Fame and Fear
1 Chronicles 14:17
And the fame of David went out into all lands; and the LORD brought the fear of him on all nations.


David, notwithstanding his follies and sins, was "the man after God's own heart." Devout, obedient, diligent, courageous, he was eminently adapted both to govern the nation, to lead the army, to promote the revival of true religion. Providence exalted him to a lofty position and enabled him to adorn the station to which he was raised. Hence so large a part of the historical books of the Old Testament are occupied with the events of his reign; and hence he is so frequently alluded to in the national annals, and so often quoted both by our Lord and by his inspired apostles.

I. DAVID'S FAME. It was the fame of:

1. A successful warrior. A man of war from his youth, he owed his throne to his valour and generalship.

2. A powerful king. When he wielded the forces of a nation, God gave him victory over many enemies.

3. A pious man. His steadfastness in worshipping the true God, his liberality in providing for the services of the sanctuary, his habitual devotion, all were well known, and stamped David as a truly religious man.

4. A sacred poet and musician. It is as" the sweet singer of Israel" that he is held in lasting remembrance, and remembered with gratitude both widespread and sincere.

II. DAVID'S FEAR.

1. His subjects held him in honour and had respect to his righteous laws.

2. His officers and troops were devoted to his person and obeyed his authoritative behests.

3. Traitors stood in awe of his vigour, promptness, and power.

4. His alliance was sought by neighbouring nations, who dreaded to have him as an enemy, and who courted his friendship.

5. His foes feared him, for he defeated their armies and held themselves in subjection and tribute.

PRACTICAL LESSONS.

1. All greatness is from God, to whom all praise is due.

2. The great are responsible for the use of their power to him who is "King of kings and Lord of lords." - T.



Parallel Verses
KJV: And the fame of David went out into all lands; and the LORD brought the fear of him upon all nations.

WEB: The fame of David went out into all lands; and Yahweh brought the fear of him on all nations.




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