King Of the Hill
In the business world, many get to the top by climbing over people on the way. They want to be “king of the hill,” and nothing and nobody is going to stop them. But in the spiritual world, the goal isn’t to stand in power in front of shareholders: it is to stand in humility and inner strength before the Lord.
In the awkward time between his anointing and his coronation as king, David had many opportunities to take short cuts and compromise his integrity. Saul chased David and his men through the deserts and towns and on several occasions, David could have killed Saul and taken the throne immediately. His most trusted and loyal followers urged him to do just that. But each time, David refused to rush to success. He trusted God to accomplish His purposes in His timing. Through times of being misunderstood, attacked and betrayed David has “clean hands and a pure heart.” He trusted God even in the darkest days and he kept telling Him the truth.
One of the most significant features of David’s life was the loyalty of his men. In him, they saw a man they could trust, a man who spoke the unvarnished truth and followed God with his whole heart. Even before David became king of Israel, his character won the hearts of his men.
Among God’s people, being the “king of the hill” isn't a recommendation or a blessing. Diotrephes was “king of the hill” and John said he would “withstand him to the face.” Diotrephes is never praised. In the parable of the self-righteous Pharisee, he thought of himself as the “king of the hill”, but his prayer was not heard. However, when contrasted with the lowly or humble, we see they were the ones who were exalted. The lowly tax collector off in the corner saw the “king of the hill” denied.
Servants, simple servants, are the real “kings of the hill.” Theirs is not a longing for prominence but self-sacrifice and selfless service. They benefit others. They lift others. They take the lead in putting others first. They have “clean hands and a pure heart.” I am reminded of the household of Stephanas. They were addicted to service. Onesiphorus diligently and often sought Paul. The real kings of the hill pursue Jesus’ example and wash the feet of others.
It is not the one with power who is the “king of the hill.” It is the person who offers and serves for the good of others. No wonder Jesus said, to follow Him we must deny ourselves.
|
