David sings unto the Lord: “I will extol you, O Lord.” (Psalm 30:1) King Saul, because of an inferiority complex and envy, harassed and hounded David. He lived in caves and took refuge in many places. At last, God gave him victory over his enemies and established his throne in Jerusalem. When he built his house, he gave glory to God for His greatness. He did not extol himself. David got help from Hiram, king of Tyre, to build his palace, who sent cedar trees, carpenters, and masons. (II Samuel 5:11-12; I Chronicles 14:1-2) By extolling God, David taught three leadership lessons.
Extolled God for establishing him: God called David from being a shepherd of a flock to shepherd the people of God. (Psalm 78:70-72) Though he did not have any formal training as a soldier, God trained his fingers and arms to fight enemies, including Goliath. (Psalm 144:1) God calls people to leadership; they are neither appointed by parents nor by the people. God equips those whom He has chosen, called, and appointed for ministry.
Extolled God for His Kingdom: David extolled God because the Kingdom belonged to the Lord and not him. God is the Sovereign Ruler of the whole earth. All kingdoms belong to Him. It is his prerogative to appoint leaders. The leaders are temporary stewards, serving God. The pastors and ministry leaders should understand that the Vineyard, the Kingdom, and the local ministry belong to God alone. Stewards in the Kingdom of God are servants and slaves, and not owners.
Extolled God for using him: David was satisfied, grateful, and excited for being God’s instrument of righteousness, blessing to the people of God, and contributing to the Kingdom of God. God gave talents, resources, gifts, opportunities, connections, and open doors for His Kingdom and His Glory alone. They are not for self-aggrandizement or self-glory. The call and blessings are to edify the church, expand the church, and extend the Kingdom of God.
Do I extol God like David, for choosing us for His Kingdom, and making a channel of blessings?