Good morning,
Helping others is important. Although not showy, it encourages, strengthens, and lifts up others.
We will look at four individuals who helped others. Ruth, Barnabas, Paul, and Barzillai. Their stories recall friendships, service, and commitment.
Barzillai and David: Physical help when needed
“And it came to pass, when David was come to Mahanaim, that Shobi the son of Nahash of Rabbah of the children of Ammon, and Machir the son of Ammiel of Lodebar, and Barzillai the Gileadite of Rogelim,28 Brought beds, and basins, and earthen vessels, and wheat, and barley, and flour, and parched corn, and beans, and lentils, and parched pulse,29 And honey, and butter, and sheep, and cheese of kine, for David, and for the people that were with him, to eat: for they said, The people is hungry, and weary, and thirsty, in the wilderness.” (Samuel 17:27-29)
“And Barzillai the Gileadite came down from Rogelim, and went over Jordan with the king, to conduct him over Jordan.32 Now Barzillai was a very aged man, even fourscore years old: and he had provided the king of sustenance while he lay at Mahanaim; for he was a very great man.” (2 Samuel 19:31-32)
David was fleeing Jerusalem. Absalom rebelled against his father the King and had captured Jerusalem. David and his people were tired, hungry, and weary. They needed sustenance. Barzillai provided that for them.
Barzillai was a wealthy man who supported King David. Barzillai’s support allowed David and his people to escape.
Do we share our bounty with others? It is God that allows us to get wealth. It is our responsibility to use those resources to God’s honor and glory.
Do we? Barzillai did!
Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001
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