Seeking the Lord’s guidance

David was chosen by the Lord to be the next king of Israel. However, that did not mean he simply sat and waited for it to come to pass. Because he knew that the Lord had a plan, he devoted himself fully to obeying Him. This principle also applies to the Christian life. We have been chosen, loved, and promised eternal life. Therefore, we commit our lives to following the Lord faithfully. (1) Now that Saul had died, it was necessary to take the next step. David sought the Lord’s guidance. (2) David used the Urim and Thummim. This method provided only a “Yes” or “No” answer, so it required asking multiple questions repeatedly to receive clear direction. (3) The Lord directed David to Hebron, the central city of the tribe of Judah and the town where the tomb of his ancestor Abraham was located. (4) David went up to Hebron, taking with him his two wives, Ahinoam and Abigail, along with his men and their families, and they settled in the surrounding towns.

The anointing

The people of Hebron welcomed David and his followers. (1) The elders of Hebron anointed David as king. This was the second anointing, following the one by the prophet Samuel. (2) However, at this time, David was only king over the “house of Judah.” It would still be some time before he became king over all of Israel. (3) From this time on, Hebron became the capital of David’s kingdom. (4) Thus, David became king over the house of Judah. However, from the perspective of the Philistines, he was still nothing more than a “puppet king” under the influence of the king of Gath. If that had not been the case, the Philistines, who possessed overwhelming military strength, would have immediately invaded Hebron. David had been anointed by Samuel and received the Spirit of the Lord more than ten years ago. By the time he was anointed in Hebron, he was 30 years old. The Lord’s vessels are not formed overnight. It is patience that cultivates our character and faith. Let us also learn to exercise patience.