BECAUSE OF GOD'S PEOPLE

1. Because Of God's People

a) So David became greater and greater, for the Lord God of heaven was with him. David now realized why the Lord had made him the king and blessed his kingdom so greatly - it was because God wanted to pour out his kindness on Israel, his chosen people (2 Samuel 5:10, 12).

b) The main reason why God blessed David's kingdom so greatly was because of God's people!

c) The Bible depicts Solomon's reign as an era of unprecedented prosperity due to his wisdom, a quality bestowed upon him by God. In a dream, God had asked him what he wanted most, and Solomon replied, “an understanding mind to govern your people, able to discern between good and evil” (I Kings 3:9).

d) Solomon didn't actually ask for wisdom, persay, but rather asked for discernment in his judgment in ruling God's people. Because this was such a wise request, and because he did not ask for longevity of life, wealth, for his enemies' deaths, God granted him not only what he has asked, but much more.

e) God was pleased because Solomon was asking for the right thing. Solomon was seeking not his own pleasure and power. God added “these things” to him, “these things” in Solomon's case being riches and honor.

f) The same reason why God gave Solomon more than what he asked for was because of God's people! 

g) No wonder Jesus asked Peter three times about his lambs and sheep.

John 21:15-17

After breakfast Jesus said to Simon Peter, "Simon, son of John, do you love me more than these others?" "Yes," Peter replied, "you know I am your friend." "Then feed my lambs," Jesus told him. 

Jesus repeated the question: "Simon, son of John, do you really love me?" "Yes, Lord," Peter said, "you know I am your friend." "Then take care of my sheep," Jesus said. 

Once more he asked him, "Simon, son of John, are you even my friend?" 

Peter was grieved at the way Jesus asked the question this third time. "Lord, you know my heart; you know I am," he said. Jesus said, "Then feed my little sheep. 

h) Still God is concerned over his people. He will bless us beyond what we would ask for if we take heed of what Jesus asked of Peter.

i) The main reason why you reached where you are is simply because God's blessings flow through his people. And then it overflows to the priests and kings as they care for his people.

j) So do not neglect God's people if he has entrusted them to you!