Fridays with David

Read 1 Samuel 30:26-31 – Now when David came to Ziklag, he sent some of the spoil to the elders of Judah, to his friends, saying, “Here is a present for you from the spoil of the enemies of the Lord”— to those who were in Bethel, those who were in Ramoth of the South, those who were in Jattir, those who were in Aroer, those who were in Siphmoth, those who were in Eshtemoa, those who were in Rachal, those who were in the cities of the Jerahmeelites, those who were in the cities of the Kenites, those who were in Hormah, those who were in Chorashan, those who were in Athach, those who were in Hebron, and to all the places where David himself and his men were accustomed to rove. (NKJV)

As David returns victoriously to Judah, he sends portions of his gains to those who had supported his men. This was not a bribe for future support, but a remembrance of those friends who had fed him and supported him in moments he and his men needed refuge. The principle here is to remember those that have treated you well. David’s consideration of these friends endeared him to them forever. He wasn’t the leader who would use people on his way to the top, but one who recognized the sacrifices and risks they had taken on his behalf. Now that he has won a great battle, they too share in the victory and the plunder. Remembering those who have helped us is a critical part of quality leadership. When we forget those who have been instrumental in our success, that success is usually short-lived. But those who honor the contributions of others tend to continue receiving that help as they move even further forward.

– Dr. Mike Clarensau serves as Senior Director of the Healthy Church Network of the Assemblies of God.