July 11 - David’s Mighty Men
After David was anointed king in Hebron and assumed his rule in Jerusalem, the Chronicler then counted those who had a part in bringing the rule of David about. Those were the mighty men of David who, because of their bravery and loyalty, had brought about this victory over all the enemies. The names and the brave deeds of these mighty men are listed so that people of later generations may remember them. Individuals like Joab, Abishai, Benaiah and others achieved great victories on their own. Their brave exploits served to encourage the Israelites.
However, individuals, no matter how brave they are, still need others. At Ziklag, people from different tribes came to join David’s army. The Benjaminites were bowmen and could shoot arrows and sling stones with either their right or left hand. The Gadites were mighty and experienced warriors, expert with shield and spear, fierce like lions but swift like gazelles. Those were well trained soldiers, ready for battle and were willing to come under the leadership of David.
When David met the Benjaminites, he did not immediately receive those mighty men but said to them, “If you have come to me in friendship to help me, my heart will be joined to you; but if to betray me to my adversaries, although there is no wrong in my hands, then may the God of our fathers see and rebuke you.” Then the Spirit clothed Amasai, chief of the thirty and he pledged allegiance to David in recognition of God’s help in his life.
As church leaders, many of us have seen many capable people, mighty in their own rights and want to serve the Lord and be a part of God’s army. We sometimes covet their abilities and gifts but have neglected to check their allegiance. If their loyalty is not with the Lord and they are unwilling to be under the authority of an earthly figure appointed by God to lead, they would, sooner or later, become our adversaries. This is why some well intentioned children of God eventually become adversaries of God’s work, betraying others and God for they are self-centered.
The Lord is not impressed with how good we are or how mighty we are. He does not look at our previous exploits or accomplishments. His delight is not in horses or chariots but in those who fear Him and rely totally on Him. It is God who can win battles and every battle is the Lord’s, not ours. If you want to do some great things for God, you are gravely mistaken. You cannot! Only God can!
Now check your own heart, are you doing all the things in the name of serving God but actually serving your own self? Do you rely on your own might or submit to the plan of God and be enlisted in His army? Declare your loyalty to Him now.
Ps 148:1-14 1 Chron 11:1-12:18 Acts 28:1-31 Prov 19:1-3