... for the LORD was with him ...

      Then all the tribes of Israel came to David at Hebron, and said, "Look, we are your bone and flesh. For some time, while Saul was king over us, it was you who led out Israel and brought it in. The LORD said to you: It is you who shall be shepherd of my people Israel, you who shall be ruler over Israel." So all the elders of Israel came to the king at Hebron; and King David made a covenant with them at Hebron before the LORD, and they anointed David king over Israel. David was thirty years old when he began to reign, and he reigned forty years. At Hebron he reigned over Judah seven years and six months; and at Jerusalem he reigned over all Israel and Judah thirty-three years.
... David occupied the stronghold, and named it the city of David. David built the city all around from the Millo inward. And David became greater and greater, for the LORD, the God of hosts, was with him.
[2^nd Samuel 5:1-5, 9-10 NRSV]

      The story of King David is a well-known story for many individuals; a young shepherd boy is anointed by a prophet, the young man takes down a giant with a stone and a sling, the man becomes the king of his people, the king builds up his Kingdom, and we discover throughout his story that David was a real human-being . . . both blessed and cursed.
      In today’s reading we are reminded of the time when David was asked by the elders of Israel to take on the challenge of being their leader; the King of Israel. It was also pointed out that David, the Elders, and the LORD were joined in a covenant of leadership, respect, and worship. Sometimes when we make a pledge, we might forget that there are more parties involved than just ourselves.
      When I read these passages, I am reminded that when my wife and I were joined in marriage we made a pledge to each other, to our families, and to God. When I see other marriages breaking up I often wonder if the individuals have ever considered those promises they made to God.