MAN WHO KEPT KING GOING
The Man Who Kept the King Going
History tends to remember kings, presidents, generals, war heroes, and all kinds of great leaders. Their names fill the pages of history books, while countless others who quietly served behind the scenes are forgotten, almost as if they did not matter at all. But the truth of the matter is that sometimes the people who have the greatest impact are not those standing in the spotlight, but those faithfully serving in the shadows. One such man was Barzillai.
When King David fled Jerusalem during Absalom's rebellion, he crossed the Jordan River with weary, discouraged, and hungry men. They had no doubt traveled many miles in haste, because they had been driven from their homes and they faced an uncertain future. At one of the darkest moments in David's life, an elderly man named Barzillai thought to do what few would.
Scripture tells us that Barzillai brought beds for the exhausted, bowls and vessels for cooking, wheat and barley for bread, flour, roasted grain, beans, lentils, honey, butter, sheep, and cheese for David's men (2 Samuel 17:27-29). He understood what they needed because, as the text says, "the people is hungry, and weary, and thirsty, in the wilderness."
Barzillai had not fought in this battle, and as far as we know, he had never known battle. He never wore a crown and likely never carried a sword. Yet he knew what his king needed, and through his quiet act of generosity he strengthened the king and his army for the difficult days ahead. Amazingly, his faithfulness became part of God's providential care for David.
Years later, after David's throne had been restored, he did not forget the kindness that had been shown to him. He invited Barzillai to come live in Jerusalem under the king's care. By then Barzillai was eighty years old. Rather than seeking honor or comfort for himself, he humbly declined and asked that the blessing instead be extended to Chimham, likely his son or another younger relative, or perhaps one who assisted Barzillai in attending to David’s needs (2 Samuel 19:31-39). Even in old age, Barzillai was thinking more about others than himself.
What a tremendous example of humility. And how awesome to be a part of God’s plan! This is indeed a beautiful lesson for every Christian. Not everyone is called to stand before a congregation, lead a ministry, or occupy a visible role in church leadership. But the kingdom of God has always depended on faithful servants whose names are known by few, though their work is known by God. Every encouraging note, every quiet prayer, every meal prepared, every visit made, every child taught, every act of generosity, and every unseen labor matters to the Lord.
Hebrews 6:10 reminds us, "For God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labour of love, which ye have shewed toward his name." God notices what others overlook. He remembers what the world forgets.
~ Casey Clement
>PS. This week, look for one opportunity to serve someone without seeking recognition. Encourage a struggling friend, prepare a meal for a family in need, write a note of encouragement, or quietly meet a need that no one else may ever know about. You may never receive public recognition for your kindness, but remember this: the King never forgets those who faithfully serve Him and His people.