The Success Of David

By

Dag Heward-Mills

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Copyright 2000 Dag Heward-Mills

Published By Dag Heward-Mills on Smashwords

Unless otherwise stated, all Scripture quotations are taken from the King James Version of the Bible.

E mail Dag Heward-Mills :

info@daghewardmillsbooks.org

evangelist@daghewardmills.org

Find out more about Dag Heward-Mills at:

http://www.daghewardmills.org/

http://www.daghewardmills.org/lci/

http://www.daghewardmills.org/healingjesuscrusade/

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Contents

Chapter 1. Was David Successful?

Chapter 2. Davidic Principles of Success # 1-4

Chapter 3. Davidic Principles of Success # 5-8

Chapter 4. Davidic Principles of Success # 9-12

Chapter 5. Davidic Principles of Success # 13-16

Chapter 6. Davidic Principles of Success # 17-19

Chapter 1

Was David Successful?

Was David a successful person? David was one of the most respected kings of all time. He was also a great psalmist and prophet. Above all, he was a man after God's own heart. Surely, that is a description of success. I believe that David achieved great success in his lifetime. You can read the Scriptures for yourself.

And he died in a GOOD OLD AGE, FULL OF DAYS, RICHES, and HONOUR: and Solomon his son reigned in his stead.

1 Chronicles 29:28

David had a long and eventful life. At the end of his life, he was rich, he was respected and he even had a successor-his own son, Solomon.

What an interesting description: full of age, full of riches, full of honour, and with a successor. David, however, did not get to this point easily. He suffered and struggled through many situations. Often, David came to crossroads and had to take important decisions. Many of the things he did as a young man contributed to his eventual outcome as a successful person.

The holy Scriptures teach us to learn from the examples of those who have gone ahead of us.

That ye be not slothful, but followers of them who through faith and patience inherit the promises.

Hebrews 6:12

The Bible is a practical book; it does not shield the mistakes of people, neither does it cover up the faults of mighty men. David is a person we can learn from today. In this book, I will share with you a few secrets that I believe helped David to become one of the most respected kings and prophets of all time!

Chapter 2

Davidic Principles of Success #1 – 4

The Principle of Small Beginnings

And Eliab his eldest brother heard when he spake unto the men; and Eliab's anger was kindled against David, and he said, Why camest thou down hither? and with whom hast thou left those few sheep in the wilderness?…

1 Samuel 17:28

David's brother made a derogatory remark about David's work. He spoke critically of the few sheep that David was handling.

In ministry, I have noticed that people do not want to begin in a small way. The only thing many know how to do is to "break the legs" of the pastor under whom they are working. Through deception, they draw away an entire section of the church and then use those people to start their own ministry.

A minister once approached me and sneeringly spoke of a Lighthouse church that had just a few members. I realized that this man of God did not know how to begin a church. He did not realize that the thousands of people, who are attending Lighthouse Chapel today, grew out of three or four original members.

Do not be afraid of small beginnings; God will lift you up. You will benefit from all the experiences you have had in your small beginnings. It was when David was looking after the few sheep that he had a fight with a bear and a lion. It is because he was used to fighting impossible situations that he was able to take on Goliath.

When you have preached a thousand times to a hundred people, you will not wet your pants in fright when God lifts you up to minister to a crowd of one thousand.

I have preached so many times, that preaching is now much easier for me. I have preached in difficult atmospheres. I have ministered in hostile environments. I have preached to powerful politicians. I have ministered where people despised me. I have preached when people jeered and hooted at me. I've also ministered where they have cheered me on. There is hardly any atmosphere that I have not experienced. Many of these experiences were in small settings. This has helped me prepare for the ministry I have today.

Don't Rush Success

Why are you in a hurry to be successful? It is easier to make mistakes in front of a small crowd than a large one. Practise your business and ministry with small crowds.

If you make a mistake with a hundred dollars, it will be easier for you to recover than if you make that same mistake with a hundred thousand dollars.

Any businessman who is able to succeed with a small amount of money can succeed with a larger amount of money. Smallness is a necessary stage in the kingdom of God. It is a necessary stage for every business executive. It humbles you and makes you trust in God.

Jesus taught us three principles of progress:

a) The principle of being faithful with small things (Luke 16:10).

b)The principle of being faithful with another man's things.(Luke 16:12).

c)The principle of being faithful with money (Luke 16:11).

You cannot circumvent any one of these laws. Start small and harden your forehead. Avoid people who would laugh at you and despise you. Stay with those who believe in you. Do not tell people what you are doing if they do not respect you. You can make it! God is on your side! God is with you! The Greater One is with you and in you!

Do not run away from small beginnings. They are God's training ground for you. That is how King David got his education- in the school of small beginnings!

The Principle of Doing Menial Jobs with Joy

And David came to Saul, and stood before him: and he loved him greatly; and he became his ARMOURBEARER.

1 Samuel 16:21

When studying the life of David, you soon learn that though he became king, he first performed many menial jobs. In his father's house, he was a shepherd. Whilst at the king's palace, he did the work of a musician, servant, errand boy and armour-bearer. He wasn't even a soldier! There are so many Christians who want to start out on top! But the only job that begins at the top is grave digging!

If you study the background of many great people, you will discover that they once served at the lowest level in their profession. I have done nearly every kind of menial job in the church. I was a drummer, organist, cleaner and odd job man. All these have helped me to be a better leader. Do not shy away from menial jobs.

The best leader is someone who has been a follower for many years. Because you have done menial jobs, you are more reasonable with your subordinates. You understand what they are going through and do not give impossible commands. Some leaders do not know the implications of their instructions. They just say, "Get this done!" You must understand that getting certain things done may have far-reaching implications.

The Principle of Turning away from Those Who Despise You

…ELIAB'S ANGER WAS KINDLED AGAINST DAVID, and he said, Why camest thou down hither? and with whom hast thou left those few sheep in the wilderness? I know thy pride, and the naughtiness of thine heart; for thou art come down that thou mightest see the battle. And David said, What have I now done? Is there not a cause? And HE TURNED FROM HIM TOWARD ANOTHER…

1 Samuel 17:28-30

This Scripture describes the persecution David faced from his brothers. Eliab, obviously intimidated by David, hurled insults at him just when he was about to fight with Goliath. The world has two types of people: those who believe in you and those who have no confidence in you. Learn to turn away from people who despise you.

When I began my ministry in 1987, many people despised me. Up until today, there are groups of people who think evil of me. They speak evil about me in their homes.

That they may SHOOT IN SECRET at the perfect: suddenly do they shoot at him, and fear not. They encourage themselves in an evil matter: they commune of LAYING SNARES PRIVILY…

Psalm 64:4, 5

I can always tell when someone despises me at heart. Rejection is a spiritual thing.

Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try [test] the spirits whether they are of God…

1 John 4:1

Every leader should learn to detect the spirit of critical and hateful people. Rejection is a spiritual thing and can be discerned spiritually.

I once spoke to a doctor in the USA. I told him, "You have never believed in me. When we were medical students in Accra, you despised me."

He answered, "How did you know?"

"What you are saying is true," he continued, "Somehow in those days, I didn't like what you were doing. But now, I have come to appreciate your ministry."

I had always known that this fellow despised me. Though he never said much to me, I knew it in my spirit. Just like David, I turned away from him and "flowed" with those who believed in me. No one can flourish in an environment of despisement.

In some churches, professionals are neither regarded nor respected as far as the ministry is concerned. If you are a lawyer, doctor or accountant, the ministers may consider you incapable of ministry work. I advise such people to attend a church where they can be involved in ministry without being despised. Some full-time ministers simply do not recognize the role of lay people.

In some places, poor and uneducated people are despised. It is important to turn away from an environment where you are despised. You can only flourish where people respect and love you.

The Principle of Choosing and Staying with What You Have Tested

And Saul armed David with his armour…And David said unto Saul, I CANNOT GO WITH THESE; FOR I HAVE NOT PROVED THEM. And David put them off him. And he took his staff in his hand, and chose him five smooth stones…and his sling was in his hand: and he drew near to the Philistine.

1 Samuel 17:38-40

This was the turning point in David's ministry. He had an opportunity to have his greatest breakthrough - it was a matter of do or die! As he went forth, he was to make one of the most important decisions of his life: to wear Saul's armour or not! He decided against wearing Saul's armour and opted for his slingshot with just five smooth stones. In this act, you see the principle of choosing what you have tested.

Marry the Person You Know!

I marvel at the behaviour of certain Christian men. They behave normally up until the time they are about to get married. Instead of marrying someone whom they know, they go for a mysterious personality whom nobody knows. They choose a young lady who they know very little about. David refused to use Saul's armour because he hadn't tested it. How can you marry someone you hardly know?

Surely, there are some nice people in the church whom you can marry! It is important to marry someone who has a good reputation in the church.

There are Christians who are infected with HIV. If you make a mistake, you could end up marrying an infected person!

Your Slingshot Will Lead You to Victory

One of the most important decisions I took in my life was in choosing whom to marry. The lady I decided to marry was someone I had known for years. I knew her character and background. I knew a lot about her. If you really plan to win the battle against Goliath, don't use Saul's armour! That may be the prescribed and ordained method, but using that which is familiar to you will help you to be victorious!

In business, every field is different. I have been a sand and stone contractor and a transport business owner. I am familiar with those two areas of business. If I were to conduct business, I would not try to export pineapples. I would stay with what I know. Stay with the five smooth stones that have brought you victory in the past. If you use them in the day of your greatest challenge, you shall prosper!

I know many of my church members from my secondary school days. They've also known me throughout the years. If you are a church member or a pastor, go for someone that you've known for a number of years. Choose someone whose character you can vouch for.

Chapter 3

Davidic Principles of Success # 5-8

The Principle of Ministering to Others

And it came to pass, when the evil spirit from God was upon Saul, that DAVID TOOK AN HARP, AND PLAYED WITH HIS HAND: SO SAUL WAS REFRESHED, and was well, and the evil spirit departed from him.

1 Samuel 16:23

If you want to be successful in this life, decide to be a blessing to others. This will unlock gates for blessings to flow into your life.

The most successful people in the world have often played a vital role in someone else's life. Perhaps they were doctors who saved the sick. Maybe they were pastors who ministered to the needs of the people. Perhaps they produced something that benefited millions of people.

David took advantage of the opportunity to minister to Saul. Whenever evil spirits came to torment Saul, David refreshed him by playing the harp and singing unto the Lord. He suddenly became useful to Saul and his kingdom. Are you useful to anyone? Your value rises with your usefulness!

There are some Christians who just say, "Give me, give me, give me." When are you going to start giving something? When are you going to be a blessing to somebody? Jesus is so valuable to all of us because He saved our souls by giving His life.

David's value rapidly increased after he helped Saul in his time of demonic affliction. Take up your opportunity of counselling people and sharing the Word of God. Take up the responsibility of ministering to others. I notice how people shy away from doing God's work. They feel it will be a bother. They feel it will keep them away from succeeding in their secular field. What a mistake! They don't realize that as they help others, they become more valuable to society. The more valuable you are, the more important you will be.

The Principle of Fellowship and Non-Isolation

But all Israel and Judah loved David, because HE WENT OUT AND CAME IN BEFORE THEM.

1 Samuel 18:16

Fellowship is a very important part of success. The more you interact with godly people, the more godliness will rub off unto you. The more you interact with successful people, the more successful you will become.

David did not isolate himself. He kept in touch and that helped him immensely. Ministers are often tempted to isolate themselves permanently from other ministers. This is because many people who should be your brothers are often your competitors and rivals. In spite of this, it is helpful to interact and to fellowship. In fact, the Bible teaches us that this is a sign that you are a Christian.

We know that we have passed from death unto life, because WE LOVE THE BRETHREN. He that loveth not his brother abideth in death.

1 John 3:14

If you are doing well in life, you will often be found fellowshipping.

But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, WE HAVE FELLOWSHIP ONE WITH ANOTHER, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.

1 John 1:7

Don't stay away. Relate with people ahead of you. Befriend successful people. You will become a blessed person because you have made the right associations.

The Principle of Avoiding Arrows of Hatred

And the evil spirit from the Lord was upon Saul, as he sat in his house with his javelin in his hand: and David played with his hand. And Saul sought to smite David even to the wall with the javelin; but he slipped away out of Saul's presence, and he smote the javelin into the wall: and David fled, and escaped that night.

1 Samuel 19:9,10

Anyone whom God has blessed will begin to have arrows of hatred and jealousy thrown at him. You may do good and only good, but you will be hated because of your success. This is part of life. It is your duty to avoid the arrows of hatred.

Arrows of Hatred

Our church was once attacked by an armed mob of assailants. On a previous attack, my office was bombed and burnt down. These people seemed to have secret, powerful backing because anytime the police arrested them, they were promptly released with orders from "above". These arrows or bombs were being thrown at the church. All of these attacks were manifestations of hatred against the church and my ministry. On numerous occasions, these violent attacks were shown on national television.

When our problem became a national issue, many people advised me to go on television or radio talk shows to explain our side of the problem. But I knew in my spirit that that would be a mistake! Many people just wanted me to make the mistake of saying something wrong so they could criticize me. When David had one spear thrown at him, he decided to run away. Perhaps this is the reason why David lived to a good old age.

When you see one arrow of Satan, you should know that there are many more out there primed to destroy you. If you sit in the same place, the next arrow will get you. There are times when it is wiser to run away than to stand and fight. One time the Pharisees wanted to kill Jesus. When Jesus got to know of it, he withdrew himself from that area.

Then the Pharisees went out, and held a council against him, how they might destroy him. But WHEN JESUS KNEW IT, HE WITHDREW HIMSELF from thence…

Matthew 12:14, 15

Young Christian men must know that they attract the arrows of Satan because of the gift of God in their lives. In fact, the Bible teaches that because of the anointing on your life, young ladies will be attracted to you.

Because of the savour of thy good ointments [anointing] thy name is as OINTMENT [anointing] poured forth, therefore do THE VIRGINS LOVE THEE.

Songs of Solomon 1:3

Young lady, because you are beautiful, many wicked and adulterous men are interested in you. Run away from those arrows immediately, otherwise, your whole life may be destroyed.

The Bible teaches that precious ministers are sought for by the devil. Anyone who is a precious instrument of God will be hunted after!

For by means of a whorish woman a man is brought to a piece of bread: and THE ADULTERESS WILL HUNT FOR THE PRECIOUS LIFE.

Proverbs 6:26

Years ago, some sisters were interested in me because of my gift. I didn't even know the danger I was in. Many sisters in Christ I ministered to were hearing wedding bells in addition to the Word of God. I would go around from house to house and room to room sharing the Word of God. Little did I know that some sisters were falling in love with me because of the anointing.

One day, the Lord instructed me to enter a relationship (unto marriage). All along I had been saying, "I will not marry for at least ten more years."

But the Lord spoke to me and said, "Your life is precious. You are walking in danger that you don't even know about."

He continued, "You don't know about the intricacies of a woman's heart and mind."

"Enter a relationship now," He said.

This is when I discovered the Scripture in Ecclesiastes 7:26. I have never forgotten it since then. God was actually telling me to escape from spears and arrows.

And I find more bitter than death the woman, whose heart is SNARES and NETS, and her hands as BANDS: whoso pleaseth God shall escape from her; but the sinner shall be taken by her.

Ecclesiastes 7:26

The Principle of Adapting for Progress

And David said unto Ahimelech the priest, The king hath commanded me a business, and hath said unto me, Let no man know anything of the business whereabout I send thee, and what I have commanded thee… Now therefore what is under thine hand? GIVE ME FIVE LOAVES OF BREAD IN MINE HAND, OR WHAT THERE IS PRESENT.

1 Samuel 21:2, 3

In the passage of Scripture above, you will realize that David acted like a poor man. In the Scripture quoted below, David pretended to be a mad man.

And David arose, and fled that day for fear of Saul, and went to Achish the king of Gath. And he changed his behaviour before them, and FEIGNED HIMSELF MAD in their hands, and scrabbled on the doors of the gate, AND LET HIS SPITTLE FALL DOWN UPON HIS BEARD.

1 Samuel 21:10, 13

Was he really mad? No. He was the king's son-in-law. He was from a good family. He was certainly not out of his mind. However, for that occasion, David had to behave like a mad man in order to survive.

I constantly marvel at how some Christians are unable to adapt in order to breakthrough in life. You may have to do without a car for a season so that you can have fewer bills to pay. You may have to live in a smaller apartment so that you can save some money.

Many people want to impress the outside world at all costs. There are many that thought our church, the Lighthouse Chapel International, was non-existent for about ten years. We hardly advertised and rarely spent money on expensive outward things.

There were times I would arrive unnoticed in my old Renault car. People took no notice of me. Long ago, our church could have bought ten Mercedes Benz cars of different colours for me if I wanted that. But I have not seen the need for such a purchase. We have rather invested that money in church buildings and evangelistic projects.

Today, people think that Lighthouse Chapel is rich. Years ago, I compared the income of our church with the income of other churches and I noted that it was relatively lower. The leadership of the church was prepared to adapt to a lower standard of living so that the ministry could move ahead into prosperity.

I Adapted to Student Living

When I started our church in Geneva, I lived in a students' hostel. I also lived in that hostel anytime I was in Geneva. I lived in the hostel and bathed in a common bathroom with the rest of the boarders. There were all sorts of weird looking people around the bathroom everyday.

One person once commented, "I find it amazing that you Lighthouse pastors live like school boys or students when you come to Europe."

I just smiled. Instead of paying outrageous hotel bills, we adapted ourselves to student life and saved a lot of money.

It amazes me that when someone is successful, people hate him all the more. They call him names. They say that he is proud. But they never look closely enough to see what is making that person successful. Apostle Paul said, "I adapt to all men in order that I may win some people to Christ."

To the weak became I as weak...I AM MADE ALL THINGS TO ALL MEN, that I might by all means save some.

1 Corinthians 9:22

David adapted. Paul adapted. Why can't you adapt?

Years ago, I took note of something a prominent minister did. His church was going through some hard times. The income had dropped and the membership was falling. This man of God, who had been used to a certain upper-class lifestyle, did not realize that he had to quickly adapt to the prevailing conditions. I heard that he had rented a huge mansion with several bedrooms. The rent was enormous. I thought to myself, "How will this man pay his rent?"

But that was not all. He had a perfectly functioning Toyota, but he decided to sell it and use a Mercedes Benz. I learnt that the Mercedes Benz gave him no end of problems. In the end, this man of God was left without a car and was eventually ejected from his large house. However, his crisis only deepened! This pastor began to hire taxis and could not pay the bills. Soon he owed money to several taxi drivers. Today, after having a large church in his city, he is left with about twenty people in his congregation.

Perhaps, if this man had adapted during the hard times, he would still be successful in ministry today. There is no need to impress anyone with a car or a house. It is not the car that is important; it is the one who is in it that matters!

Chapter 4

Davidic Principles of Success # 9-12

The Principle of Behaving Wisely When You Are Blessed

And David BEHAVED HIMSELF WISELY in all his ways; and the Lord was with him. Wherefore when Saul saw that he BEHAVED HIMSELF VERY WISELY, he was afraid of him. Then the princes of the Philistines went forth: and it came to pass, after they went forth, that David BEHAVED HIMSELF MORE WISELY than all the servants of Saul; so that his name was much set by.

1 Samuel 18:14, 15, 30

At different times of your life, God will bless you and lift you up. Many people think that problems belong to those who are poor and defeated. You will notice that David's problems did not begin until after he killed Goliath. After one breakthrough came a host of problems. But the Bible says that David behaved himself wisely. It is important to walk in wisdom when the Lord has promoted you.

Anytime I go to Takoradi, a city in Ghana, my wife points out some buildings to me; buildings which were inherited by a certain family. Although their father left them a lot of wealth and property, that family is now penniless and at the mercy of others. Although they inherited a lot of money, it did not benefit them. Perhaps they did not know how to handle their newly found riches. They misused what they inherited until they had to sell all their properties to pay their debts.

The problem with many Christians is that they do not know how to behave themselves when they are blessed. Some young ladies backslide as soon as they get married. They forget that God gave them their husband. They no longer attend all-night prayer meetings. They want to stay away from the church. Never forget that the Lord gave you everything you have. Learn to behave wisely every time the Lord blesses you!

Let's Not Bother Tonight

One Christian lady told me of how she backslid after her marriage. She and her husband were serious Christians who used to be at every meeting.

She told me, "It is my fault. At a point during our marriage, I stopped coming for prayer meetings with my husband."

She told me how one night when she was lying in bed with her husband, he turned to her and said, "Is it not time for the all-night?"

She told him, "Oh let's not bother tonight."

She did that a few times until her husband backslid spiritually. Why do people fall away when they are blessed by God? Why do you have to stop going for all-night prayer meetings just because you are married? It is time to know how to behave wisely after the breakthrough comes.

Remember the testimony of the prodigal son. Many people think that it was only the younger brother who received an inheritance. Study your Bible carefully. You will see that both of them received an inheritance. Both of them were blessed equally by their father.

... A certain man had two sons: And the younger of them said to his father, Father, give me the portion of goods that falleth to me. And HE DIVIDED UNTO THEM HIS LIVING.

Luke 15:11, 12

Why is it that some people go wild after receiving a blessing? They no longer attend church, they no longer serve God, and they no longer do the right things. This prodigal boy received an inheritance. He spent his money on harlots and riotous living. With experience, I have seen that many people do not prosper because they do not use the opportunities that God gives them wisely.

Some African countries are plagued with governments that enrich themselves upon arrival in office. Like vampires, they drink the blood of the nation's wealth and leave peanuts for the nation's masses. Any nation that has vampires in leadership is doomed. These governments must behave wisely, and understand that they are fortunate to be in power.

Woe to thee, O land, when THY KING IS A CHILD, and THY PRINCES EAT IN THE MORNING!

Ecclesiastes 10:16

This Scripture teaches that blessings abound for those that can wait to take their benefits at the right time. This is the principle of delayed rewards. If you buy that expensive car at the wrong time of your life, repairing it and buying fuel for it will be like drawing blood out of your body. It will cost you your life.

I believe in the best for myself, but I wait for the right time to enjoy the blessings that are legitimately mine.

Apostle Paul said that many privileges were his to enjoy. Yet he explained, "I have used none of these things."

Have we not power to eat and to drink? But I HAVE USED NONE OF THESE THINGS: neither have I written these things, that it should be done unto me: for it were better for me to die, than that any man should make my glorying void.

1 Corinthians 9:4, 15

Although Paul was blessed to have the support of the Church, he deliberately avoided using many of these privileges. A privilege will turn into a snare if you jump into it too quickly.

The Principle of Seeing People in the Right Way

And he said unto his men, The Lord forbid that I should do this thing unto MY MASTER, the Lord's anointed, to stretch forth mine hand against him, seeing he is the ANOINTED OF THE LORD. David also arose afterward, and went out of the cave, and cried after Saul, saying, MY LORD THE KING…Moreover, MY FATHER…

1 Samuel 24:6,8,11

In this passage, David spoke about King Saul to his subordinates. What struck me about David's speech was the way he referred to the king. At one point, he called him, "My lord." At other times, he called him, "My king", "My master", and even "My father."

He could have called him a demon-possessed man. He could have referred to him as the demoniac. We all know that Saul had a problem with evil spirits. We all know that King Saul was a fallen man of God. Everyone knew that the anointing had departed. Yet, David gave Saul the honour and referred to him in a spiritual and honourable way.

Some people think that titles are not important. I think that titles have a role to play, especially in a big organization. Whatever you think about titles, one of the good things they do is that they help you to see whom you are dealing with. They help you to remember at all times who you are and who you are not!

Because David constantly reminded himself that he was dealing with the anointed king, it was difficult for him to strike the Lord's anointed. As you associate with a man of God, familiarity may make you forget whom you are with. David never forgot that Saul was his master. David never forgot that Saul was his father-in-law. David did not allow himself to forget that he was dealing with an anointed man of God. This, I believe, was one of the secrets of David's success.

If David had killed Saul, it would have been because he felt justified to kill a demonized and fallen man of God. He would have thought that he was helping God to eliminate this disgraceful man. Of course, killing a raving lunatic is perceived as different from killing God's servant. However, David never allowed himself to see Saul in the wrong way.

Notice that David's respect for Saul's office was maintained until the very end. When David heard of Saul's death, notice how he spoke of Saul. He referred to him as the "mighty".

How are the MIGHTY fallen in the midst of the battle! O Jonathan thou wast slain in thine high places.

2 Samuel 1:25

David went on and described Saul as the beauty of Israel.

THE BEAUTY OF ISRAEL is slain upon thy high places: how are the mighty fallen!

2 Samuel 1:19

This is remarkable considering how Saul had deteriorated in life. I believe that years later, this act of seeing King Saul in the right way saved David's life.

David had taught his men that kings and other anointed people are not to be murdered. The unspoken message that came through David's actions was loud and clear. Do not touch the Lord's anointed, no matter what! Years later, when David himself made a mistake and killed Uriah, he opened the door for a possible retaliatory act. Uriah the Hittite was one of the mighty men of God. You will find him listed as the last of David's mighty warriors.

These be the names of THE MIGHTY MEN whom David had…URIAH THE HITTITE: thirty and seven in all.

2 Samuel 23:8,39

Since David had killed one of these mighty men, the other mighty men could have retaliated. They could have justified the murder of King David saying, "He's a fallen man of God." They could have said, "We know him. He's an adulterer and a murderer."

But David had taught them by example, not to strike at the Lord's anointed.

In today's world, it is important to perceive the Lord's anointed as they truly are. It is important both in private and in public to refer to your pastor in an honourable way. If you call him "Joe Diggy" when you speak about him in private that is what he will be to you.

If you refer to him as "my pastor" or "my father", that is what he will be to you. You must realize that faith comes by hearing. What you hear yourself say repeatedly affects your faith. Remember that God will often bless you through a man of God. God's method is to use men as channels and vessels of blessing.

Paul said, "Henceforth, know we no man after the flesh." In other words, I do not see people through the eyes of my flesh anymore.

Wherefore henceforth know we no man after the flesh: yea, though we have known Christ after the flesh, yet now henceforth know we him no more.

2 Corinthians 5:16

If you see someone as a friend, classmate or an equal, then that is what he will be to you. The most important way to relate with a person is spiritually.

The reason why many wives cannot receive from their husband pastors is because they see them as marriage mates, lovers, equals and so on. Learn to keep a spiritual perspective of the people you are dealing with. It will keep you on safe ground all the time.

The Principle of Not Violating Fathers

And he said unto his men, THE LORD FORBID THAT I SHOULD DO THIS THING UNTO MY MASTER, the Lord's anointed, to stretch forth mine hand against him, seeing he is the anointed of the Lord.

1 Samuel 24:6

One of the spirits at work in the world of ministry tries to cut off fathers from children. Surprisingly, many fathers do not flow with their children. One of the secrets of success is to honour both your natural and spiritual fathers, until the very end. God knows that many fathers do not live up to standard. However, He expects a certain honour to flow from children to the fathers. Just accept it! The promise is clear. If you honour your father it will be well with you and you will live long on the surface of the earth.

HONOUR THY FATHER and mother; which is the first commandment with promise; that IT MAY BE WELL WITH THEE, and THOU MAYEST LIVE LONG ON THE EARTH.

Ephesians 6:2,3

There are many fathers who can and do provoke their children greatly. Children should be careful not to retaliate, even under extreme provocation.

And, ye fathers, PROVOKE NOT your children to wrath…

Ephesians 6:4

I have been provoked many times by fathers; both natural and spiritual fathers. It has been one of my greatest commitments to honour these fathers in the midst of betrayal and direct attacks. It is not easy to honour some fathers, but I believe that it leads to God's blessing and favour.

David's father was throwing spears at him. David's father was trying to kill his son-in-law. I have had people who were supposed to be my fathers, try to destroy me in ministry. Unbelievable things occur in the ministry! I see them as great temptations of the devil. I believe that David stood at the crossroads of his life when he had the opportunity to kill Saul. Overcoming that temptation was one of the greatest breakthroughs of his entire ministry.

That is why this story is given so much prominence in the Bible. Decide not to attack a father in this life. Do not destroy your future. No matter how evil a father may seem to be, leave him to God!

The Principle of Listening to Advice

And David said to Abigail, Blessed be the Lord God of Israel, which sent thee this day to meet me: And BLESSED BE THY ADVICE, and blessed be thou, which hast kept me this day from coming to shed blood, and from avenging myself with mine own hand.

1 Samuel 25:32, 33

In this Scripture, you see David about to make a mistake. He was going to attack innocent people. Nabal had been very ungrateful to David for his services. It was the advice of Abigail that saved the day. Once again, if King David had shed blood in his early days it could have become an embarrassment and curse to him. This would have followed him throughout his reign as king.

David said to Abigail, "Blessed be thy advice." Thank God for people who give good advice. Be open to people's advice. Even when your enemy is speaking, take note of what he is saying. Advice is one of the cheapest ways to move ahead in life.

There are many people who advise me. I have lawyers, architects, engineers, doctors and businessmen who make a great input into my life. I am the leader, so I have to take the decision. However, I want to know what everybody thinks before I take the decision. Sometimes even children can give you good advice. There is a mystery about good advice. The one who is advising sees the issues very clearly and simply. Often, the one who is receiving the advice does not believe that things are as simple as that. Open your spirit to be able to see when good advice is coming your way.

Chapter 5

Davidic Principles of Success # 13-16

The Principle of Allowing God to Work Things Out

And David said to Abishai, DESTROY HIM NOT: for who can stretch forth his hand against the Lord's anointed, AND BE GUILTLESS?

1 Samuel 26:9

David said something that I think everyone should learn from. In this passage, David reveals his inner thoughts. He said, "Even though King Saul is fighting against me, I will not kill him myself." However, David was not stupid!

He knew that for the prophecies to come to pass, Saul had to die. However, he was not going to be the person to kill Saul.

The Lord forbid that I should stretch forth mine hand against the Lord's anointed: but, I pray thee, take thou now the spear that is at his bolster, and the cruse of water, and let us go.

1 Samuel 26:11

He gave several options about how the prophecy concerning his kingship would happen. There was no way that David could become king as long as there was a king on the throne. David gave three options about how his dream of kingship and freedom could come to pass.

David said furthermore, As the Lord liveth, THE LORD SHALL SMITE HIM; or HIS DAY SHALL COME TO DIE; or HE SHALL DESCEND INTO BATTLE, AND PERISH.

1 Samuel 26:10

First, he said that the Lord would strike Saul down supernaturally. The second possibility was that Saul would eventually die naturally. David said, "His day shall come to die."

The third possibility was that the king could be killed in a battle. It is interesting to note that the Lord worked out the plan for David's kingship through the third option. Saul was indeed killed in a battle. The point that I am making is that David did not get invloved in the implementation of God's master plan. He left it to God and kept his hands clean!

Everyone could see that God was doing His own thing. We need to trust God for His perfect plan to materialize.

When you get involved and try to help God, you create Ishmaels who rise up to challenge your Isaacs.

And Moses said unto the people, Fear ye not, STAND STILL, AND SEE THE SALVATION OF THE LORD, which he will shew to you today: for the Egyptians whom ye have seen today, ye shall see them again no more forever. THE LORD SHALL FIGHT FOR YOU, and ye shall hold your peace.

Exodus 14:13, 14

Pastors must know that if God wants certain people to be in their churches, there is no need to steal them from another congregation. Perhaps the Lord will bring them to your church through one circumstance or another. Just leave it to God. Do not get involved in any unethical dealings with another pastor's church members.

If God wants you to marry that man, it will work out. Ladies, there is no need to throw yourself at a man for him to notice you.

After four years of marriage, one man told his wife, "You forced yourself on me! I never even had the chance to think about it properly." Perhaps this man would have found her anyway. But because she forced herself on him, he was wondering whether he made the right decision. It is time to allow God to work things out Himself. Keep your hands clean!

The Principle of Not Allowing Rebels into Your Life

One of the interesting events of David's life was when he put to death the man who claimed to have killed Saul in battle.

And David called one of the young men, and said, Go near, and fall upon him. And he smote him that he died. And David said unto him, Thy blood be upon thy head; for THY MOUTH HATH TESTIFIED AGAINST THEE, SAYING, I HAVE SLAIN THE LORD'S ANOINTED.

2 Samuel 1:15, 16

Another remarkable event was when he executed the men who killed King Ishbosheth.

When one told me, saying, Behold, Saul is dead, thinking to have brought good tidings, I took hold of him, and slew him in Ziklag, who thought that I would have given him a reward for his tidings: And DAVID COMMANDED HIS YOUNG MEN, AND THEY SLEW THEM, and cut off their hands and their feet, and hanged them up over the pool in Hebron. But they took the head of Ishbosheth, and buried it…

2 Samuel 4:10, 12

Everybody knew that King Saul's existence prevented David from fulfilling his dream of becoming king. The people who claimed to have killed Saul and his son Ishbosheth thought they were doing David a great favour. I believe that one of the major secrets of David's success was to eliminate those people immediately. Once a "king killer" always a "king killer". Remember that he who criticizes others to you, will criticize you to others. David knew that these people would be dangerous to have around him. They had the ability to kill their leaders.

I have learnt that a person who is loyal to someone else is likely to be loyal to me. Years ago, a pastor joined me from another ministry. He had faithfully served another minister in London for about ten years. Due to certain circumstances, he was forced to leave London and settle in another country. That was when I met him. He made a decision to work under my ministry. The one thing that impressed me about this man was that he never spoke negatively about the church he had belonged to for the previous ten years.

Although he was greatly impressed with our ministry, there was no time when a sarcastic or disloyal statement came from his mouth about his former pastor. This is a very important sign indeed. It means this person is likely to behave in the same way towards a new "boss". Do not think that you are special. If a man throws his wife outside the gate and you happen to be the new mistress, do not think you will receive any better treatment.

Be careful of wicked, erratic, and disloyal people. What they did to another, they will do to you one day. David prevented his own assassination by immediately eliminating traitors and rebels. A person with traitorous tendencies can practise them on any new master. Move with loyal people. Stay with the few whom you can trust. It is better to have a few loyal people than many treacherous and dangerous people around you.

The Principle of Being Led by the Spirit

Therefore DAVID ENQUIRED OF THE LORD, saying, Shall I go and smite these Philistines? And the Lord said unto David, Go and smite the Philistines, and SAVE KEILAH. Then DAVID ENQUIRED OF THE LORD YET AGAIN. And the Lord answered him, and said, Arise, go down to Keilah; for I will deliver the Philistines into thine hand.

1 Samuel 23:2, 4

One of the common phrases in the books of First and Second Samuel, is; "David enquired of the Lord". The principle of David inquiring of the Lord for direction is one that is important for all of us today.

David defended the people of Keilah and delivered them from evil. When King Saul heard that David was in the city of the people of Keilah, he decided to attack. Naturally, you would have thought that the people of Keilah would protect David from Saul. David as a matter of routine inquired of the Lord.

THEN SAID DAVID, Will the men of Keilah deliver me and my men into the hand of Saul? And the Lord said, They will deliver thee up.

1 Samuel 23:12

To his surprise, the Lord told him that the people who he had just saved would betray him and hand him over to Saul. David must have been surprised when the Lord told him, "These people will be ungrateful to you. They will hand you over to Saul for your execution."

Do you realize that once again, David saved his life by this act of inquiring of the Lord? That is why I call these acts, principles of success. If David had not had these principles, his life would have been cut short. If David had not developed the habit of waiting on the Lord, he would have died as a young man. David's ministry would have ended years earlier if he had not used these important principles.

There are times that the Lord has shown me things that are contrary to my understanding. The ministry is a supernatural vocation. The fact that you use your mind to take decisions does not mean that you should not listen to the Holy Spirit. I use my mind a lot, but I also rely on the supernatural guidance of the Holy Spirit. Thank God for our minds. But the Holy Spirit is leading us everyday of our lives.

For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.

Romans 8:14

If it were not necessary for God to lead us by His Spirit, He would not waste His time. Listen to the voice of the Holy Spirit and you will walk into success.

The Principle of Having a Pastor

That the king said unto NATHAN THE PROPHET [his pastor], See now, I dwell in an house of cedar, but the ark of God dwelleth within curtains. And Nathan said to the king, Go, do all that is in thine heart; for the Lord is with thee. And it came to pass that night, that the word of the Lord came unto Nathan, saying, Go and tell my servant David, thus saith the Lord…

2 Samuel 7:2-5

David had a pastor. He had someone who could speak into his life spiritually. Having a pastor is different from belonging to a church. People may belong to a church but have no shepherd over their lives. Is there anyone who can speak into your life? There are many people in my church. I have found out that some of them want to receive counsel, whilst others do not. I do not just advise every "Tom, Dick and Harry" in the church. I speak to those who make it clear that they want that input.

David consulted his pastor, Nathan, when he wanted to build a temple. Nathan gave him good advice. Pastor Nathan later brought a specific word from the Lord concerning the temple. Later, when David fell into adultery, Pastor Nathan had the confidence to minister to the king. He knew that the king would not be offended. He knew that the king would receive it as the word of the Lord.

And the Lord sent Nathan unto David… And David's anger was greatly kindled against the man; and he said to Nathan, As the Lord liveth, the man that hath done this thing shall surely die... And Nathan said to David, THOU ART THE MAN… And DAVID SAID UNTO NATHAN, I HAVE SINNED AGAINST THE LORD. And Nathan said unto David, The Lord also hath put away thy sin; thou shalt not die.

2 Samuel 12:1, 5,7,13

I know that there are some people in my church who are living in the wrong way. I have even known of people with more than one wife. But I also realize that some of these people are not open to receive the pastor's counsel. I just preach and teach generally. If they make themselves open to a direct ministration from me, I will certainly tell them what the Word of God says. Everybody needs help but not everybody wants help!

David could have reacted by arresting Nathan. He could have told Nathan that he was having bad dreams and becoming too suspicious. Jeremiah the prophet was arrested several times because of the prophetic word he gave.

Now Pashur the son of Immer the priest, who was also chief governor in the house of the Lord heard that Jeremiah prophesied these things. Then Pashur smote Jeremiah the prophet, and put him in the stocks...

Jeremiah 20:1, 2

I once attended a government function. At this meeting, one of the government officials said the government wanted to hear the prophetic voice of the Church. When this government official said that, I thought, "Does this man know what he's saying? Would the Church not be branded as an enemy or "opposition" if it speaks out against wrongdoing in the government?" It is easy to say, "We want to hear the prophetic voice of God." But do we really want it?

Even Jesus withheld certain instructions from His disciples. He said to them, "I have many things to say but you cannot bear them so I will not say them."

I have yet many things to say unto you, but ye cannot bear them now.

John 16:12

Your ability to receive certain rebukes from the Lord is seen by the way you handled the earlier word you received. David had already demonstrated that he would be obedient to the voice of the Lord. That is why his pastor was bold enough to speak to him.

Chapter 6

Davidic Principles of Success # 17-19

Principle of Being Quick to See and Admit Mistakes

It is interesting to note that God describes David as a man after his own heart. We all know that David was far from being perfect. Could it be that God was not looking for perfection?

I believe that what makes us great in God's sight is the manner in which we deal with our mistakes. Almost every person in the Bible made mistakes. From Adam to Peter, the Bible is replete with stories of impeachable offences. Yet, God has been merciful to His children.

When Saul made a mistake, he was confronted by the pastor of his day. Notice how Saul argued with the prophet Samuel. He insisted that he had not done anything wrong.

Wherefore then didst thou not obey the voice of the Lord, but didst fly upon the spoil, and didst evil in the sight of the Lord? And SAUL SAID unto Samuel, YEA I HAVE OBEYED THE VOICE OF THE LORD… And Samuel said…Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice…Because thou hast rejected the word of the Lord, he hath also rejected thee from being king.

1 Samuel 15:19, 20, 22, 23

He argued that he had done the right thing. The evidence was there, yet he denied any wrongdoing. Compare this to David. When David was confronted by the pastor of his day (Nathan), he immediately said, "I have sinned." He admitted his wrongdoing, although no one could have even proved it.

Wherefore hast thou despised the commandment of the Lord, to do evil in his sight? Thou hast killed Uriah…and hast taken his wife to be thy wife… And DAVID SAID UNTO NATHAN, I HAVE SINNED AGAINST THE LORD. And Nathan said unto David, The Lord also hath put away thy sin; thou shalt not die.

2 Samuel 12:9, 13

From my experience with handling people, I know that these two types of people are found in everyday life. Decide to be a David who sees and admits faults easily. Remember this: Failure to admit faults is a manifestation of pride and stubbornness.

God does not like proud people. The Bible says that he resists the proud!

Principle of Being Merciful

And David said, Is there yet any that is left of the house of Saul, THAT I MAY SHEW HIM KINDNESS for Jonathan's sake?

2 Samuel 9:1

David said, "Is there anyone I can show kindness to?" God had blessed him. David remembered where he had come from. How many of us remember what God has done for us? We say that the Lord has been good to us, but do we remember the vessels through whom God blessed us?

David called on an old friend's son and showed him great kindness.

Now when Mephibosheth, the son of Jonathan, the son of Saul, was come… And David said unto him, Fear not: for I WILL SURELY SHEW THEE KINDNESS FOR JONATHAN THY FATHER'S SAKE…

2 Samuel 9:6, 7

The Bible tells us in Proverbs 3 that showing mercy is a key to finding favour and understanding from God.

Let not mercy and truth forsake thee: bind them about thy neck; write them upon the table of thine heart: So shalt thou find FAVOUR and GOOD UNDERSTANDING in the sight of God and man.

Proverbs 3:3, 4

If you want to receive the mercy of God in your lifetime, learn to be merciful. One of the great keys in helping us to be merciful people is to remember what we ourselves have been through.

I once discussed with some medical student friends what their plans were for the future. One of them indicated that he would return to the medical school as a wicked lecturer. Even though he had suffered at the hands of unreasonable lecturers, he was intending to do worse. I always wonder why people forget what it is like to be "under".

David did not forget what it was like to be "under". He called for those below and tried to lift them up to where he was. He raised up Mephibosheth, Jonathan's son, to sit at his table. It is time to remember those who are down and below! God will bless you as you help others to come to where you are! I wrote this book because I want to share with you what God has given to me. I want you to come up to the table that the Lord has prepared for all His children.

Principle of Being Religious

David was a very religious person. He did not leave spiritual things to the prophets and pastors alone. Although he was a king, his heart was in spiritual matters. You can see the type of person he was from the Psalms he wrote. David spoke of living in the temple of God. He thought of staying in church for long hours.

For A DAY IN THY COURTS is better than a thousand. I had rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God, than to dwell in the tents of wickedness.

Psalm 84:10

I WAS GLAD when they said unto me, Let us go into the house of the Lord.

Psalm 122:1

David organized the transfer of the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem. It was very important to him that these things were done. I believe that making God a central figure in your life is vital to success. David wanted to build a temple. He wanted to build a church. How many politicians and people of power, think about building the church? How many would say that they'd like to stay in church for long periods?

People with wealth and influence often fight against the church. They lift themselves up as proud and arrogant elements capable of destroying the church. Learn a lesson from David. His heart was in the church. His vision was to build God a grand temple. This is what I mean by being religious. No matter your profession, you can make God the centre of your activities. God is not blind. He will see and reward you because you love Him.

Psalm 91 tells us that because you have set your love on God, He will remember you in your time of trouble. He will lift you up and establish you. Let Jesus be the centre of your life and you will enjoy the blessings of Jehovah.

Because HE HATH SET HIS LOVE UPON ME, therefore will I deliver him: I will set him on high, because he hath known my name. He shall call upon me, and I will answer him: I WILL BE WITH HIM IN TROUBLE; I WILL DELIVER HIM, AND HONUR HIM. With long life will I satisfy him, and shew him my salvation.

Psalm 91:14-16

In conclusion, remember that not many people succeed in this life. It is wise to notice and to study the few that succeed. It is wise to learn from them and to tap into their secrets. Hebrews 6:12 teaches us to follow those who inherit the promises of God. David was one such person. My prayer is that you would experience success as you follow the principles that guided David!

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Other Best-Selling Books by Dag Heward-Mills:

*Loyalty and Disloyalty

Leaders and Loyalty

Transform Your Pastoral Ministry

The Art of Leadership

Model Marriage

Church Planting

*The Mega Church

*Lay People and the Ministry

*These titles are also available in Spanish and French. Information about other foreign translations of some of the titles above may be obtained by writing to our email address.

Table of Contents

Was David Successful?

Davidic Principles of Success #1 – 4

Davidic Principles of Success # 5-8

Davidic Principles of Success # 9-12

Davidic Principles of Success # 13-16

Davidic Principles of Success # 17-19