For the past three years, I have had a new boss every year. I haven’t switched jobs. No, our leadership has constantly changed. I bet you too, have been there. Someone new comes in. What are the rules? The expectations? Will they value my work? What will I need to change?
We read in 2 Samuel 9 of Mephibosheth going through a transition of leadership. Only the transition was especially unsettling, as David had ascended to king, when Mephibosheth actually had lineage to assume the position himself! Mephibosheth was the son of Jonathan, grandson of Saul. His family had been the protectors. Mephibosheth and grown up sheltered by the king himself. Being a boy with a physical disability, he was even more vulnerable, but rested in the protection of his family’s leadership. When his family no longer ruled in the palace, and had in fact been killed, he was alone. What would happen now? He must have felt both abandoned and terrified for the future.
Can you imagine his horror when he heard that the new king wanted to see him? King David had many victories against other people. He was renowned as a warrior. How could Mephibosheth possibly stand up to David?
But King David set his mind at ease immediately when Mephibosheth met him. “Don’t be afraid,” David said to him, “For I will surely show you kindness for the sake of your father Jonathan. I will restore to you all the land that belonged to your grandfather Saul, and you will always eat at my table.” 2 Samuel 9:7
God used the new king to provide not only for Mephibosheth’s physical needs, but David also removed a source of great stress from Mephibosheth’s life. He would also receive kindness and companionship.
When we feel we are thrown to the mercy of the powers that be, how often do we remember that ultimately God is in control? Even over the leaders. When our earthly protector is gone, God can still author a way to protect us. He is our Protector. The protector who will never be removed from leadership.
God promises us in Psalms 18:2 “The Lord is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; My God is my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.” A fortress is used to protect people from the invasion of the enemy. It is a place of safety, provision, and comfort. God promises to be all these: a place of safety, provision and comfort.
Maybe like me, you need that reminder today. When unexpected things happen, and when the day, or even the world, isn’t what I thought I was awakening to this morning, what a relief that God is still on His throne. He is still in control. He is still taking care of His children. He is still taking care of me.
When we forget, we can ask Him to align our hearts with His and build our faith. Let’s ask Him now for just that.
Prayer: Dear Lord, I easily forget You are in control. When things surprise me, I need to remember that they don’t surprise You. Please build my faith. Help me remember that You are indeed in control. Thank you for being my fortress and thank you for always providing for me. In Jesus’s name, Amen.