A Long Time Coming

Samuel anointed David king over Israel when David was a teen. Shortly after that, David killed Goliath. Then for the next 13 years or so, David spent his life running from the attacks of Saul. Yet David behaved himself wisely. When David was 30, Saul was killed in battle, and David received the throne. However, only Judah followed David. The northern tribes (called Israel) still followed the house of Saul.

It was 7 ½ years that the kingdom was in division. David ruled patiently, depending on God’s grace and waiting for His timing. Finally, Israel came under his authority. The kingdom was unified. Here is the overview: “David was thirty years old when he began to reign, and he reigned forty years. ⁵ In Hebron he reigned over Judah seven years and six months: and in Jerusalem he reigned thirty and three years over all Israel and Judah” (II Sam. 5:4-5).

The 7 ½ years probably seemed long due to the turmoil, division, and self-will. But O the blessing when the kingdom was reunified! The 33 years of unity was over four times longer than the years of division. Blessing comes from patience, faith, and obedience.

And how wonderful the blessing is! Paul encouraged the saints of Galatia to persist: “And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not” (Gal. 6:9). If you persist in doing right, you will reap great benefits later. It may be difficult now, but later you will be glad you continued. Live by faith and continue.