Moment With The Master
“Lamp of Israel”
Categories: Moment With The MasterBut Abishai the son of Zeruiah came to his aid, and struck the Philistine and killed him. Then the men of David swore to him, saying, “You shall go out no more with us to battle, lest you quench the lamp of Israel.” (2 Samuel 21:17)
It was to be another day at the office for King David. An old well-known enemy, the Philistines, were again at war with Israel. So David and his army went out to fight. However, the venerable warrior walked at a slower pace. The Scriptures say: “and David grew faint”. (vs.15)
Ishbi-Benob, one of the sons of Goliath, would seize the moment and kill David. However, Abishai came to David's rescue. It was then that David's men requested that David no longer go to war. However, David's new position would not diminish his usefulness to Israel.
Having light in the lamp is proof that there is still life and influence. The glory of Israel still depended on David. Such is a tribute to his remarkable character. By his wise counsel and prayer he could still wield his influence.
God calls up on everyone of his children to “let their light shine.”(Matthew 5:16) “Do all things without complaining and disputing, that you may become blameless and harmless, children of God without fault in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world. “ (Philippians 2:14,15) Jesus tells his disciples to not cover their lamp, but to allow the light of God to be seen by others.
Jesus our Savior is the light of men. By his revelation he enlightens us about sin and unrighteousness. He shows us the value of eternal things. And in times of peril, he provides security.
Enemies of God have tried to extinguish his light. Scoffers have made an attempt to disrupt the influence of Christ. But his light still shines through his marvelous word and his people. Join in with David and Christ and shine the light of God.
By George Slover
