I am reminded daily of the story of David, as he was running for
his life from King Saul. He had to leave his home and flee to caves like a
criminal because of this jealous man. David by this time was anointed privately
by Samuel to be king; still the fulfillment of God's plan for him seem to be
far from becoming reality. The promise of God looked hopeless and even dead.
Yet, as David was in a dark lonely cave God brought Him men in the number of
400 who were distressed, in debt, discontented and they desperately needed to
be encouraged. I know the last thing David needed was to be surrounded by more problems.
If anything, after running for his life and having to watch his back for Saul’s
spies, David probably did not have much strength to encourage himself in the
Lord, let alone others. Still in all, David in the most difficult moments of
his life took on this challenge and began encouraging, and teaching these men
in the ways of God.
In the darkness of the cave in Adullam David became a light to
them. As time progressed, these men became different, stronger, renewed, and
transformed in their mind, body, and souls. They became like David in a sense.
They took on his character, strength, and faith. They were like an image of
David himself. These men learned to fight and overcome their internal battles
before they fought external ones. They became warriors against depression, and
hopelessness before they were warriors in the battle front. They were no longer
weak men they were now David's Mighty Men and ready to serve their leader and
his people. I believe David also needed these men. God was using these men to
shape him into the king that God promised. This trial and challenge was needful
for him. Truly, there would be no people for him to rule without first serving
those broken men in need. No palace without pressure. No kingdom blessing
without the cave experience.
David is a type of Christ and in the same manner when we begin to
spend time with Jesus, learn from him, and serve his
people; we will become transformed in His image and likeness. Men, despite our
busy schedules, issues of life, and even weaknesses, let us rise up and help
one another. We become better men when we give of ourselves. We become stronger
when helping others in their pursuit of God. Our faith is elevated when we
serve and encourage the body. I believe this is teamwork in its highest form.
You may not actually be in cave like David was but you are somewhere where
people need you. Take that opportunity to help others grow beyond their
capability. Be a servant and a leader to them. Show them the way of success
with the talents and resources God gave you. Take some time and be God's mighty
men today. Let us be a light on a hill and a tower of
strength to represent the likeness of Christ to all whom God puts in our path
and beyond it. Be blessed.
I am deeply encouraged and directed by this write-up.
ReplyDeleteI would love if you could speak more to me about what you feel David taught these men right there in the cave.