Order Among The Ranks

Abishai, the brother of Joab, was the leader of the Thirty. He once used his spear to kill 300 enemy warriors in a single battle. It was by such feats that he became as famous as the Three. Abishai was the most famous of the Thirty and was their commander, though he was not one of the Three. [1 Chronicles 11.20-21]

The distinction between David's men may seem of no significance to the casual reader, but I believe it means something to us today.

There was order among the ranks of David's men. In those closest to David, there were two groups: the Three and the Thirty (thirty-seven actually). Each of these men was unique in his own respective right and corporately they were a notable force.

It must have been quite an honor to have been included in the ranks of the Thirty, but one can only imagine the honor it would have been to be named one of the Three!

I wonder if this speaks to us today? Do we need to aspire to be associated with a unique and limited group in which we find some earthly expression? How might that look? What purpose might it serve?

Or, are there natural leaders among us who need to gather similar groups around them? What does that look like?

We are all called to be purveyors of the Gospel of Christ. From this starting point, we might then surmise our individual roles - perhaps even based on performance in the intended goal. In the execution of the Great Commission, there will be those who lead and those who follow. What a blessing for those who find peace in whatever role they find themselves in. But, it all starts with identifying each man and his role. Hmm.

Father, as I consider the information I read today regarding David and his men, I am compelled to understand how that might apply to me... Help me to understand!