1 Samuel 18 – Christ: the Successful Messiah
When we see David as a scale model of Christ – a miniature with some incredible detail, but not the reality – we open up new windows for viewing Christ and his work.
Like David, and even more than David, Jesus is wonderfully successful. His heart was true to God’s covenant, walking in faith and obedience. God was with him, his Holy Spirit being given him especially for ministry. He was wonderfully successful in his mission of coming to redeem his chosen people by his blood. He gathered them, saved them, and sent them out. Satan could not tempt him into spoiling his obedience, nor distract him from his purpose.
He still is wonderfully successful, like David, only more so. He wins battles and wins hearts. His people have been victorious in battle for 2000 years, winning the spiritual battle that rages all around them. They overcome sin and temptation. They overcome fears and doubts. They make it safely across the river of Death to their homeland. Not one is ever snatched from his hand. He wins hearts too, subduing even his enemies to his service. Those who hate him are brought to love him. Those who rebelled against him are brought to revel in him. Jesus has “success in all his undertakings”.
What are you aiming to do for him? It might be daunting. It might feel like it is slipping away from you. Know that he is wonderfully successful in all he does. He brings to pass exactly what he wants, and he is doing that, and will do that in your efforts. As you look out on the stubborn mass of mankind, do not fear. There is no one better placed, or better equipped, to win them to himself. He doesn’t rely on your window-dressing. This relieves us of enormous pressure. We, of course, want to present him as winsomely as possible, but you’re not putting lipstick on a pig. When he opens people’s eyes they can’t not come to him! He’s that successful.
Questions
- How was Jesus successful in the past?
- How is Jesus successful now?
Prayer Points
- Pray for eyes of faith to see how winsome and winning he is.
- Use prayer points from your congregation.
- Pray for family matters.