II Samuel 8:11 King David dedicated these articles to the Lord, as he had done with the silver and gold from all the nations he had subdued

Occasionally we run into someone who has trouble accomplishing a goal or completing a task. Then someone steps in to give them a hand and they enjoy great success. Only to take all the credit themselves!

David had been enjoying a tremendous amount of success. It was one victory after another. It’s quite a contrast to previous chapters where he is hiding in holes from Saul! Things have really turned around. But why have they? What was the secret of David’s success?

David has been asking God for direction. He got in the habit of praying before he took action. Also, as in today’s verse, he gave God credit for victory. He looked upon the victories as God’s victories and gave God the spoils. It’s like he bookends all he’s doing with close communication with God. And the results are clear.

Jesus did this as well. Jesus performed tremendous miracles and produced incomparable teaching. What was the secret of His success? Jesus was always saying things like, “Apart from the Father I can do nothing.” He was always praying. Always seeking God’s direction. Every action or word bookended by close communication with God.

Is it possible that the secret of success is not that big a secret? Would our lives be better, would we see greater successes if we also got in the habit of bookending everything with communication with God? Seeking His counsel before we act; giving Him the credit and praise for success afterwards? It’s worth a try!

Blessings,

Pastor Russ