2 Samuel 21

Scripture2 Samuel 21:15-16¹⁵ Once again there was a battle between the Philistines and Israel. David went down with his men to fight against the Philistines, and he became exhausted. ¹⁶ And Ishbi-Benob, one of the descendants of Rapha, whose bronze spearhead weighed three hundred shekels^[a] and who was armed with a new sword, said he would kill David.ObservationMost people know the story of David and Goliath – when David, as a young boy, boldly killed the giant for the glory of Lord and protection of God’s people.  As you may recall, Goliath was a giant of the Philistine army.  Even now, towards the end of David’s reign, the Philistines continued to be a major source of conflict.  David had subdued them MANY times before, yet they continued to challenge them at every opportunity.  In vs. 15 they had once again begun a war.  David, though aged by now, joined his men in fighting; but he became exhausted and Ishbi-Benob was ready to take advantage.By this time in life, David had gained more glory than any one man could need…yet, he continued to personally fight for the good of the kingdom.  It does not seem a prideful thing that David chose to join his men, but rather just another example of David standing against those who stood against God’s Israel.  His intent was good, but he found himself in harm’s way.  Ishbi-Benob, seeing his weariness, had every intention of taking full advantage and killing David; but as with the other Philistine giants that had fallen before, God was not in his thoughts (whereas He was in David’s) and, instead, Ishbi-Benob was killed.UnderstandingThe enemies of God’s people are often strong and confident…but there’s a marked difference between human strength and confidence and one that is God-centered.  Ishi-Benob fought for his own glory and for the glory of a God-less nation; whereas David for the good of his kingdom, fought to protect God’s Israel and fought with God in his heart and mind.  What was the end result?  Ishi-Benob – not David – perished.  As we continue to read the next few verses, we see that Abishai – with those same God-centered desires – comes to David’s rescue.Life ApplicationDear God, may I find my confidence in you and you alone.  May I “fight” for the good of your kingdom in the way I live my life everyday – standing up for what is right in your eyes; speaking out for those who may not have a voice or the resources to do so; showing your love and kindness in ways big and small even if against the odds.  Thank you for putting in my heart to serve you and to honor you.  May I not grow weary, not grow prideful, not turn my thoughts from you…but to you be the glory in all I do.To check out the discussion or to join in click here.- Rei