Getting to Know . . . 2 Samuel (chapter 5) Anointed as King and Specific Military Instructions!

In our text this morning, we see David assume the kingship.
David makes a covenant with the elders of Israel at Hebron and he is anointed king over Israel at age 30. He reigns for 40 years.

The Jebusites in Jerusalem mock David as he prepares to attack them. “You will not get in here; even the blind and the lame can ward you off” (v. 6). David captured the fortress of Zion which is the City of David. David uses those words — “the blind and lame” — to challenge his men to conquer the Jebusites.

David takes up residence in the fortress, building it up, and he became more and more powerful “because the Lord God Almighty was with him” (v. 10). The king of Tyre Hiram builds a palace for David. We then read, “Then David knew that the Lord had established him as king over Israel and had exalted his kingdom for the sake of his people Israel” (v. 12).

David takes more concubines and wives in Jerusalem and has more children (their eleven names are given). The Philistines go in full force to search for David who inquires of the Lord: “Shall I go and attack the Philistines? Will you deliver them into my hands?” (v. 19). The Lord tells David, “Go, for I will surely deliver the Philistines into your hands.”

David defeats the Philistines, saying “As the waters break out, the Lord has broken out against my enemies before me.” (v. 20). The Philistines abandon their idols there and David’s men carry them off.

Again the Philistines prepare to attack and the Lord tells David, “Do not go straight up, but circle around behind them and attack them in front of the poplar trees. 24 As soon as you hear the sound of marching in the tops of the poplar trees, move quickly, because that will mean the Lord has gone out in front of you to strike the Philistine army.” (vv. 23-24).

David obeys the Lord’s instructions and defeats the Philistines all the way from Gibeon to Gezer.

Some takeaways for me:
1. To have the Lord “with” you means His support and encouragement and strength. David becomes more and more powerful “because the Lord God Almighty was with him” (v. 10). I want the Lord’s presence in my life also!
2. The Lord points out David’s taking more wives (and concubines) without commentary. And God leads David (very specifically) and his army in their battle plans.
3. I want the Lord to go “before” me in my battles.  Whatever battle I am facing today!