Ashdod

 Ashdod: Pride

 

Ashdod literally means "City On a Hill".  Make no mistake, this was not a positive foreshadowing of the Church.  Rather, an anti-type.  Ashdod glorified itself and was all about vanity rather than displaying the glory of another.

As it was first of the Philistine cities David was able to overcome, it was not the first city.  The first city was Jebus (Jerusalem) which represented the heart of man and seat of the King.  After establishing his throne there, it was onto the Philistine strongholds.

One of the biggest threats to our hearts is PRIDE.  Self-glorification will ruin a life faster than anything else.  Now mind you, there is a difference between confident display of what God has done in one's life and self-serving pride.  They often are mistaken for one another.

David did not usurp the throne (he never touched the Lord's anointed) and he allowed God to establish him.  Jesus lowered himself and became a servant to all.  He obeyed to the point of death and became sin for us.  The King of Glory humbled Himself and so His mountain is higher than any self-made hill.  The Father has exalted the Son and every knee shall now, every tongue shall confess that He is Lord.

Ashdod was the house of Dagon who eventually lost his head before the Ark of the Covenant (Mercy seat of God).  The key to not losing your head; humility.  Learn to bow before Jesus and He will be the lifter (instead of the taker) of your head.

Recap:
Ashdod = Pride
Remedy = Humility

Proverbs 29:23
"One's pride will bring him low,
 but he who is lowly in spirit will obtain honor."

Jesus Loves Evansville,

David Warren