To reach the Philistine outpost, Jonathan had to go down between two rocky cliffs that were called Bozez and Seneh. The cliff on the north was in front of Micmash, and the one on the south was in front of Geba. “Let’s go across to the outpost of those pagans,” Jonathan said to his armor bearer. “Perhaps the Lord will help us, for nothing can hinder the Lord. He can win a battle whether he has many warriors or only a few!” “Do what you think is best,” the armor bearer replied. “I’m with you completely, whatever you decide.” [1 Samuel 14.4-7]
What an amazing demonstration of faith found in Jonathan, the son of king Saul of Israel. I suppose countless sermons and teachings on faith have been delivered on Jonathan's bold and resigned faith in God.
However today, I am focused on Jonathan's unnamed and faithful armor bearer.
Here's the deal, this unnamed soul had no direction straight from God. But he still trusted what God was doing through Jonathan his leader. Consequently, he followed his leader Jonathan in a military endeavor of unmatched faith and bravery.
Jonathan's armor bearer obviously trusted him and God.
I don't think this is a lesson to always just be a follower. But I do think it is an important lesson in following another when we have no other direction.
The armor bearer's witness to all who read this story is that there are times to engage with others in the direction the feel God is leading them. What military action succeeds when everyone just does their own thing? It requires a common goal - and usually one man will ultimately determine that direction. Then, it falls upon everyone else to follow.
So, we can ask ourselves this Jonathan-like question: "What has God told me to do?"
However, we must also be prepared with this armor bearer-like question: "What has God shown someone else to do that I can join with?"
Father help us to know when to lead and when to follow. Help us to exercise faith in both!
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