1 Chronicles 18:1-17
Q.1. How successful was David as king? How did he maintain his ascendency? What did he do with the tribute paid by the nations he conquered? – (1 Chron.18:1-8)
The Chronicler reported the amazing success of David but was careful to explain – And the Lord helped David wherever he went (1 Chron.18:6 & 13). This is the only explanation for David’s victories over all his enemies. He exacted tribute from many of these nations. However, unlike most success stories where people accumulate wealth for their own egos, David amassed the spoils of battle in order to adorn a future Temple for his God – Solomon brought in the things dedicated by his father David, the silver and the gold and the utensils, and he put them in the treasuries of the house of the Lord (1 Kgs.7:51). Â
Q.2. Why did David succeed in his rule over Israel? What characterized his rule? What was the motive behind the expansion of his kingdom? – (Chron.18:6-17)
David was a great strategist. He built protective garrisons around his kingdom. He kept dedicating the spoils of battle to the Lord (1 Chron.18:11). His reign was administered with justice and righteousness for all his people (1 Chron.18:1 c.f. 1 Chron.22:14). David also chose loyal men to lead, as well as his many sons, who were chiefs at the king’s side.