We get a glimpse of how the two sides are getting ready for battle. Absalom is mobilizing his troops and David and his men are being cared for and supported by non-Israelites! What a difference!
Absalom puts Joab’s cousin, Amasa, in charge as commander. That must have been quite an honor for Amasa. It’s not mentioned, but I can’t help but wonder if there was any tension for Amasa knowing his cousin was loyal to King David? Again unspoken, but how was young Absalom feeling in this moment?
We can speculate all day long and have many different viewpoints. Since it’s not included in the text we have, we can take that as a sign it’s not relevant. Yet understanding what people are thinking and how they are feeling has always been a curiosity of mine. Even when people watching complete strangers, I try to imagine what might be going on in their lives. Everyone has a story.
David, on the other hand, has been calculating the position of his allies all along. His campaign had been constructed while on the run. Having supporters like Shobi (from Rabbah), Makir (from Lo-debar), and by Barzillai (from Rogelim. Not having to worry about food and provisions was quite a blessing to be sure.
David and his men will be rested and well fed. They will go confidently into battle. David has come a long way since his initial encounter with the Philistine, Goliath. He even has the support of non-Israelites. The time for battle is nearing. God continues to look after David.
You’ve probably heard stories of people today who received just what they need when they needed it. Maybe it’s a check in the mail in the exact amount of a bill, maybe it’s a bonus check at work just when a big expense was coming due. We often think, “why doesn’t that happen to me?”
But we are loved by a God who provides. What he provides for me will look different than what he provides for you. Rather than compare ourselves to others, we do best in looking to our own lives and situations.
How can we prepare for “battle” like David has done? It’s not hard to realize that we are in a battle right now. The world is still under attack by Satan. There seems to be a lot more evil, but then maybe I’m just recognizing it for what it is now better than I did in the past.
Unfortunately, there appear to be a lot of people like I used to be, blind to evil’s power. Evil will continue to take hold of our us and our loved ones if we don’t stand strong, ready to fight.
Arming ourselves with the word of God is only part of the armor of God. We need to be ready. Are you well fed or are you hungry for God? Do you have a clear vision for where you are going?
Let’s pray …
Father God, equip me for battle. Help me stand strong and face evil in the eye. Give me the strength I need to withstand any temptation. I trust you will give me the way out in those moments. Guide my steps so that I am always living in your will. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
