Successful
When David had finished speaking to
Saul, the soul of Jonathan was bound to the soul of David, and Jonathan loved
him as his own soul. Saul took him that day and would not let him return to his
father’s house. Then Jonathan made a covenant with David, because he loved him
as his own soul. Jonathan stripped himself of the robe that he was wearing, and
gave it to David, and his armor, and even his sword and his bow and his belt.
David went out and was successful wherever Saul sent him; as a result, Saul set
him over the army. And all the people, even the servants of Saul, approved.
1 Samuel
18:1-5
The phrase “highly esteemed” has
suggested an unusual respect that people gave David. He was honored by all
people, but more significantly he was highly respected by those in Saul’s court
who were impressed by his noble character.
As Christians come to know Jesus
through obedience to His Word, they will begin to display qualities of
character that set them apart from others, for true wisdom is to live like
Christ. It is more than common sense; it is uncommon behavior.
David’s experience can be our own
experience. God’s promise to him is also true for believers today. We are told
that we will be instructed and will be told the way to go. Count on it. Behave
wisely and the wisdom of God will come through in your own life.
Our character
is only as strong as our behavior.