The Spirit of the Lord spoke by me, and His word was on my tongue. The God of Israel said, the Rock of Israel spoke to me, he who rules over men righteously, who rules in the fear of God, is as the light of the morning when the sun rises, a morning without clouds, when the tender grass springs out of the earth, through sunshine after rain. (verse 2-4)
Message: David's Last Words
Time: Second Samuel is set in the land of Israel during the reign of David and follows the course of his forty years as king of Israel (1011–971 BC). It chronicles the establishment of the Davidic dynasty and the expansion of Israel under God’s chosen leader.
What the Lord is Saying: The author of 2 Samuel in chronicling David's life starts 2 Samuel 23 by saying, "These are the last words of David." David is raised high, anointed and the sweet Psalmist. "The Spirit of the Lord spoke by me" and David mentions God equipping him to rule. God has set David apart by establishing a covenant relationship with him. David recognizes something special has occurred with God on his side. Not every person is set aside. Some are worthless.
David describes the perfect king as well, chosen by God, ruling by God's hand, listening to God and being directed by him. Thus, this is what the ideal ruler looks like.
David then mentions mighty men and their accomplishments:
- Josheb-basshebeth - 800 slain by him
- Eleazar - struck the Philistines with 2 others; the Lord brought a great victory that day
- Shammah - took his stand, defended it and struck Philistines; the Lord brought a great victory that day
- Then 3 of the 30 men came to David in cave of Adullam. David wants a drink from the well. Got him drink but he would not drink it.
- Abishai - swung his spear against 300 and killed them; he was most honored of the 30.
- Benaiah - killed 2 sons of Moab; killed a lion, an Egyptian
- Then David mentions 1. Asabel, 2. Elhanan, 3. Shammah, 4. Elika, 5. Helez, 6. Ira, 7. Abiezer, 8. Mebunnai, 9. Zalmon, 10. Maharai, 11. Heleb, 12. Ittai, 13 Benaiah, 14. Hiddai, 15 Abi-albon, 16. Azmaveth, 17. Eliabba, 18. Shammah, 19. Ahiam, 20. Eliphelet, 21. Eliam, 22. Hezro, 23 Paarai, 24. Igal, 25 Bani, 26 Zelek, 27 Naharai, 28. Ira, 29 Gareb, 30. Uriah
- 37 in all
The author here takes the time to mention and list these men. It is important to recognize others always. David did not work alone. He was a leader and had many men that came to his aid. These men formed an elite group that were involved in establishing David's rule. There is community and collective strength in establishing God's purposes. The church body has many members, all contribute and part of the whole.
Summary: David mentions last words about characteristics of a Godly king and then also lists out all of the men that assisted him in establishing his kingdom.
Promise: God is concerned not only with the central players in the story of redemption but also with the saints who play lesser parts.
Prayer: God, thank you for using everyone. It is good to recognize the importance of community, of many people working together for Your good. As I speak to someone that lives somewhat on an island and does not have many people in their life, I am reminded of the importance of having many, of the value in having multiple people that can assist and help. Thank you for gifting many the way you have and keep working out all for your glory.
Note: If you are interested in other studies/devotions, check out my index of Bible Study's.
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