Introduction

Judged by any standards, the greatest king Israel ever had was David. He seemed destined for leadership even when he was a young boy watching his father’s sheep on the rocky Judean hills around Bethlehem. His ascent to Saul’s court, his military victories, his capture of Jerusalem - these and other events caused the people from the tribes of Israel to ensconce David as their King. In Israel a man’s right to lead was authenticated by divine inspiration. A leader did not hold his position because he came from the right family. It was God who made his imprint on the man. David’s rise was great. Taking one step at a time, he gradually grew into full leadership of Israel.

His life was spectacular, but it reflected elements common to all of our lives as well. There was a tentative…