1 Samuel 18:27 (NKJV)
“therefore David arose and went, he and his men, and killed two hundred men of the Philistines. And David brought their foreskins, and they gave them in full count to the king, that he might become the king’s son-in-law. Then Saul gave him Michal his daughter as a wife.”

Today’s devotion will look at a general principle that we need to embrace as pilgrims, but we will apply it more directly in one aspect of our lives. We continue to examine David’s life and learn from him.

In a generation where many do the barest minimum, we are called to be different. We are called to go beyond the expectations of men in performing our duties. Doing the barest minimum is not the pilgrim lifestyle.

Learn to give more than is expected. Learn to serve more than is expected. Learn to offer more than is expected. Whether in our workspaces or our relationships, do more than what people expect from you.

Although Saul asked David to produce one hundred Philistine foreskins before he could marry Michal, David went and offered him two hundred. David went beyond Saul’s expectations and this shocked him.

Shock people around you by how much more you are willing to give and serve. Even when their motivation for asking you to do something is wrong, go beyond their expectation. This is what makes you unique.

David understood the importance of expressing his love for Michal by giving a dowry that exceeded the required. He showed her his love by being willing to sacrifice for her and go beyond what her father asked for.

When dealing with those you love, go beyond expectations. Love everyone. Love your enemies. But spend and be spent much more in loving your family. And let them know the sacrifices you are making for them.

While the general principle is that we serve beyond expectation, let the more critical application be with family. It is not wise to spend and be spent for great causes out there, while your family is starved for love.