Exhibiting Wise Behavior

In 1 Samuel 18:5; 1 Samuel 18:14-15 and 1 Samuel 18:30, the writer tells us that David “behaved wisely.” In fact, he behaved “more wisely than all the servants of Saul, so that his name became highly esteemed” (1 Samuel 18:30).

The phrase “highly esteemed” suggests the idea of an unusual respect. David not only was honored by all the people, but more significantly, he was highly respected by those in Saul’s court who were impressed by his noble character.

As Christians come to know Jesus through obedience to His commandments (1 John 2:3-5), they will begin to display qualities of character that set them apart from others, for true wisdom is to live like Christ (1 John 2:6; cf. Gal. 2:20). This wisdom is more than common sense — it is uncommon behavior (see here).

James tells us that, “The wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy” (James 3:17).

As followers of Christ, true wisdom can only be acquired “from above” (cf. James 1:5; Proverbs 2:1-6).

God’s promise to David regarding spiritual wisdom is also true for Christians today. He said: “I will instruct you [cause you to be wise] and teach you in the way you should go” (Psalm 32:8).

The question is, are we learning to exhibit wise behavior? (cf. 1 Peter 2:11-12; Philippians 2:14-16; Matthew 5:16).

—Mike Riley, Gospel