(1 Chr 16:43) . . . and David returned to bless his house.
David was at the height of his experience as a king. He had ascended the throne, chosen brave men for his army, defeated his foes, and provided safety and security for the land. Now his consideration was to bring the ark of the covenant into the tabernacle. And so he did with great rejoicing with God’s people. And when it was all over and done he returned to bless his house.
What an interesting insight into David’s life. After all his achievements in the different areas of his life, he returned to his house to be a blessing there, too. He was the king over Israel but he was also a husband and father. He ruled the kingdom but he didn’t forget his own family domain.
We as men just have it in us to conquer our world. As kids we did just that with board games like Battleship and Risk. In sports it was always to finish in first place. Eventually it was to conquer that girl’s heart. In college it was to get those grades. In the business world it’s about getting that job that will provide a career towards a secure future. And don’t forget those projects and hobbies and fun experiences a man feeds on. And our poor wives. Will they ever forgive us for those trips to the mall with them? We don’t shop . . . we hunt! It’s not about strolling through a mall that’s a mile long. It’s about acquiring and then getting out of there!
For men it’s all about hustle and muscle. It’s about sweat and success. Punching our way to prosperity and standing in victory with hands up high and saying, “Yo! I did it!!”
But how can a man bring his success out in the world into the home? By returning to bless his house like David. Because that man realizes that a man’s success begins at home. That it would be such an empty feeling to have the praise of the world without the honor of his own family.
Men . . . before we win the world let’s make sure we’re winning our own families first.
(Psa 128:1-4) Blessed is every one who fears the LORD, Who walks in His ways. 2 When you eat the labor of your hands, You shall be happy, and it shall be well with you. 3 Your wife shall be like a fruitful vine In the very heart of your house, Your children like olive plants All around your table. 4 Behold, thus shall the man be blessed Who fears the LORD.
Louie