power but serving others.)
• John 15:5 — “Apart from Me, you can do nothing.” (David’s victories—and ours—only come through dependence on God.)

Simple Truth:
Success is not measured by victories alone but by how we steward what God gives us. True strength comes not from our power but from dependence on God.

Reflection & Application:

• Are You Acknowledging God’s Role in Your Success? David knew his victories came from the Lord. Do you recognize God as the source of your blessings?
• Are You Leading with Justice and Integrity? Power is a responsibility. How can you use your influence—big or small—to reflect God’s justice?
• Are You Relying on God for Victory? David wrote Psalm 60 in the middle of his battles. Are you seeking God in your struggles or trying to fight them alone?

Closing Prayer…
Father, every victory I have is from You. Keep me from pride and self-reliance. Teach me to lead with integrity and to use what You have given me to bring justice and righteousness. Help me to depend on You in every battle, knowing that true success comes from You alone. In Jesus’ name, Amen.