In David we have: (1) an example and (2) a warning.
I. The characteristic of David was loyalty to the Lord his God, loyalty to the King of kings. Loyalty is love evinced towards a superior, love which induces us to do all that in us lies, as circumstances from time to time admit, in small things or in great, to promote the glory of Him whose servants and subjects we are, and to advance the interests of His kingdom. We are to show our loyalty: (1) by from time to time renewing our vow as subjects and soldiers of the great Captain of our salvation; (2) by seeking to enkindle in our souls, through prayer for the renovating influences of the Holy Ghost, love towards Him who first loved us; (3) by looking out for opportunities of service.
II. The history of David is also a warning. However excitable the devotional feelings may be, that man is not in a state of grace whose conduct is not conformable to the moral requirements of the Gospel. David fell; and if David had not repented, he would have perished everlastingly. Those whose hearts are fervent in adoration have need to take warning from David and watch as well as pray.
F. W. Hook, Parish Sermons,p. 90.
References: 2 Samuel 23:1. Spurgeon, Morning by Morning,p. 233; W. M. Taylor, David King of Israel,p. 312. 2 Samuel 23:1-5. D. J. Vaughan, The Days of the Son of Man,p. 388; J. R. Macduff, Sunsets on the Hebrew Mountains,p. 114.