The Crown Belongs to the King

2 Samuel 12:26–31

In 2 Samuel 12, we find Joab, David’s mighty general, besieging the city of Rabbah. As victory nears, Joab does something remarkable. Instead of claiming the honor for himself, he sends a message to King David: “Now therefore gather the rest of the people together, and encamp against the city, and take it: lest I take the city, and it be called after my name” -2 Samuel 12:28.

Joab understood something important: the crown belonged to the king. He could lead the battle, but the glory was David’s. He was a soldier, not the sovereign.

This is a vital reminder for us today. In a world hungry for recognition, we must remember that Jesus alone deserves the crown. We are not the heroes of the story; we are His servants and soldiers.

I. The Soldier’s Position: We Serve Under the King

2 Samuel 12:26–28

Joab could have finished the battle and claimed the crown for himself. But he recognized his role as a soldier under David’s authority.

We live in a culture that encourages us to promote ourselves, brand ourselves, and pursue recognition. But as followers of Christ, we must embrace the attitude of John the Baptist:“He must increase, but I must decrease” (John 3:30).

We are not the kings or queens of the Kingdom; we are servants under the King.

Imagine a soldier on the battlefield taking credit for the general’s strategy and victory. It would be absurd! Likewise, we must not steal the glory that belongs to Christ.

II. The Soldier’s Purpose: We Fight for the King’s Glory

2 Samuel 12:28b – “…lest I take the city, and it be called after my name.”

Joab refused to let his name be elevated above the king’s. His purpose was to advance David’s honor. Likewise, our purpose as believers is to glorify Jesus Christ, not ourselves. We are reminded of this truth: “Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.” -1 Corinthians 10:31

Everything we do should be with the goal of making Christ’s name famous. When we serve in church, minister to others, or succeed in life, the temptation is to receive the praise. But we must constantly redirect the glory to Christ.

“If we could but keep our eyes upon the King’s crown, we would never try to fashion one for ourselves.” – John M. Anderson

III. The Soldier’s Perspective: Only the King Wears the Crown

“And he took their king’s crown from off his head…” -2 Samuel 12:30

David wore the crown as the rightful king. Joab knew the battle was not his to win for his own glory. Spiritually, Jesus Christ alone deserves the crown. Scripture declares His worthiness:“Thou art worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honour and power…” -Revelation 4:11 and “The elders… cast their crowns before the throne.” -Revelation 4:10

One day in Heaven, the redeemed will cast their crowns at the feet of Christ. Until then, we should live daily casting our achievements, victories, and even our lives at His feet.

Are we building our kingdom or His? Are we more concerned with being known, or making Him known?

IV. The Soldier’s Pattern: We Serve Faithfully and Humbly Until the End

Luke 17:10 – “…we are unprofitable servants: we have done that which was our duty to do.”

Joab didn’t ask for applause; he simply did his duty. This is the pattern for every soldier of Christ. Humility doesn’t mean we think less of ourselves; it means we think of ourselves less.

William Carey, the great missionary to India, asked that when he died, nothing be written on his tombstone except: “A wretched, poor, and helpless worm, on Thy kind arms I fall.”

That’s the heart of a faithful soldier: pointing everything to the King.

Who Will Wear the Crown?

One day, we will stand before the King of kings. Will we try to hold on to our crowns, or will we cast them at His feet?

Joab’s attitude reminds us that this life is not about us. We are not the kings; we are the soldiers, and Jesus alone deserves the crown. Have you been seeking recognition for yourself rather than living for Christ’s glory? Do you live with the attitude, “The city will not be called after my name”? Will you lay your victories, your service, your talents, and your very life at the feet of the One who deserves it all?

“Now unto the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only wise God, be honour and glory for ever and ever. Amen.” (1 Timothy 1:17).

“The crown belongs to Christ alone; our joy is to serve faithfully at His command.”