There are so many things that have been impactful to me from A Tale of Three Kings!

We talked a little about the beginnings of David’s reign last post. At the other end of David’s reign was Absalom, his son who tried to usurp him. This man just couldn’t catch a break!

David was advised to thwart Absalom’s overthrow. Sounds noble, right?

Not to David.

David desired God’s plan, which may include seasons on the throne and off the throne.  After all, it’s not his throne – or Saul’s or Absalom’s.  It’s God’s!

I did not lift a finger to be made king. Nor shall I do so to preserve a kingdom. Even the kingdom of God! God put me here. It is not my responsibility to take, or keep, authority. Do you not realize, it may be his will for these things to take place? If he chooses, God can protect and keep the kingdom even now. After all, it is his kingdom.

That’s quite a different perspective! I just love the humble confidence it conveys. There is such freedom in navigating life as we realize that our being ‘on the throne’ may be God’s plan… and our no longer being ‘on the throne’ may be next in God’s plan.  Clinging to the throne is not our job.  Instead, trusting in God’s plan – leaning into His plan – frees us from fear!

Authority from God is not afraid of challengers, makes no defense, and cares not one whit if it must be dethroned.

Now it’s of course worth noting that our actions could cause our dethroning. It is always important that we rid of obstacles on our part:

I will not hinder God. No obstacle, no activity on my part lies between me and God’s will. Nothing will prevent him from accomplishing his will.

But this also means that we won’t get in His way if He’s moving us along!

The throne is not mine. Not to have, not to take, not to protect, and not to keep.

Do we desire God’s will more than we desire our throne – whatever that may be? Do we desire God’s will more than we desire a position of leadership? More than our financial success, or others’ liking us, or whatever we think we deserve?

Do we desire God’s will as David did?

I’d like to leave you with just one last question if I may. This is a difficult perspective to swallow. It’s a life-altering perspective, so by its nature, it can be a big shift to make. It often involves frustration, brokenness, heartache, and perseverance as we process it all. It often involves a wrestling match or two with the Lord… and perhaps with ourselves. It involves a willingness to be transformed and embrace earthly loss for the sake of God’s kingdom. It may initially seem like loss, but it may actually be the greatest thing this world needs.

What does this world need: gifted men and women, outwardly empowered? Or individuals who are broken, inwardly transformed?

It can seem more fun – and easier – to be the former. But it may be more valuable – and ultimately more impactful for the kingdom – to be the latter.  The dethroning may seem like a setback.  But it may ultimately be for the advancement of God’s kingdom plans and the glory of the King!