THE SECRET OF SUCCESS

October 30, 2024

THE SECRET OF SUCCESS


"David became greater and greater, for the Lord of hosts was with him." (1 Chronicles 11:9)

David became the greatest leader of his day and the greatest king in Israel’s history. The list of his exploits, beginning with the defeat of the 9-foot Goliath as a young shepherd boy to the conquering of the land and the establishment of an enduring kingdom, is unbelievable. But there is a simple but profound explanation.

“For the Lord of hosts was with him.” (Vs. 9)

That’s it. God + 1 = a Majority.

The most beautiful aspect of this successful life and the reason David endured and prospered for so long was that David understood this. There was no pride or hubris on David’s part. He knew where his strength lay. The Psalms, penned under Divine inspiration but through a humble David, give us David’s heart. Listen to just one song, Psalm 16, that springs from David’s humble dependence.

2         I said to the Lord, “You are my Lord; I have no good besides You.”
            ---
5         The Lord is the portion of my inheritance and my cup; You support my lot.
6         The lines have fallen to me in pleasant places; Indeed, my heritage is beautiful to me.
7         I will bless the Lord who has counseled me; Indeed, my mind instructs me in the night.
8         I have set the Lord continually before me; Because He is at my right hand, I will not be shaken.
9         Therefore my heart is glad and my glory rejoices; My flesh also will dwell securely.
10       For You will not abandon my soul to Sheol; Nor will You allow Your Holy One to undergo decay.
11       You will make known to me the path of life; In Your presence is fullness of joy;
In Your right hand there are pleasures forever.

 

Scholars say the admonition “Fear not!” is mentioned over 300 times in the Bible, and there is a reason. Another phrase is equally prominent in God’s Word to us: “With us.” God’s greatest promise is that He will be with those who follow Him.

And His presence makes all the difference, for everything flows from the presence of the Lord. Everything.

 

 





Also in Graceful Truth

WHEN ANSWERS TO PRAYER ARE HARD
WHEN ANSWERS TO PRAYER ARE HARD

March 11, 2025

God knows what He is about. Always include in your request the greatest prayer—the prayer of surrender. “Lord, Your will be done.” This is the prayer, when humbly prayed, that will always be answered and yield the most valuable result from the God who loves us best ... even if the answer is hard.

Continue Reading

WHAT WILL YOU DO WITH YOUR GOD?
WHAT WILL YOU DO WITH YOUR GOD?

March 05, 2025

Every created man or woman must make their choice. What will you do with God? Will you embrace or reject Him? Draw near or run away? Trust and serve Him or doubt God and serve yourself? This foundational choice determines everything.

Continue Reading

ONLY
ONLY

March 04, 2025

As you evaluate your faith, is it “God and?” God and others. God and the world’s ideas. God and my best thoughts thrown in. God and some money. God and a clear path. Or simply: God. Are you vainly clinging to the idea that you need more than Him?

Continue Reading