Who are you promoting?

This week I've been continuing to think about the character of Joab, the leader of the army of David. 

Last week we considered his faith and courage as he entered into a battle not knowing whether he'd live, die, or become enslaved, yet he continued the path that seemed good to him and what he felt he should do for the benefit of God's people. 

This week we meet Joab having continued that battle and now he's at the point of success. He can see that the battle is almost won, the war is nearly over. He has persevered and is on the brink of conquering the enemy, so, what does he do? 

Joab sent messengers to David and said, “I have fought against Rabbah; moreover, I have taken the city of waters. 28 Now then gather the rest of the people together and encamp against the city and take it, lest I take the city and it be called by my name.”

2 Samuel 12:27–28 (ESV)

This amazes me. 

Joab is the one that's done the hard work. He's persevered, he's put his life at risk, yet he doesn't seek the glory for it - he gives It to someone else! 

How many of us can say we would do the same? 

I know when we have toiled hard for an outcome, we often want the recognition, the acclaim, the renown. We want others to know that it was US that did it WE put in the hard work, I did the behind the scenes toil. Yet Joab calls in David. 

He allows, not even that, he invites David to take the credit. He allows David to have the victory - why????

It makes me think that Joab isn't really bothered about himself. 

He must greatly esteem David, maybe he realises that it's better for the unification of Israel that there's one victor (David) rather than two. If the city had been named after Joab, would it of caused a division where some would follow and promote Joab rather than David? Would it echo the songs people sang about Saul and David? 

Joab seems content to be the commander - The one who works hard, who recognises and values his position. Maybe he is content to know the influence he's had instead of taking the glory. Seeing that there is greater benefit in David becoming greater than pushing his own agenda. Whatever the reasoning behind Joan's message, Joab comes across as a loyal, loving leader. He's not made weaker or less by not promoting himself, in fact in my eyes he's made greater, greater in character.

Do you promote others above yourself? 

Do you feel the need to push yourself forward?

Are you in a situation where you could become greater, but others less? 

Or is there a situation where you could elevate others around you?

Joab seems to be content with his role. He knows who he is and who he isn't, that is enough for him. Is it enough for you?