"And David had success in all his undertakings, for the LORD was with him. And when Saul saw that he had great success, he stood in fearful awe of him. But all Israel and Judah loved David, for he went out and came in before them." - 1 Samuel 18:14-16
The "Seahawks" is a National Football Team located in Seattle. Seahawk fans are nationally known as the loudest in the league. They have such an influence at home games that they are referred to as the 12the man. I am personally bothered by this phenomenon, since it has made it very difficult for my football team to win in Seattle. This is a team that has a winning advantage, and fans love it, opponents fear it ... but the Coach is pleased.
David was a young warrior, with little experience, but incredibly successful. Why? Because he had a winning advantage. The LORD was with him and he "had more success than all the servants of Saul, so that his name was
highly esteemed." (18:30) As a result, all Israel and Judah loved David, but Saul grew fearful of his success. At the end of the day, no matter who loved him or feared him, the most important fact was ... the LORD was pleased.
Do you have a 12th man my friend? Do you have a winning advantage in life? If you know the Lord and walk with him you most certainly do. Jesus said in John 15:5 ... "I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I
in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do
nothing." And Paul said in Philippians 4:13 ... "I
can do all things through him (Christ) who strengthens me." Jesus is our winning advantage, and no matter what others think of us, all that matters is ... that HE is pleased.