Today’s Thought “Authority Questioned” G. Ward

 

“It happened as they were coming, when David returned from killing the Philistine, that the women came out of all the cities of Israel, singing and dancing, to meet King Saul, with tambourines, with joy and with musical instruments. The women sang as they played, and said, “Saul has slain his thousands, And David his ten thousands.” Then Saul became very angry, for this saying displeased him; and he said, “They have ascribed to David ten thousands, but to me they have ascribed thousands. Now what more can he have but the kingdom?” 1 Samuel 18:6-8

 

How important is it for you in having outsiders recognize your authority? Most will reply that they don’t mind being overlooked. I however, am inclined to believe that this disregard (whether blatant or without cognizance), is an issue of respectability (violated).

King Saul had a great respectability with the Israelites, until a young hero (responsible for killing a great giant soldier from an opposing faction) demonstrated unsuspected bravery. The women (who witnessed this heroism) most certainly didn’t help matters as they quickly devised a song representative of their appreciation for David’s victory. While David exercised in bravery, he never thought to do so anticipating recognition from man (cf. 1 Sa. 17:6). Nor was his desire to usurp authority from the King (1 Sa. 31:11-12).

Impropriety is never less because others progress, particularly when they’re part of our inner circle. Furthermore, it can experientially validate Holy God’s word found in Luke 6:40, “A pupil is not above his teacher; but everyone, after he has been fully trained, will be like his teacher.”

Happy Monday!