Modesty-A QUALITY THAT PROMOTES PEACE

Two Modest Kings

One of Jehovah's most loyal servant was David. who was a young man when he was anointed as the future king of Israel.  Thereafter,, reigning King Saul put David under a great  pressure by trying to kill him and by forcing him to live as a fugitive. - 1 Samuel 16:1, 11-13; 19:9,10; 26:2, 3.

Even under those circumstances, David recognized that there were limits to what he should do when protecting his life.  On one occasion in the wilderness, David refused to allow Abishai to harm sleeping King Saul, saying: "It is unthinkable, on my part, from Jehovah's  standpoint, to thrust my hand out against the anointed of Jehovah!"  (1 Samuel 26:8-11)  David knew that it was not his place to remove Saul from the position of the king.  Thus David showed modesty on this occasion by staying within the bounds of proper  behavior.  Likewise, God's present-day servants know that "from Jehovah's standpoint," there are things they simply cannot do,even when human life is at stake. -Acts 15:28, 29; 21:25.

King David's son Solomon also manifested modesty as  a young man, though in a slightly different manner.  When Solomon was enthroned, he felt inadequate to carry the weighty responsibility of king.  He prayed:  "Jehovah my God,  you yourself have made your servant king in the place of David my father, and i am but a little boy.  I do not know how to go and and how to come in."  Clearly, Solomon was aware of his won lack of ability and experience.  He was then modest, showing no conceit,  or vanity.  Solomon asked Jehovah for discernment, and  his request was granted. -1 Kings 3:4-12.

Next time: The Messiah and His Forerunner

Watchtower, 2000