II Samuel 8
Outline
1 | Philistines
2 | Moab
3-8 | Hadadezer, son of Rehob, king of Zobah
9-12 | David dedicates the spoils and tributes: Toi king of Hamath, Aram, Moab, Ammon, Philistines, Amalek, Hadaezer
13-14 | Arameans and Edomites
15-18 | David’s Government Officials
Reflections
God blesses David with military victories which allowed him to establish the kingdom and to increase its wealth. David dedicated to the Lord many things that were captured as spoils or given as tributes. David also appointed the various government officials who functioned as his emissaries. Some were men who had served David in different capacities through the years. Additionally, now his sons were old enough to assume some responsibilities as well.
There are two verses that we need to focus on to see what made David a success (underlining added).
II Samuel 8:6 NASB Then David put garrisons among the Arameans of Damascus, and the Arameans became servants to David, bringing tribute. And the LORD helped David wherever he went.
II Samuel 8:14 NASB He put garrisons in Edom. In all Edom he put garrisons, and all the Edomites became servants to David. And the LORD helped David wherever he went.
Another verse will also help us see why he was a success.
II Samuel 8:11 NASB King David also dedicated these to the LORD, with the silver and gold that he had dedicated from all the nations which he had subdued:
God helped David and in return David dedicated to the Lord the spoils, gifts, and tributes gained through the Lord’s help, giving them back to the Lord. As you see God helping you in your life, follow David’s example: as God helps you, dedicate a portion to the Lord.
Let me be clear, this doesn’t mean that God will always reward us financially, or in every endeavor, but God will help us as we seek to bring Him glory. If financial gain comes as a result, hopefully we will have it in our hearts to dedicate a portion to the Lord, giving Him the honor He deserves.
Lord God, all the universe is Yours and You are able and willing to help those whose hearts are truly Yours. Help us to be people like David who can see Your providential hand working on our behalf and gives us wisdom as we dedicate a portion back to You for Your glory. May Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven, in Jesus’ name. Amen.
2Samuel_08_RL_DavidsMilitaryVictoriesAndHisGovenrmentOfficials.pdf
