2025 2 Samuel 8, The Way To Win; It Is Not You But God Who Prepares
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2025-05-25 16:06
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The Way To Win; It Is Not You But God Who Prepares
2 Samuel 8
David won wherever he went. David did not receive a finished product named ‘victory.’ He solved problems in his life and learned how to win. The United States imposed tariffs on Canada, putting the country in a state of crisis in sovereignty and economy. Now, this is an opportunity to remove the barriers among Canadian provinces and turn her eyes to the world.
God gives us a problem and says, “Solve it.” When we solve the problem by faith relying on God, we can solve any other problems coming to us.
P. Oral Roberts said that there are three secrets to victory in life. First, God is the Source, look at Him. Second, plant your seeds (time, money, hard working devotion). Third, expect abundant and miraculous harvest. This is David’s life.
Saul received a finished product. He did not learn how to solve problems. His end was so tragic and miserable. On the other hand, David became powerful because he learned how to solve problems in the wilderness.
In a book ‘Screwtape Letters’ by C.S. Luis, a Christian happened to pick up something shining. A demon said to devil in worry, “Sir, that guy took a piece of truth. We are in trouble. What if he would be enlightened?" The devil said grinning, "Don't worry; he will only make a doctrine out of that."
When we find the truth, we should live by the truth. However, if we just hold it with satisfaction saying, "I know the truth,” this is nothing. You see road signs while driving. Are you impressed by the signs saying, “Wou, the sign is great?” You are to drive toward where the sign directs. When you meet the truth, you are to live by that.
In the back of a math text book, there are answers. Just knowing the answers doesn't mean you can solve math problems. You have to solve the math problems yourself. When you solve them and find that your answers match with the answers in the math text book, you will be thrilled and happy. If you work hard to solve various math problems, you can solve any other math problems.
We know the Bible. We think that is the answer. However, is knowing or memorizing the Bible faith? No. You yourself must solve the problems. When you solve the problems and your answer matches the answer in the Bible, that is power and joy.
When a lion and a bear attacked sheep, David did not run away but fought against them and rescued the sheep from their brutal claws. David solved the problem. Therefore, he had a confidence that he could solve other problems. In 1 Samuel 17, David came out to challenge Goliath saying, “When a lion or a bear came and carried off a sheep from the flock, I struck it and rescued the sheep from its mouth. The LORD who rescued me from the paw of the lion and the bear will rescue me from the hand of this Philistine.” What he said is, “I solved the problem of lion and bear. Therefore, I can solve the Goliath problem now. By God’s help, I can defeat Goliath.” Indeed David won over Goliath. This is the power of the one who knows the problem-solving process. If you only know the answer but avoid solving the problem, there no harvest, joy and power in your life.
Some Christians are only talking about the Bible but avoid or fail to solve the practical problems? Knowing the answer is never enough. Solve the problem by yourself. If you solve one or two problems in your life by faith, you can solve any other problems. This is the path to victory.
David won every battle because he mastered the problem-solving process. God's word is the answer. If our answer through the problem-solving process of our lives matches with the answer from the word of God, we will be prosperous. Then how can we solve problems?
First, develop yourself
David was a loser socially. He was not even eligible for military service. He was ignored at his home thoroughly. He took care of sheep. Nobody recognized him. He was marginalized by the society. However, David did not remain in melancholy or despair. He developed himself in his lowliness. While shepherding, he practiced throwing stones daily until he was able to hit the target accurately. Then, his skill was used to save sheep from the claws of lions and bears and his nation from Goliath. He also wrote poems, played instruments, worshiped God and prayed to Him. He did not sit sighing, "I'm a loser, my life is over," but developed himself.
There are people who complain, saying, “I have nothing.” They just sleep or drink or play computer games all day. No. We are to sharpen our swords by worship, praying, reading books and studying hard.
God noticed David's attitude of shepherding the sheep and chose him. Psalms 78:70-72 says, “He chose David and took him from the sheep pens; from tending the sheep he brought him to be the shepherd of his people Israel. And David shepherded them with integrity of heart; with skillful hands he led them.” This is like what Matthew 25 says, “Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!’
History means his story. In ancient times, man (he) was the symbol of power while woman (her) was weak. So, history is the story of powerful people. However, here is a word, ‘herstory’, the story of the powerless.
Once, Egypt was the most powerful nation and Pharaoh was the most powerful king of the world. However, the Bible does not mention his name. The Bible mentions the name Moses, his parents (Amram and Jochebed) and two midwives (Shiphrah and Puah) because they are real history makers.
The world looks at those who are powerful in politics, business and academia. However God moves history through those who pray and have faith. David is the main character of herstory.
While David was a fugitive, he hid in the cave of Adullam. Then 600 who were in distress or in debt or discontented gathered around him. David could have been very disappointed saying, “Gee, what can I, anointed to become king of Israel do with these losers?" But David became their commander teaching them the word of God, worship, prayer, integrity and patience. Then the core figures who became the cornerstones of David's kingdom came from there. David learned how to solve problems.
Are you sighing, saying “I have no enough resources and there is no one around me who can help me?” But David believed in God, developed himself by learning how to solve problems. Then, he won wherever he went. Verse 6 says, “The LORD gave David victory wherever he went.” Do you get what it means now? Don’t just look for the answer. Don’t just look at your human condition. When you face a problem in study, job, finance, family, health or relationships, don’t avoid it or be discouraged, but solve it by faith and by relying on God. Develop yourself by faith.
Second, experience God’s power
Fear and worry are two main problems in man’s life. He won in the past. But he is still in fear and worry now. “Hey, you won in the past, they why are you worried and fearful?” He answered, “I don’t know. I am anxious and worried.”
Here is David’s spirit and faith, “I defeated bears and lions in the past by God’s help. Therefore, I can defeat Goliath now.” This is exactly same with Paul’s confession, “I can do all things in Jesus Christ who strengthen me.”
We were weak in the past. How did we win then? By God’s power. Then, how can we win now? Not by our own strength, but by God’s power. When God is with us, we win. You didn’t win not because you were strong but because God was with you. Therefore, what you need to check now is not how strong you are or how much do you have, but whether God is with you or not. If God is with you and you feel God’s presence, nothing can harm you and you win.
Brothers, if you try to win by your own strength and plans, you will never be free from fear and worry. Look to God and ask Him to be with you. Check whether God is with you in your study, work and family. It is not what you do but God does for you as you rely on Him.
Look at verse 1. “In the course of time, David defeated the Philistines and subdued them.” The Philistines were always a threatening and powerful country to Israel. During the period of the Judges, Israel was ruled and exploited by the Philistines. The Ark of the Lord was captured by them. King Saul and his three sons were killed in a war against them. To Israel, the Philistines were something unconquerable and impregnable.
However, David easily defeated the Philistines. There is no much explanation. There is no any tension or struggle. David won so easily. How? It was because David relied on God and God was with him. Brothers, I want you experience this kind of miraculous victory. You might have a very difficult problem in your life, a problem that seems impossible to solve. Now, rely on God and seek Him wholeheartedly through worship and prayer. Then you can win so easily by God’s power.
Don't forget. If God is with you, you will win. What was David’s strong point? Hebrews 11:27 says, “He saw God who is invisible.” David believed and trusted in God invisible. What is way to solve problems in our lives? It is when we see God who is invisible. It is when we believe in Him. It is when we sincerely and wholeheartedly seek Him. Life is not something you make and do. It is something God makes and does for you. I want you to experience this.
Third, cut off the tendons of chariot horses
Look at verse 4. “David captured a thousand of his chariots, seven thousand charioteers and twenty thousand foot soldiers. He hamstrung all but a hundred of the chariot horses.” At that time, horses were as valuable as tanks now. A horse is so valuable and expensive. Now David captured 1,700 war horses. He could have used the horses for his military. However, David reserved only 100 horses but cut off the tendons of the rest making them disabled. Why did he give up these precious horses? It was because he knew he would boast and rely on the horses. He decided to rely on God only.
In Deuteronomy 17, 3 things a king must do. “Do not have many wives. Do not collect silver and gold. Do not have many horses.” It means, “rely only on God.” Not only did David know the answer, but he also lived by the word of God. No king would cut off the tendons of horses because the horses are the powerful weapons and assets. But David obeyed God. He cut off everything he could rely on.
David’s heart was one. This is loyalty. If someone has two hearts, this is spilt or worry. Is there anyone who has two hearts? But, often we have two hearts. We believe in God and we believe in horses (money, car, stock, house or career.). We love God and we love horses. That is why we are divided, and our worries never end. David cut off one. He looked only to God. He became loyal and faithful to God. Then he became free. This is David’s secret to victory.
Young men, as time goes by, you will have more things to love and rely on. You will have 1,700 horses. (at least several horses) At that time, cut the hamstrings of the horses. Then God will make you win.
In the time of victory and blessing, David took an axe and cut the hamstrings of his horses. “I have nothing but God. My heart is one!” This is how David lived.
Verse 7 says, “David took the gold shields that belonged to the officers of Hadadezer. Verses 9-10 say, “Tou, king of Hamath sent his son Joram to King David. Joram brought with him articles of silver, of gold and of bronze.” David never tried to make money and become rich. But when he first sought God and His kingdom, God blessed him to become wealthy greatly. If you pursue money and recognition, you will lose God’s grace. Then you will lose everything.
When people become wealthy, they usually consider how they can live a secure and comfortable life. But David was different.
Look at verses 11-12. “King David dedicated these articles to the LORD, as he had done with the silver and gold from all the nations he had subdued. He also dedicated the plunder taken from Hadadezer son of Rehob, king of Zobah.” His dedication was his confession that the victory and blessing came from God. David was neither drunken nor enslaved by money. He seemed to be clean in dealing with money. Then God gave him victory, wealth and power more. This is a virtuous cycle.
What good is it if you only know the answer? You have to solve it. You have to live like that. There are Christians who live like this. Whether they busy or not, they keep the Sabbath day. When they make money, they offer tithe. They live not by their strength but by God’s grace and power. They win. There are people who are lukewarm with no devotion though they are blessed by God. As a result, they are constantly worried and afraid.
Brothers, you worry about your future, don’t you? Stop thinking, “how to make more money and how to live a secured life.” Instead, seek God, “Jehovah Jireh.” It is not you and I who prepare. God prepares. David believed and trusted in God, ‘Jehovah Jireh’ and devoted what he received from the Lord to Him. He lived a victorious and prosperous life.
2 Samuel 8
David won wherever he went. David did not receive a finished product named ‘victory.’ He solved problems in his life and learned how to win. The United States imposed tariffs on Canada, putting the country in a state of crisis in sovereignty and economy. Now, this is an opportunity to remove the barriers among Canadian provinces and turn her eyes to the world.
God gives us a problem and says, “Solve it.” When we solve the problem by faith relying on God, we can solve any other problems coming to us.
P. Oral Roberts said that there are three secrets to victory in life. First, God is the Source, look at Him. Second, plant your seeds (time, money, hard working devotion). Third, expect abundant and miraculous harvest. This is David’s life.
Saul received a finished product. He did not learn how to solve problems. His end was so tragic and miserable. On the other hand, David became powerful because he learned how to solve problems in the wilderness.
In a book ‘Screwtape Letters’ by C.S. Luis, a Christian happened to pick up something shining. A demon said to devil in worry, “Sir, that guy took a piece of truth. We are in trouble. What if he would be enlightened?" The devil said grinning, "Don't worry; he will only make a doctrine out of that."
When we find the truth, we should live by the truth. However, if we just hold it with satisfaction saying, "I know the truth,” this is nothing. You see road signs while driving. Are you impressed by the signs saying, “Wou, the sign is great?” You are to drive toward where the sign directs. When you meet the truth, you are to live by that.
In the back of a math text book, there are answers. Just knowing the answers doesn't mean you can solve math problems. You have to solve the math problems yourself. When you solve them and find that your answers match with the answers in the math text book, you will be thrilled and happy. If you work hard to solve various math problems, you can solve any other math problems.
We know the Bible. We think that is the answer. However, is knowing or memorizing the Bible faith? No. You yourself must solve the problems. When you solve the problems and your answer matches the answer in the Bible, that is power and joy.
When a lion and a bear attacked sheep, David did not run away but fought against them and rescued the sheep from their brutal claws. David solved the problem. Therefore, he had a confidence that he could solve other problems. In 1 Samuel 17, David came out to challenge Goliath saying, “When a lion or a bear came and carried off a sheep from the flock, I struck it and rescued the sheep from its mouth. The LORD who rescued me from the paw of the lion and the bear will rescue me from the hand of this Philistine.” What he said is, “I solved the problem of lion and bear. Therefore, I can solve the Goliath problem now. By God’s help, I can defeat Goliath.” Indeed David won over Goliath. This is the power of the one who knows the problem-solving process. If you only know the answer but avoid solving the problem, there no harvest, joy and power in your life.
Some Christians are only talking about the Bible but avoid or fail to solve the practical problems? Knowing the answer is never enough. Solve the problem by yourself. If you solve one or two problems in your life by faith, you can solve any other problems. This is the path to victory.
David won every battle because he mastered the problem-solving process. God's word is the answer. If our answer through the problem-solving process of our lives matches with the answer from the word of God, we will be prosperous. Then how can we solve problems?
First, develop yourself
David was a loser socially. He was not even eligible for military service. He was ignored at his home thoroughly. He took care of sheep. Nobody recognized him. He was marginalized by the society. However, David did not remain in melancholy or despair. He developed himself in his lowliness. While shepherding, he practiced throwing stones daily until he was able to hit the target accurately. Then, his skill was used to save sheep from the claws of lions and bears and his nation from Goliath. He also wrote poems, played instruments, worshiped God and prayed to Him. He did not sit sighing, "I'm a loser, my life is over," but developed himself.
There are people who complain, saying, “I have nothing.” They just sleep or drink or play computer games all day. No. We are to sharpen our swords by worship, praying, reading books and studying hard.
God noticed David's attitude of shepherding the sheep and chose him. Psalms 78:70-72 says, “He chose David and took him from the sheep pens; from tending the sheep he brought him to be the shepherd of his people Israel. And David shepherded them with integrity of heart; with skillful hands he led them.” This is like what Matthew 25 says, “Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!’
History means his story. In ancient times, man (he) was the symbol of power while woman (her) was weak. So, history is the story of powerful people. However, here is a word, ‘herstory’, the story of the powerless.
Once, Egypt was the most powerful nation and Pharaoh was the most powerful king of the world. However, the Bible does not mention his name. The Bible mentions the name Moses, his parents (Amram and Jochebed) and two midwives (Shiphrah and Puah) because they are real history makers.
The world looks at those who are powerful in politics, business and academia. However God moves history through those who pray and have faith. David is the main character of herstory.
While David was a fugitive, he hid in the cave of Adullam. Then 600 who were in distress or in debt or discontented gathered around him. David could have been very disappointed saying, “Gee, what can I, anointed to become king of Israel do with these losers?" But David became their commander teaching them the word of God, worship, prayer, integrity and patience. Then the core figures who became the cornerstones of David's kingdom came from there. David learned how to solve problems.
Are you sighing, saying “I have no enough resources and there is no one around me who can help me?” But David believed in God, developed himself by learning how to solve problems. Then, he won wherever he went. Verse 6 says, “The LORD gave David victory wherever he went.” Do you get what it means now? Don’t just look for the answer. Don’t just look at your human condition. When you face a problem in study, job, finance, family, health or relationships, don’t avoid it or be discouraged, but solve it by faith and by relying on God. Develop yourself by faith.
Second, experience God’s power
Fear and worry are two main problems in man’s life. He won in the past. But he is still in fear and worry now. “Hey, you won in the past, they why are you worried and fearful?” He answered, “I don’t know. I am anxious and worried.”
Here is David’s spirit and faith, “I defeated bears and lions in the past by God’s help. Therefore, I can defeat Goliath now.” This is exactly same with Paul’s confession, “I can do all things in Jesus Christ who strengthen me.”
We were weak in the past. How did we win then? By God’s power. Then, how can we win now? Not by our own strength, but by God’s power. When God is with us, we win. You didn’t win not because you were strong but because God was with you. Therefore, what you need to check now is not how strong you are or how much do you have, but whether God is with you or not. If God is with you and you feel God’s presence, nothing can harm you and you win.
Brothers, if you try to win by your own strength and plans, you will never be free from fear and worry. Look to God and ask Him to be with you. Check whether God is with you in your study, work and family. It is not what you do but God does for you as you rely on Him.
Look at verse 1. “In the course of time, David defeated the Philistines and subdued them.” The Philistines were always a threatening and powerful country to Israel. During the period of the Judges, Israel was ruled and exploited by the Philistines. The Ark of the Lord was captured by them. King Saul and his three sons were killed in a war against them. To Israel, the Philistines were something unconquerable and impregnable.
However, David easily defeated the Philistines. There is no much explanation. There is no any tension or struggle. David won so easily. How? It was because David relied on God and God was with him. Brothers, I want you experience this kind of miraculous victory. You might have a very difficult problem in your life, a problem that seems impossible to solve. Now, rely on God and seek Him wholeheartedly through worship and prayer. Then you can win so easily by God’s power.
Don't forget. If God is with you, you will win. What was David’s strong point? Hebrews 11:27 says, “He saw God who is invisible.” David believed and trusted in God invisible. What is way to solve problems in our lives? It is when we see God who is invisible. It is when we believe in Him. It is when we sincerely and wholeheartedly seek Him. Life is not something you make and do. It is something God makes and does for you. I want you to experience this.
Third, cut off the tendons of chariot horses
Look at verse 4. “David captured a thousand of his chariots, seven thousand charioteers and twenty thousand foot soldiers. He hamstrung all but a hundred of the chariot horses.” At that time, horses were as valuable as tanks now. A horse is so valuable and expensive. Now David captured 1,700 war horses. He could have used the horses for his military. However, David reserved only 100 horses but cut off the tendons of the rest making them disabled. Why did he give up these precious horses? It was because he knew he would boast and rely on the horses. He decided to rely on God only.
In Deuteronomy 17, 3 things a king must do. “Do not have many wives. Do not collect silver and gold. Do not have many horses.” It means, “rely only on God.” Not only did David know the answer, but he also lived by the word of God. No king would cut off the tendons of horses because the horses are the powerful weapons and assets. But David obeyed God. He cut off everything he could rely on.
David’s heart was one. This is loyalty. If someone has two hearts, this is spilt or worry. Is there anyone who has two hearts? But, often we have two hearts. We believe in God and we believe in horses (money, car, stock, house or career.). We love God and we love horses. That is why we are divided, and our worries never end. David cut off one. He looked only to God. He became loyal and faithful to God. Then he became free. This is David’s secret to victory.
Young men, as time goes by, you will have more things to love and rely on. You will have 1,700 horses. (at least several horses) At that time, cut the hamstrings of the horses. Then God will make you win.
In the time of victory and blessing, David took an axe and cut the hamstrings of his horses. “I have nothing but God. My heart is one!” This is how David lived.
Verse 7 says, “David took the gold shields that belonged to the officers of Hadadezer. Verses 9-10 say, “Tou, king of Hamath sent his son Joram to King David. Joram brought with him articles of silver, of gold and of bronze.” David never tried to make money and become rich. But when he first sought God and His kingdom, God blessed him to become wealthy greatly. If you pursue money and recognition, you will lose God’s grace. Then you will lose everything.
When people become wealthy, they usually consider how they can live a secure and comfortable life. But David was different.
Look at verses 11-12. “King David dedicated these articles to the LORD, as he had done with the silver and gold from all the nations he had subdued. He also dedicated the plunder taken from Hadadezer son of Rehob, king of Zobah.” His dedication was his confession that the victory and blessing came from God. David was neither drunken nor enslaved by money. He seemed to be clean in dealing with money. Then God gave him victory, wealth and power more. This is a virtuous cycle.
What good is it if you only know the answer? You have to solve it. You have to live like that. There are Christians who live like this. Whether they busy or not, they keep the Sabbath day. When they make money, they offer tithe. They live not by their strength but by God’s grace and power. They win. There are people who are lukewarm with no devotion though they are blessed by God. As a result, they are constantly worried and afraid.
Brothers, you worry about your future, don’t you? Stop thinking, “how to make more money and how to live a secured life.” Instead, seek God, “Jehovah Jireh.” It is not you and I who prepare. God prepares. David believed and trusted in God, ‘Jehovah Jireh’ and devoted what he received from the Lord to Him. He lived a victorious and prosperous life.