PASTORS' DAILY DEVOTIONAL
May
04
04
The Fruit of a Life Well Lived
Craig Peterson
Scripture
2 Samuel 9:7 7So David said to him, “Do not fear, for I will surely show you kindness for Jonathan your father’s sake, and will restore to you all the land of Saul your grandfather; and you shall eat bread at my table continually.”
Observation
King David, at the height of his reign; at a time when he was directing troops and conquering the enemies of his people; remembered his faithful friend Jonathan. He remembered Jonathan’s kindness and loyalty. He took the time to seek out the remnant of Jonathan’s family that was left. And, for the sake of Jonathan, he greatly blessed Jonathan’s lame son in a way that no one could ever have imagined. He restored Mephibosheth’s inheritance. He invited him in to eat at the Kings table. He gave him servants. He included him as though he was family. Why? Because his father, Jonathan, had been a faithful and trusted friend. Jonathan lived a life of integrity that yielded blessing far beyond the years of his life.
Application
I never met either of my grandfathers. They both died years before I was born. But I have heard stories of my Mom’s dad from my family and from others I have met over the years. To a person, everyone who speaks of him speaks with loving memories and a tone of appreciation and gratitude. It’s as though the simple fact that I am his daughter’s son grants me perfect acceptance and honor with all who knew and worked with him. From well known pastors and Christian leaders to cowboy actors and entertainers; from Billy Graham to Roy Rodgers and Dale Evans. Really. It’s an amazing thing. My grandfather worked and served faithfully and honorably for his entire life. He lived his life in such a Godly and faithful way than his kids, grandkids and great-grandkids are still receiving the fruit of a life well lived. That is the kind of life I want to live!
Prayer
Lord, I pray that I will live my life so honorably that my life will yield blessing and favor for my kids, and their kids and beyond. Would you help me to live faithfully to you first, then to other whom I serve and serve with so that my years are multiplied and the return of the life I live benefits many generations of my family who are and are yet to come?
