Introduction: Welcome to another day in the life of the greatest king of Israel - King DAVID. Last week we met David in one of darkest days of his life. We were forced to recall events that may have caused us to question why we should look to David for lessons on greatness; however, it is important to remember though David was the Lord’s anointed, he did make some bad decisions and at times yielded to temptation. He was not perfect. Yet David’s greatness was due to his heart after God. In Acts 13:22-23 we find these words, “After removing him (Saul), he raised up David as their king and testified about him, ‘I have found David the son of Jesse to be a man after my own heart, who will carry out all my will.’ “From this man’s descendants as he promised, God brought to Israel the Savior, Jesus.”

In our text today David is revealing his dedication to God’s will by returning  to his appointed place and purpose. Though there will be more attempts to remove him from his throne, David will outline priorities and strategies to stabilize the kingdom.

On this day of David’s life (II Samuel 20)  David  is focused on recovering from the recent uprising while at the same time addressing another rebellion in the making. Let’s see if we can follow David’s priorities in recovery that also work in conjunction with  plan to put down another crisis.

Recovery Priority #1: Comfort. II Samuel 20:3 There is no question the kingdom was in need of comforting words and actions. David’s first action was to deal with the concubines he had left to keep the palace. An advisor named Ahithophel suggested that Absalom violate his father’s concubines in public for all to see (II Sam.16:21). What David does to the concubines upon his return was not judgement though some renderings suggest he placed them under house arrest. He did order their provisions and protection for life and he would never be intimate with them again. They would live out their days as widows not a trophy to be abused by an invading enemy (II Sam. 20:3).

Recovery Priority #2. Summons Support. After providing comfort David turned his attention to gathering the men of Judah. The issue surrounding the new revolt was how David had been brought back to his kingdom. Judah brought David home and ten tribes of Israel were offended that they were not included. So David wanted the men of Judah to gather and work toward a resolution.

Recovery Priority #3. Replace rouge leaders. In gaining complete support of all of Judah David appointed Amasa commander of the army (II Samuel 19:11-15).

Recovery Priority #4. Put down any remnant of revolt.  Let’s read from where we left off last week to where we are today (II Samuel 19:40-20:2).

A. Name the rebel

B. Give specific orders

C. Specify time for completion of essential tasks.

Examples:

1 Amasa replaced Joab. Joab killed Amasa and reinstated himself commander of the army.( II Samuel 20:4-11)

2 Going where the trail leads. A fluid task. (II Samuel 20:14)

3 Listening to others for wisdom (II Samuel 20:15-22)

(II Samuel 20:23).

Application: What does all of this have to do with you?

Just as God had a plan for David, He has a plan for your life.

The enemy sought of hinder David in accomplishing his mission. He is after you as well. There are many things that have caused you to lose focus of you purpose. It is time for you to prioritize your action steps to recovering your vision and purpose in serving your Lord.

You need to make peace a practice in your life. You were saved to be a peacemaker (Matthew 5:9).  Make peace with yourself and with others.

You need to address the rebel in your life. What sin have you allowed to have a dwelling place in your mind or heart.  Name that sin and root it out today.

Gather (summon) support. Stop thinking you can do it on your own. Meet with loving brothers and sisters to pray. Support one another by becoming genuine friends who fellowship often to help one another adjust to the fluid situations in life.

Remove distractions.

Become a genuine disciple of Christ and live to make disciples of others. This will be the fulfillment of your purpose in life as a Christian. With this comes abiding joy, peace, and love.

Keep this and read it everyday for one month. If you read it and do as instructed you will be on your way to greatness for God’s glory.