Choose Honour

Some biblical stories can seem almost unreal to the modern mind, yet they hold timeless truths. One such story is the unfolding drama between King Saul and David, before David eventually ascended the throne of Israel.

Naturally, we celebrate David as the hero in this narrative, and Saul is often remembered unfavorably. However, there are notable traits in King Saul that leaders and people of influence today can learn from. After all, Saul took a significant risk by allowing a young, unproven David to face Goliath, potentially putting the entire nation at the mercy of the Philistines. That kind of trust, against all odds, reveals a side of Saul that perhaps explains why he was chosen by God to lead in the first place.

But the spotlight of this piece is on David—the man after God’s own heart. And rightly so, because David exemplified a profound understanding of honour, especially in how it relates to divine promotion and spiritual elevation.

Consider this: David was relentlessly pursued by Saul, to the point where he had to flee and live in exile. Yet, on multiple occasions when he had the chance to kill the king and end his torment, he refused. David saw beyond the pain and persecution; to him, laying a hand on God’s anointed was not just self defence or revenge—it was dishonour.

His commitment to honour wasn’t superficial. When news of Saul’s death reached him, brought by a man claiming to have delivered the fatal blow, David mourned deeply. He tore his garments and wept for the one who had sought his life. Then, in a striking demonstration of his reverence for divine authority, he had the messenger executed—not out of rage, but out of principle.

Now pause and reflect: how many of us would spare the life of someone who was determined to destroy us—once, let alone twice? And would we mourn their death or rejoice at their downfall?

Our generation has much to learn from David about the principle of honour. We are called to honour those around us, those ahead of us, and especially those anointed by God for leadership—those whose influence has shaped our journey. Don’t be among the rash critics who take pleasure in tearing down those whose shoulders they once stood upon. That’s a dangerous path with lasting consequences.

Look around—no one has ever risen to lasting greatness by dishonouring those God placed before them. You may be more gifted, more anointed, or more intelligent, but without honour, your future is in jeopardy. It’s okay to disagree—but do it with dignity. If you must move on, do so without bitterness or defamation.

If you embrace and practice this simple but powerful law of honour—wherever you are, regardless of your current state—I can say with confidence: your future will be great, and your legacy will be rich.

"The wise inherit honour, but fools are put to shame." – Proverbs 3:35