The First Gospel Part 23: David - The Victory Belongs to the Lord | Sheridan McDaniel
Sheridan McDaniel’s recent sermon at Citizens Church of Orange County took us deep into the story of David in 1 Samuel 30, connecting ancient wisdom to our modern struggles. His message illuminated timeless truths about leadership, responsibility, spiritual battles, perseverance, and God’s faithfulness—a moving reminder that, no matter the circumstance, “The victory belongs to the Lord.”
The Context: Absence, Vulnerability, and Loss
Sheridan set the stage by describing how David and his men, returning from battle, found their home city of Ziklag raided and burned, and their families taken captive. He pointedly reflected on why this happened—noting that every man had left to fight, leaving their homes unprotected. The absence of fathers, husbands, and leaders created an opening for the enemy. Sheridan challenged listeners: even in our dedication to “fighting battles,” our absence (emotional or physical) can leave our loved ones vulnerable.
The Amalekites, rather than killing, carried away women and children—the first step of the enemy, Sheridan noted, is often not destruction but control. “His first job is not to kill… His first job is to steal your heart, your mind, your emotions, your family.” The parallel: our neglect can allow destructive influences to seize what we value most.
A Crisis of Anguish and Blame
The devastation brought David and his people to tears—so deep was their pain, they “wept until they had no more power to weep.” In their grief, the men directed their anger at David, blaming him for their loss. Sheridan unpacked this human tendency: in moments of suffering, we often project anger rather than addressing its spiritual source. But turning anger on each other only deepens our wounds.
Encouraging Yourself in the Lord
Instead of retaliating or sinking into despair, David “strengthened himself in the Lord.” Sheridan urged us to do the same—redirecting pain and anger upward to God, not outward toward others. David recalled God’s past faithfulness, using memory as a wellspring of hope. Sheridan emphasized the importance of our “highlight reel”—remembering God’s goodness in our lives, especially when everything appears lost.
Even when community support failed, David sought God’s direction, asking, “Shall I pursue?” The lesson: sometimes, we must go to God for ourselves, seeking divine guidance before taking action—because not everything lost is ours to reclaim. Only God knows what is truly meant for us.
Obedience, Perseverance, and Shared Victory
When God gave David the go-ahead, he set out with his 600 men. Yet, at the brook Besor, 200 grew too weary to continue. David pressed on with the 400 who remained, showing us that not everyone called alongside you will finish the journey. Sheridan encouraged compassion for those who “stay at the brook,” reminding us everyone’s role is significant—whether on the frontlines or supporting quietly. In the end, David’s forces regained everything, a testament that God’s victories are complete.
Upon their return, David refused to withhold the spoils from the 200 who stayed behind, affirming that God’s victory is for all who played a part—no matter the role. Sheridan highlighted the importance of generosity and unity: “When God gives you the victory, you don’t have a problem sharing with anybody else.”
Key Lessons from This Sermon
1. Presence Protects:
Absence, especially from those we love and lead, leaves vulnerability. Be present: your presence is a defense against spiritual and emotional threats.
2. Take Your Pain to God:
When grief and anger overwhelm, directing it toward others won’t heal us. Like David, strengthen yourself in the Lord, calling to mind His past faithfulness.
3. Seek God’s Guidance Before Acting:
Just because you’ve lost something doesn’t mean you should pursue it. Ask God first—He knows what’s best to reclaim and what’s best left behind.
4. Every Role Matters in God’s Plan:
Whether on the frontlines or supporting in the background, each part of the body is vital. Value every contribution, and share God’s blessings with all.
This sermon reminds us: victory comes from God, and He completes what He starts—restoring wholly, not halfway, when we trust and follow His process.
