Fridays with David

Read 2 Samuel 12:26-30 – Now Joab fought against Rabbah of the people of Ammon, and took the royal city. And Joab sent messengers to David, and said, “I have fought against Rabbah, and I have taken the city’s water supply. Now therefore, gather the rest of the people together and encamp against the city and take it, lest I take the city and it be called after my name.” So David gathered all the people together and went to Rabbah, fought against it, and took it. Then he took their king’s crown from his head. Its weight was a talent of gold, with precious stones. And it was set on David’s head. Also he brought out the spoil of the city in great abundance. (NKJV)

Joab has been alone leading the army, and now his impending victory has created an awkward leadership moment. As he tells David, the king’s failure to return to leading the army means Joab may be elevated by his men. At first blush, it’s hard to tell whether these words are a threat, a fear or an acknowledgement of dissension in the ranks. Either way, Joab opens the door for his king to demonstrate that he is the leader. David must return to battle and demonstrate his leadership in this victory. Kudos to Joab for being mindful of the need for his king to be seen victorious. Currently, David isn’t proving worthy of such loyalty, but Joab acts rightly anyway. Those who serve must put the good of the kingdom and their king ahead of their own benefit. That’s the nature of being a servant. Leaders will have moments of failure, but those who serve them well will seek ways to protect their leaders from the impact of their flawed choices. By doing what is right, we can help others avoid the consequences of having done what is wrong and, hopefully, help them navigate the path back to the right side.

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