Running without Shortcuts

Saul's son, Ish-Bosheth - who is leading the kingdom of Israel as it's slowly taken over by David - hears of the death of Abner, his commander. Since Abner was truly the one leading behind the scenes, Ish-Bosheth loses heart and all of Israel with him. When they see their leader distraught and unable to lead, some in the Israelite army decide to act. Part of Ish-Bosheth's army was made up of raiding bands led by two men who choose to take matters into their own hands and kill him in his sleep. They cut off Ish-Bosheth's head and take it to David, expecting him to be grateful for their "help" in making him king over both kingdoms. David again responds with horror toward their shameful murder of Saul's offspring. He orders that they be killed and then holds a proper burial for Saul's son. With each small step in David's rise to fulfill God's promise that he will be king, David focuses on not acting out of character. He is confident God will do as He said -that he will become king - so he keeps running will that goal in mind but without taking shortcuts or changing direction. I pray for the focus of David...to be so in step with God that no one can deter me from the race ahead.