2 Samuel 17:24-29 – Three Encouragers
Praise God that the chapter ends with three people who committed themselves to God’s chosen king when his cause looked weak. In verse 27, Shobi is a former pagan, Machir was once loyal to Saul, and Barzillai is senior citizen. But when it matters, we find them here, standing beside God’s chosen king. If Jesus were to ask us, as he asked the 12 disciples: ‘Do you want to go away as well?’ Surely our answer would be that of Simon Peter: ‘Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life’. Notice just as the chapter ends how they don’t do anything amazingly spectacular. But what they do is refresh those who are weary in the service of God.
Many professing Christians could be divided into two categories in the church – some are energy suckers – others are energy givers. Some are energy suckers: they’re easily offended; you have to walk on eggshells around them. They will only serve or get involved if it’s on their terms, or something they’re interested in. Their default setting is criticism. Whereas energy givers are the encouragers. Those who realise that their fellow Christians may well be weary, coming from a hard situation, and just in need of a bit of encouragement to keep them going. That might not seem like a big deal. Or perhaps someone might think: Real spiritual Christians don’t need encouragement. But it’s interesting how often the Apostle Paul highlights those who had refreshed him and other believers. There are things that are mentioned once in the Bible and whole books are written on them. That’s right and good – if the Bible says something even once, it’s important. But how much do we hear about the ministry of refreshment? When it’s so easy. A kind word. An encouraging smile. A small, practical expression of love. People want to do big, spectacular things for God. But little quiet acts of kindness can do immeasurable good in a church. Do you refresh other Christians?
Things may look bleak now – they certainly looked bleak then – but God has a plan. If you want to be on the right side of history, get behind God’s true king. And be an encourager, not a discourager, to your fellow believers.
Question
- How can you be an encourager?
Prayer Points
- Pray for the preaching and hearing of God’s Word tomorrow.
- Use prayer points from your congregation.
- Pray for family matters.