Pass in Review #1

2 Samuel 7:8
Now, therefore so shalt thou say unto my servant David, Thus saith the Lord of hosts, I took thee from the sheepcote, from following the sheep, to be ruler over my people, over Israel.

I can still hear the command as it is shouted from the center of the parade ground. "Pass In Review!". The troops would then be ordered to do a series of turns and a long march for the Commander. He was to view for the first time or review for the last time, his troops. It is a reminder of the good things that was about to happen or a sentimental look back on the great things accomplished.

The word review carries the meaning of a formal military inspection, a retrospective view or survey. It can mean a critical evaluation.

David is about to review the good things that God has done for him. He will get his "Pass in Review!"

1. My Servant!
God calls David his servant. I have found that the happiest times in my life is when I am serving the needs of others. I guess I have a talent of hospitality. I believe that to be recognized as a true servant is a great honor.

For God to call David a servant, is a high complement. God has purchased us with a great price by giving us His Only Begotten Son to redeem us to himself. It would be only fitting for our owner to call us slaves! The Lord uses a better word and calls David a servant.

I long for the Lord to call me by the term "My Servant"!

2. I (God) took thee from!
Where did God find you? For that matter where did he find me? every born again child of God was taken from a horrible pit. Our testimony should always be on our lips about the nasty place we were taken from and how God has placed us where we are at, which is a much better place.

We know where we came from and for the redeemed we also know where we are going! Heaven is sounding a lot sweeter to me all the time. I praise the Lord for what He has done for me.

3. From the sheepcote, from following the sheep!

A sheepcote is a pen or shelter for sheep. Can you imagine the smell that stinky, wet, musty sheep give off! The shepherd was shunned because of the smell associated with his profession. In the range wars of America the cattle farmers and shepherds battled because of the sanitary aspects of sheep versus cattle.

Just imagine the shepherd in his daily job. He followed sheep. that view alone gives us room to think! Any promotion from watching the south end of a north bound sheep is a good thing. when God took you what were you following?

4. To be ruler over my people!
when God takes control of our life, we can expect great things to happen! God is not looking to "Just" save you. He is looking to re-make you in His image! When God gets a hold of your heart he wants to create in you a Holy leadership! He desires for us to be all that we can be. A ruler over his people. God wants his children to become care administrators over all that pertains to him. A great ruler gives his all to benefit the people.

Christ gave his all! What have you given for the people whom God loves so much?