1 Chronicles 11:1–9

Read the passage.

The Chronicler emphasizes the united nature of the Kingdom of Israel under David’s rule. After Saul’s death, the tribe of Judah raised up David as their king, and it took two years and the death of Saul’s son Ish-bosheth for the other tribes (especially Saul’s tribe Benjamin) to follow him. Here though, we only see the elders of Israel coming together to make David the king of all of the tribes of Israel. They did this because of David’s proven record as a leader during Saul’s reign as a commander in the army. Even while David was being hunted by Saul, he did what was right before the Lord and did not foment rebellion or treason against the rightful king. They also recognized that the Lord had chosen David to be the new king over Israel, having spoken through Samuel years before.

With as important as Jerusalem has been to Israel for so long, it can be hard to remember sometimes that it hasn’t always been the seat of political and religious life of the nation. David ruled from Hebron for seven years before he raised up an army to conquer the city of the Jebusites. He moved into the stronghold of Zion and built up the city surrounding it. Though he had strong men to fight for him, David’s success is credited to the Lord of hosts, as is proper. David’s hosts were as the hosts of the Lord, making His people safe from their enemies on all sides.

Even the will of the people and popular sentiment is under Your control. You are absolutely, eternally sovereign.