“When the Philistines were at war again with Israel, David and his servants with him went down and fought against the Philistines; and David grew faint. Then Ishbi-Benob, who was one of the sons of the giant…thought he could kill David. But 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.””
II Samuel 21:15-17 NKJV
Life is hard. Leadership is hard. I’ve often been guilty of trying to do it all myself – in both work and personal life – for a long time. And, asking for help? Well – if I ask for help, I desperately need it.
In meditating over this passage today, it dawned on me that David didn’t ask for help either. Abishai just saw the need and took over the battle – saving David’s life.
As I was thinking about the similarities to my own life – specifically my tendency to not ask for help, G-d pointed out a few things.
First – David didn’t go into battle alone. His servants and his fighting men went with him. G-d spoke softly to my heart – don’t go alone.
Second – David grew weary – maybe he should have stopped, but he kept going. I wonder if the giant noticed David’s exhaustion and that’s why he decided to attack. That I’ll never know but often the most vicious attacks from the enemy are when I’m physically and emotionally exhausted. It’s reason to pause.
Third – Abishai. We all need one of those – someone in our corner who will see our need, come to our aid, and push back the enemy on our behalf. Abishai’s aid saved the King’s life. Abishai was with David in battle. He was attentive to David and his physical state. Abishai saw the coming attack and stepped in.
I’ve had a few Abishai’s in my life – they show up beside me and just step in to fill a need they see. I want to be that person for those in my influence – an Abishai that comes along side to support and fight for my family and friends.
Maybe I’m not good at asking for help. I freely admit that. But maybe what I need to do is stop going alone. Maybe I need an Abishai on my side. After all – we are designed for community. We all long for deep connection even if we won’t admit or acknowledge it. May we, like Abishai, pay attention to those around us. May we, like Abishai, see the need and courageously step up in times of war and times of victory. Don’t go alone. Be an Abishai.
Father – thank You for faithful friends and parents who love me. Thank You for my husband and children. Give me a heart to serve like Abishai and the wisdom and courage to step back and rest before I become faint. Give me grace to walk in Your way today. You are good. Your leadership in my life is perfect and You can be trusted. Amen.
Daily Reading: 2 Samuel 19-21