2 Samuel 21:17-21 We Need Each Other No one is self-sufficient. Perhaps David still remembered the song of the women in all the cities of Israel-Saul hath slain his thousands, and David his ten thousands (1 Sam.18:6-7). But all the songs in the world could not help or bolster him now. He was no longer the robust young warrior of former days; he had grown old and weak. Yet David was blessed to have a friend to help him (v.17). Sometimes God uses the least likely individuals to help us. Abishai was a mean-tempered man-a nephew of David (1 Chron.2:15-16). He was with David in the wilderness of Ziph and begged David that he might slay King Saul with his spear (1 Sam.26:6-12). Abishai was also party (along with his brother Joab) to the plot to kill Abner (ch.3). Among his exploits as a warrior it is mentioned that he withstood three hundred men and slew them with his spear (23:18). However, he was also one of the three mighty men who broke through the host of the Philistines to procure David a draught of water from the well by the gate of Bethlehem (23:15-16). Abishai was close to the heart of his master and heard his whisper. And it is he who came ti Davids help in our text today and slew the Philistine giant who sought to slay David (vv.15-17). Another delightful lesson appears at this point-our victories serve as an encouragement to others. As the account in 2 Samuel 21 unfolds, the Bible tells us of three more giants who also fell victim to Davids men. Surely they took courage in the fact that Abishai had been able to defeat Ishbi-benob. Remember, dear believer, we need each other. The bravery and succor of one can foster courage and help in others. JED
Posted on: Sun, 16 Mar 2014 21:02:11 +0000