“Whatever mission Saul sent him on, David was so successful that Saul gave him a high rank in the army. This pleased all the troops, and Saul’s officers as well. 6 When the men were returning home after David had killed the Philistine, the women came out from all the towns of Israel to meet King Saul with singing and dancing, with joyful songs and with timbrels and lyres.7 As they danced, they sang: “Saul has slain his thousands, and David his tens of thousands.” 8 Saul was very angry; this refrain displeased him greatly. “They have credited David with tens of thousands,” he thought, “but me with only thousands. What more can he get but the kingdom?” 9 And from that time on Saul kept a close eye on David.” 1 Samuel 18.5-9
The term golden child has been used to describe many people in the past – star athletes, budding musicians, political figures, or anyone in any field where others see potential for success and advancement. I remember hearing it used in the early days of my ministry in the Methodist conference to describe up-and-coming clergy who had the gift of preaching and leadership (but not me!).
David was a golden child. He proved it by defeating Goliath, and from that moment on, he found success wherever he went. Saul recognized this and gave David a high rank in the army, where he continued to excel. Songs were written about David greater songs than those about Saul. Naturally, this made Saul unhappy. No matter how evident Gods blessing was upon David, Saul was jealous, keeping a close eye on him and growing increasingly angry at his success: And from then on Saul kept a close eye on David.
It is easy to feel jealous of those who succeed or are favored by others. Pastor friends compare church sizes all the time! Athletes compare wins and trophies. Businessmen and businesswomen compare deals and financial status. Saul compared himself to David, an up-and-coming warrior who had risen to fame overnight after defeating Goliath.
The truth is, we are all golden in Gods eyes. It may sound cliche, but each of us holds the highest value in Christ. Jesus died and rose again so that we might be in a full and right relationship with Him. Our greatest worth must come from who we are in God rather than from our worldly accomplishments. We must find contentment in our heavenly worth rather than in earthly rewards.
Obtaining true worth in Christ begins with receiving the gift of eternal life forgiveness of sins and salvation through Jesus. Only then can we fully understand our significance. The One who placed His Spirit in our hearts, secured our names in the Lambs Book of Life, and sacrificed His life so that we might live wants us to know Him and be known by Him. Only in Him will our worth be secure.
Have you trusted Christ? Have you said yes not only to a relationship with Him but to a future with God? Turn to Him. Confess your sins. Receive His grace. Allow Him to love you and remind you of your significance in His Kingdom.
“O Lord God, you are good. Thank you for loving me. When my love fails, your love remains steadfast. Come now, Holy Spirit, and fill me with your power. Even when I forget and live for myself, I know my path is only straight with You at the helm. I love You, Lord, and I praise Your name. For You are good, and Your love endures forever.” Amen.