Toy Stories: Ken — Protector vs. Tyrant - Wednesday
Today’s Verse
1 Samuel 17:47
All those gathered here will know that it is not by sword or spear that the LORD saves; for the battle is the LORD’s, and he will give all of you into our hands. (NIV)
Have you ever noticed the “blue check” on someone’s Instagram or Spotify account?
Influencers, models, businesspeople, and all manner of clout chasers rely on social media to flaunt their lifestyle, generate income, and establish a personal brand. That coveted badge is a big status symbol!
That’s why in 2022, more than 300 people had theirs removed after an investigation found they got it fraudulently. With a generous greasing of cash, the operation transformed hundreds of clients’ profiles, hoping to pave the way to lucrative endorsements and coveted social status.
Goes to show how far we’ll go for “credibility” (real or perceived).
But let’s be honest, we all chase our own version of a blue check mark. It just looks different for each of us. For some, it’s a title upgrade on LinkedIn (“Executive Director of Strategic Vision Implementation” — whatever that means). For others, it’s posting that gym selfie, the vacation highlight reel, or the “humble brag” story. Some flex with their letters — PhD, CPA, MBA, MDiv — and others with their lifestyle — Yeti cup, Tesla, golden doodle, kitchen remodel. We’ve created a new scoreboard of worth.
How contrasting that is to the challenge of Philippians 2:3-4, “Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.”
So when we read about David, it’s refreshing. He redirects the spotlight. He models humility and clarity: it’s not me, it’s Him. He wasn’t out to build his personal brand. He wanted everyone to know that victory came from God alone. “All those gathered here will know that it is not by sword or spear that the LORD saves; for the battle is the LORD’s, and he will give all of you into our hands” (1 Samuel 17:47).
APPLICATION
Ask yourself: Whose glory am I really fighting for? Today, look for one opportunity to shift the focus from yourself to God. Maybe it’s in a conversation, a post online, or even just in your prayers.
PRAYER
Lord, help me live for Your glory, not mine. When You give me victories, keep me humble and quick to point others back to You. Help me put others’ interests over my own.
