A life’s calling unfolds gradually – 19 July 2021
By Ewald Schmidt
Bible text(s)
David was anointed as the king of Israel while still a boy. For the next 20 years, he was aware of his calling and destiny in life. But he still needed to grow into this role, to be ready when the day arrived. The book of 1 Kings ends where King Saul and his sons die on the field of battle against the Philistines at Gilboa. In 2 Kings 1, David laments the deaths of Saul, the Lord’s anointed king, and his best friend, Jonathan.
The Lord sends David and his loyal followers to Hebron, in the region of the tribe of Judah. There the local inhabitants crown him as the king of their tribe. It looks like the realisation of his destiny, but this was only for the tribe of Judah. Saul’s general over the army, Abner, crowned Saul’s surviving son. Ish-Bohseth, as the king of Israel in his father’s place. In 2 Samuel 2:10, it says, “Ish-Bosheth son of Saul was forty years old when he became king over Israel, and he reigned two years. The tribe of Judah, however, remained loyal to David. The length of time David was king in Hebron over Judah was seven years and six months.”
Being a leader demands great patience and a lot of endurance. A leader can be aware of his or her life’s mission at a young age. When the Lord calls you to do great things; it is not bound to be easy. A great destiny in life also does not come at once. In the school of life, one needs to learn humility. Your character needs to be formed, that you may be worthy of the task that God has entrusted you with in life. The ladder of success must be climbed one step at a time. Learn from David. Do not be discouraged. Trust in God, and keep on doing the right thing every day. Pay attention to the small detail that crosses your path, be faithful in small things. Then, when the day comes, you will be ready to do big things for God.
Prayer: Lord, thank you that you have my life in your hands. Thank you that you are never late with your planning. Even when it seems as though nothing is happening, you are still Lord and King, working out your plan in my life. Help me to trust in you. Help me to be faithful in every day’s tasks, that my life may bring you honour. Amen
