And the Lord was With Him!

“The women sang as they played, and said,

‘Saul has slain his thousands,
And David his ten thousands.’

Then Saul became very angry, for this saying displeased him; and he said, ‘They have ascribed to David ten thousands, but to me they have ascribed thousands. Now what more can he have but the kingdom?’ Saul looked at David with suspicion from that day on.

Now it came about on the next day that an evil spirit from God came mightily upon Saul, and he raved in the midst of the house, while David was playing the harp with his hand, as usual; and a spear was in Saul’s hand. Saul hurled the spear for he thought, ‘I will pin David to the wall.’ But David escaped from his presence twice.” 
1 Samuel 18:7-11

“David was prospering in all his ways for the Lord was with him. When Saul saw that he was prospering greatly, he dreaded him. But all Israel and Judah loved David, and he went out and came in before them.”  1 Samuel 18:14-16

After an astounding personal victory, David’s popularity unleashes in King Saul a deadly resentment and jealousy. And although David “had it all,” unlike his own son Absalom some years later, he never attempted to use his position to subvert the rule of King Saul. David lived an exemplary life with such wisdom that the whole nation was drawn to him.

You’ve finally taken an unyielding stand for Christ on the job. People know what you believe. Is there a co-worker or a boss who doesn’t “appreciate” your viewpoint? Is there someone who is mentally or verbally “throwing a javelin” at you? How are you responding? Are you defending your rights? Defending your opinion? Are you becoming angry and resentful?

Take David’s quiet example to heart. Behave wisely in all your ways. This statement portrays David with a sense of confidence (not pride), a deep respect for his superiors, and a mindset which led him to take care of his given responsibilities, faithfully. Don’t miss the underlying theme of David’s life - “and the Lord was with Him.”

Watch for misplaced confidence. Who you trust, when, and for what.