23: Choose Who You Serve

This powerful message takes us into a pivotal moment in Israel's history where the nation finds itself divided between two kings—David in Judah and Ish-bosheth over the rest of Israel. What emerges is a profound truth that echoes through the centuries: we must choose who we will serve. David's journey from privately anointed shepherd boy to publicly recognized king spans fifteen years of waiting, yet even in his moment of triumph, he doesn't presume authority. Instead, he inquires of God about where to go and how to proceed. His humility reminds us that no matter our position or calling, we remain dependent on the Lord. The significance of Hebron—where Abraham first encountered God, where the patriarchs were buried—connects David's obedience to a legacy of faith stretching back generations. Even more striking is David's grace toward former enemies, extending kindness to those who served Saul and inviting them into his kingdom. This mirrors Christ's own invitation to us: once we were enemies of God, slaves to sin, but He extended the ultimate peace offering through the cross. The challenge before us is clear—will we choose to serve money, family, ourselves, or Jesus? As Jesus himself declared, no one can serve two masters. The question isn't whether we'll serve something, but what that something will be. When we face the reality of our mortality, what will people say defined our lives? Did we genuinely love others and passionately follow Jesus, or did we serve lesser gods that ultimately disappoint?