The Four Pillars of King David's Reign

Jessica Mae Obioha
Jul 31, 2024
5 min read

David is one of the most significant figures in the Bible, known for his varied roles as a shepherd boy, anointed king, and reigning monarch of Israel. His life is detailed in several books of the Old Testament, primarily 1 Samuel, 2 Samuel, and 1 Kings, along with mentions in the Psalms and Chronicles. What set David apart from other kings of his time were four key attributes: his devotion to God, his understanding of God-instituted authority, his loyalty to covenant relationships, and his habit of inquiring about God. These characteristics not only defined his reign but also left an indelible mark on the history and spiritual heritage of Israel.

From his early days as a shepherd boy to his time as a king, David’s faith was the cornerstone of his life and the essence of his existence. This faith was first notably recognized when the prophet Samuel anointed him as the future king of Israel. Despite being the youngest of Jesse's sons and seemingly the least likely candidate, he was chosen by God because of his heart (1 Samuel 16:1-13). This divine selection highlights the profound faith that God saw within David, a faith that would later be demonstrated in his actions and decisions.

David’s leadership was further solidified when he was anointed king over Judah and later over all of Israel (2 Samuel 2:4, 5:3). His military conquests expanded the territory of Israel, and his strategic capture of Jerusalem made it the political and religious heart of the nation (2 Samuel 5:6-10). He was a military leader and an astute administrator, organizing his kingdom efficiently and justly. His ability to unite the tribes of Israel under his rule was a testament to his exceptional leadership skills.

More pillars undergird King David’s reign, this list is not exhaustive but let us look at four of them for this article.

The Four Pillars of King David's Reign

Reverence for Divine Authority

David's devotion to God was unrivaled and was evident throughout his life. Despite being the youngest and seemingly least significant of Jesse's sons, he was chosen by God, because of his heart (1 Samuel 16:1-13). His deep and personal relationship with God was reflected in his psalms, where he expressed a wide range of emotions—from joy and gratitude to despair and repentance. David worshipped God with an intensity and sincerity that stood out. He sang, played instruments, and danced with all his might before the Lord (2 Samuel 6:14-15).

This devotion was not just ritualistic but deeply personal; David conversed with God about his frustrations, disappointments, failures, God's wonderful works, faithfulness, and mercies. His worship was genuine and extravagant, often leading him to expressions of worship that others, like Michal, found undignified. Yet, David’s heart for God made him a king who sought to honour God in all he did, making Jerusalem the center of worship by bringing the Ark of the Covenant there (2 Samuel 6:12-15).

This devotion was not just ritualistic but deeply personal...His worship was genuine and extravagant...

One significant act of devotion was bringing the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem, establishing the city as the central place of worship (2 Samuel 6:12-15). This act demonstrated his commitment to honouring God and centralizing religious practices in the capital. Furthermore, despite his many accomplishments, David remained humble before God. When confronted with his sins, he showed sincere repentance, most notably in his lament over his affair with Bathsheba and the subsequent consequences (2 Samuel 12:1-13). His psalm of repentance, Psalm 51, remains a powerful testament to his profound devotion and his understanding of God's mercy.

...despite his many accomplishments, David remained humble before God.

2. Reverence for Divine Respect

David’s respect for God-instituted authority was another attribute that set him apart. From a young age, he demonstrated respect and honour for those in positions of God-given authority. When serving in King Saul’s court as a musician and armour-bearer, David maintained his integrity even as Saul became increasingly jealous and hostile toward him (1 Samuel 18:10-11). Despite being anointed to be the next king, David refrained from harming Saul, whom he refers to as "the Lord’s anointed." On two notable occasions, David had the opportunity to kill Saul but chose not to, stating, "I will not lay my hand on my lord, because he is the Lord’s anointed" (1 Samuel 24:3-6; 1 Samuel 26:9).

1 Samuel 24:10 ..."I will not lay my hand on my lord, because he is the Lord’s anointed"

This profound respect for God’s appointed authority exemplified David's understanding that it was God's prerogative, not his, to remove Saul from power. David seemed to have a revelation of God-instituted authority, that is, worthy of emulation in the body of Christ. It doesn’t matter how educated, influential, and rich you are when someone is in authority over you that trumps all and they are to be given their due regard and respect even if they do things that you disagree with. Don't slag them off in their absence and walk seemingly upright in their presence, as if nothing is wrong. It is not integral, It is not honest and God is not happy with it.

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3. Faithful Covenant Keeper

David’s loyalty in covenant relationships was profoundly exemplified in his friendship with Jonathan, King Saul’s son. Jonathan’s soul was knit with David’s, and they made a covenant because of their deep love and respect for each other (1 Samuel 18:1-4). This covenant was not merely a friendship pact but a binding agreement with lasting implications.

Jonathan’s gifts of his robe, armor, sword, bow, and belt to David were tokens of this covenant. Even after Jonathan's death, David honored this covenant by seeking out Jonathan’s descendants to show kindness, particularly Mephibosheth, whom he restored to a place of honor and provision (2 Samuel 9:1-7).

David’s commitment to this covenant extended beyond Jonathan’s life, reflecting a deep sense of loyalty and faithfulness that transcended personal and political interests.

4. Seeking God's Counsel

David’s habit of inquiring about God was a defining characteristic of his leadership. The Bible records numerous instances where David sought God's guidance before making significant decisions (1 Samuel 23:2, 4; 2 Samuel 2:1; 2 Samuel 5:19, 23). This practice likely began during his days as a shepherd boy and continued throughout his life. By seeking God’s direction, David demonstrated his dependence on God’s wisdom and will rather than relying solely on his understanding or capabilities. This habit of inquiring about God showed David's deep respect and honor for God, making him a man after God's own heart (Acts 13:22). His willingness to seek and follow God’s guidance was a key factor in his success and favor as king.

By seeking God’s direction, David demonstrated his dependence on God’s wisdom and will rather than relying solely on his understanding or capabilities.

In conclusion, David’s life was marked by his profound devotion to God, his respect for God-instituted authority, his loyalty to covenant relationships, and his habit of inquiring about God. These attributes distinguished him from other kings of his time and made him a pivotal figure in the biblical narrative and the history of Israel. David's life provides timeless lessons in faith, integrity, loyalty, and dependence on God, offering a model for personal and spiritual growth that remains relevant to this day. His journey from shepherd boy to revered king is a testament to a life lived in profound connection with God.