In this chapter, the Lord continued to give David victories wherever he went. The chapter begins, “After this, David subdued and humbled the Philistines by conquering Gath, their largest city. David also conquered the land of Moab. He made the people lie down on the ground in a row, and he measured them off in groups with a length of rope. He measured off two groups to be executed for every one group to be spared. The Moabites who were spared became David’s servants and brought him tribute money. (2 Samuel 8:1-2)
David also destroyed the forces of Hadadezer and the Arameans, supporting that the Lord gave David victory wherever he went. “When King Toi of Hamath heard that David had destroyed the army of Hadadezer, he sent his son Joram to congratulate David on his success. Hadadezer and Toi had long been enemies, and there had been many wars between them. Joram presented David with many gifts of silver, gold, and bronze. (2 Samuel 8:9-10) David dedicated these gifts, along with all the other plunder from other nations he had conquered, to the Lord.
David became very famous, and after his return he destroyed the Edomites in the Valley of salt. “This was another example of how the Lord made David victorious wherever he went.
David reigned over all Israel and was fair to everyone. Joab son of Zeruiah was commander of the army. Jehoshaphat son of Ahilud was the royal historian. (Nice! Jehoshaphat is my guy! His story in 2 Chronicles is one of my favorites!) Zadok son of Ahitub and Ahimelech son of Abiathar were the priests. Seraiah was the court secretary. Benaiah son of Jehoiada was captain of the King’s bodyguard. David’s sons served as priestly leaders. (2 Samuel 8:14-18)
Lord, thank you for your Word today! Help us honor you, so you will help us be victorious wherever we go. We love you!
May the Lord bless you and protect you. May the Lord smile on you and be gracious to you. May the Lord show you his favor and give you his peace.” (Numbers 6:24-26)
….AND MAY WE ALL PRACTICE THIS WITH ONE ANOTHER.
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