“Now all the people were in a dispute throughout all the tribes of Israel, saying, “The king saved us from the hand of our enemies, he delivered us from the hand of the Philistines, and now he has fled from the land because of Absalom. 10 But Absalom, whom we anointed over us, has died in battle. Now therefore, why do you say nothing about bringing back the king?” 11 So King David sent to Zadok and Abiathar the priests, saying, “Speak to the elders of Judah, saying, ‘Why are you the last to bring the king back to his house, since the words of all Israel have come to the king, to his very house? 12 You are my brethren, you are my bone and my flesh. Why then are you the last to bring back the king?’ 13 And say to Amasa, ‘Are you not my bone and my flesh? God do so to me, and more also, if you are not commander of the army before me continually in place of Joab.’ ” 14 So he swayed the hearts of all the men of Judah, just as the heart of one man, so that they sent this word to the king: “Return, you and all your servants!” 2 Samuel 19:9-14 NKJV
King of Kings,
David was anointed for Kingship by You, Lord God, through Samuel (2 Samuel 16). He was sinfully usurped by Absalom who reigned but was eventually defeated and died. David could just have marched in an proclaimed himself king again. He had every right as anointed and victor in battle. But he did not. He tactfully sought to remind those running the kingdom who he was and what they could become under him. He led he did not manipulate. And he mourned the loss of his wayward son.
David had many faults as a man but he drew the best out of those who followed him. He used to be a shepherd and knew all about getting wandering sheep calmly to the best pasture and safety. And getting them to trust and obey him.
We too have a good Shepherd. And seek to grow to trust in Your care and protection as we follow and go in the direction You call us to. But we like the children of Israel have the choice to make You our Shepherd and our absolute King. To learn You are trustworthy. To help us defeat the enemy. To keep us pure and holy (Hebrews 10:10 NIV). To make us Your family,” I will be a Father to you, and you shall be My sons and daughters (2 Corinthians 6:18 NKJV). Help us ensure You are our only Shepherd, God and King.
In Jesus name we pray, Amen.
Worship Wednesday 15th April 2026
The man of God’s own choosing -verse 2 – and His name was Jesus Christ the Good Shepherd and King of Kings.
A mighty fortress is our God,
a bulwark never failing;
our helper he, amid the flood
of mortal ills prevailing.
For still our ancient foe
does seek to work us woe;
his craft and power are great,
and armed with cruel hate,
on earth is not his equal.
Did we in our own strength confide,
our striving would be losing,
were not the right Man on our side,
the Man of God’s own choosing.
You ask who that may be?
Christ Jesus, it is he;
Lord Sabaoth his name,
from age to age the same;
and he must win the battle.
And though this world, with devils filled,
should threaten to undo us,
we will not fear, for God has willed
his truth to triumph through us.
The prince of darkness grim,
we tremble not for him;
his rage we can endure,
for lo! his doom is sure;
one little word shall fell him.
That Word above all earthly powers
no thanks to them abideth;
the Spirit and the gifts are ours
through him who with us sideth.
Let goods and kindred go,
this mortal life also;
the body they may kill:
God’s truth abideth still;
his kingdom is forever!