A message from TWFT Sun, Feb 17, 2008.

Before David became qualified to rule as King in Zion, he first had to be found faithful in 3 places. Examine them carefully, for you too must pass these 3 tests.

(1) At home in Bethlehem: That's where David learned to be responsible, to earn living and support his family, to develop his relationship with God, and to overcome resentment of others because of God's favour on his life. 'Charity begins at home.' It's here you become qualified to handle bigger assignments by being faithful in smaller ones. It's here your character is developed and your dependability proven.

(2) In the cave of Adullam: By living among the misfits and rejects of society David learned to give himself to others without expecting anything in return; to love and serve others even when his own life was under attack. 'Adullam' is where our kingdom dies and God's kingdom is showcased through us. It's here that God deals with every self-seeking, self-serving motive in our hearts. Sadly, some of us never make it out of this cave.

(3) On Mount Hebron: The word Hebron means 'covenant.' It was the highest mountain in Israel and there was no easy road to the top; it was uphill all the way. And it's that way with cvenant relationships! They require loyalty regardless of circumstance, truthfulness, regardless of cost, and forgiveness regardless of pain. When we begin to live this way the world will look again to Zion (the Church) for answers, because they'll see God working in us.