In 1 Samuel 30, we find the story of David and his men coming to Ziklag, only to find the city plundered and their families taken captive. David’s men, heartbroken, turn to blaming their leader for this misfortune. Until this point, David has responded to crisis by acting insane, going after others, and similar actions.

This time, though, he does something that finally qualifies him to be the king that Israel needs. Verse 6 says, “But David strengthened himself in the Lord his God.”

Instead of taking matters into his own hands, going off on everybody, or walking out the door, he finally passed the trust test. David what he knew God wanted him to do—turn to Him. You see, everyone wants to live at the top of the mountain; but growth occurs while you’re climbing it. If we’re not willing to do the work of growth, we can’t be surprised when we aren’t maturing and advancing.

See, we have a certain position or destination in our sights, but God’s looking at our character. My prayer is constantly, “Lord, don’t let me gift take me where my character can’t keep me.” The biggest thing on God’s mind was David’s heart, and building his character. That’s why the Bible says, “He’s a man after my own heart.” He’s a man that ultimately—even when he failed—wasn’t just representing himself; he turned to God.

God is more concerned with your character than your position! Why? Because we are meant to represent Him! The biggest thing on God’s mind is our heart. Will you trust Him with yours?

Live Big!

Dr. Derek Grier