1 Chronicles 12 : It Was Not Accomplished Alone
1 Chronicles 12 <It Was Not Accomplished Alone>
1. These were the men who came to David at Ziklag, while he was banished from the presence of Saul son of Kish (they were among the warriors who helped him in battle)
18. "We are yours, David! We are with you, son of Jesse! Success, success to you, and success to those who help you, for your God will help you." So David received them and made them leaders of his raiding bands.
◇ As I read through chapter 12, I find myself reflecting anew on David's life. What moved and inspired me was how David always kept God at the center of his life, how he immediately fell to his knees in repentance when he recognized his wrongs, and his constant desire to walk with God. I had always believed it was this kind of life that enabled him to establish the kingdom of David.
But that wasn't the whole story. David didn't accomplish it alone. He had many allies. He received tremendous help. When he was fleeing from Saul, wandering through the wilderness, warriors from various tribes sought him out to stand with him and support him. Chapter 12 honors these supporters by calling them "warriors" and listing them by name. But were these the only ones who helped David? Beyond these, there must have been countless unnamed allies who stood with him.
The kingdom of David was not built by David alone. It was established through the combined efforts of renowned warriors and countless ordinary people helping one another. And it was possible because God was with them, helping them.
Nothing is accomplished by me alone. Everything is achieved together with the helpers God has placed beside me. This too is God's help.
"I lift up my eyes to the mountains—where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth." Psalm 121
♧ Good and gracious God, help me to value my co-workers and collaborate with them. Keep me from falling into arrogance, self-righteousness, and pride. Help me never to forget that all things come from You, and to live each day with gratitude. Holy Spirit, make me strong and courageous. Amen.