David Captures Jerusalem

I Chronicles 11:1–47
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David reigned at Hebron for seven-and-one-half years before the men of Israel asked him to become their king, recognizing his divine appointment (vv. 1-2). David made a covenant with the elders (v. 3) pledging his loyalty to the requirements of the law of Moses (Deut. 17:14-20). Then he marched to Jerusalem. The fortress of Zion was evidently a hill overlooking this Jebusite city which David added to the original settlement. He personally took up residence on Zion (vv. 5-7). David was anointed king of Israel 20 years after Samuel had anointed him (l Samuel 16:1-13). God’s promises are worth waiting for, even when His timetable doesn’t match our expectations. David became a great leader because the Lord was with him (vv. 8-9).  

Joab had been David’s captain at Hebron, and now he won the right to be over the army of all Israel.  He was David’s nephew, son of his half-sister Zeruiah (l Chronicles 2:16). He was the first to enter the Jebusite city of Jerusalem and capture it. This account of Joab’s heroic deed is followed by an extensive list of other mighty men in David’s army and their heroic accomplishments (vv. 10-47). These men “strengthened themselves with him in the kingdom and with all Israel.” Many of them had likely accompanied David in exile and were supportive of him coming to the throne of Judah. These were the most heroic of all David’s warriors. They represent leaders who are faithful, provided by God. The recorded names are practically the only thing we know about them. Thousands in the king’s service are known to their fellow men and millions more lack even a niche in the wall of fame.  However, God has set His seal on them, and the Lord knows those who are His. 

Application

David’s power increased as a direct result of his consistent trust in God. In contrast, Saul’s power decreased because he wanted all the credit for himself and ignored God (l Samuel 15:17-26). When I am more concerned about building a name for myself than in pleasing God, I will lose the very recognition I seek to get just like Saul did.