In my devotions today I read 2 Samuel 12:13 that says “Then David confessed to Nathan, ‘I have sinned against the Lord.’ Nathan replied, ‘Yes, but the Lord has forgiven you, and you won’t die for this sin.’”

When you think about it, David did a lot of bad things in his life, but God still blessed him despite all that.  Though we tend to think of King David as someone God really blessed, the reality is David had his share of suffering and hard times:  he had some serious family catastrophes, spent time hiding from people who wanted to kill him, and he was always at war. Still, I think David was one of God’s favorites.

This morning I found myself comparing my life to King David’s …

 In the sin department, I’m not sure whether he “out sinned” me or not – it’s probably too close to call.  Yet God has forgiven me just like He has David.

As for hardships in life, David had to live with some troubles and personal tragedy for long periods of time.  I, too, have had hardships – maybe not to the same depth of sorrow and hardship as David had, but still, I’ve had my share.

As for blessing, David sure was blessed:  victories in battle, crowned king of the country, wealth and riches.  He lived life at the top!  As for me, my wife is amazing, my family loves me unconditionally, I have a church that supports and cares for me, I live comfortably, and I enjoy life and what I have.

Conclusion:  King David and I come out pretty much tied in all these areas.

So, why do I look at specific (and sometimes small) things to determine if God is blessing me?  In the comparison I just did, I have to admit, my life is just as blessed as David’s was.  But I don’t feel it – even now, I don’t feel it.

You know why? I think it’s because I want someone else’s blessing without their sin or hardship.  I just want blessing.  I only care about being blessed, and the blessings I have received don’t seem to count when I look around.  I just want a blessing I don’t have.

When I read about David, I think, “Wow, God really loved him!  David was really special to the Lord.”  But the fact is, I’m as blessed as David was.  That means God really loves me, and I’m really special to Him, as well.  David isn’t in some elite class all by himself. God treats me the same way.

So why am I not satisfied?  I think it comes down to the fact that I’m a taker; I’ll take all I can get.  I’m really not all that thankful – just bring me more.

This morning, after thinking about David’s life and blessings, I found myself praying:

“Thank you, Lord for all you bless me with.  Thank you for being with me in the times that are hard, and for not walking away from me when I sin.

Forgive me, Lord for being selfish and completely unreasonable in wanting blessing.  Forgive me for having a one-dimensional view of blessings (that it’s all about me).

Lord, help me to take great joy in your blessing.  Help me not to compare others’ blessings with my hardships.  Lord, may I see myself as You see me, just as I picture David.

Until Next Time!

Pastor Paul

Question: How do you measure the blessing of God on your life?  Leave your comments below.