Dedication for David

Scripture

¹⁷ David longed for water and said, “Oh, that someone would get me a drink of water from the well near the gate of Bethlehem!” ¹⁸ So the Three broke through the Philistine lines, drew water from the well near the gate of Bethlehem and carried it back to David. But he refused to drink it; instead, he poured it out to the LORD. ¹⁹“God forbid that I should do this!” he said. “Should I drink the blood of these men who went at the risk of their lives?” Because they risked their lives to bring it back, David would not drink it. (1 Chronicles 11:17-19)

Observation

I am very impressed with the dedication of David’s 30 mighty warriors who formed his principal guard. These men would do anything for David – even run the gauntlet for a cup of water.

I don’t think that David actually wanted the cup of water; I think he was daydreaming and remembering the well that had been taken by the Philistines. He said out loud – more to himself than to any other, “I wish I could have just one cup of water from that well that has been lost.” Their service to David, being what it was, three of these mighty fighting men got up and risked life itself to bring back a cup of this water. Now that is dedication!

Because David recognizes the sacrifice that it took for these three (and maybe to dissuade others from attempting the same thing) he refuses to drink the water. Instead he pours it out as an offering to the LORD. This thing that he dreamed of – he gives back to God with thanksgiving – a beautiful picture of worship!

Application

I want to lead like David: so inspiring people that they are willing to go to whatever end to accomplish the task. I would hope that my desires and directions wouldn’t be as capricious as asking for a cup of imported water – but their dedication to David says a lot about what kind of leader he was.

Prayer

Dear Lord, I ask that you would continue to develop the leadership gifts that you have given me. Let me be a leader like David so that I bring out the best in those around me. Give me wisdom to know what to ask for – and what desires to think about, pray about, but not say out loud. Amen.