This chapter describes a rebellion in Israel led by Sheba, a Benjaminite. We are also told of more dirty deeds of Joab and Abishai, the sons of Zeruiah.
“Now there happened to be there a worthless man, whose name was Sheba, the son of Bichri, a Benjaminite. And he blew the trumpet and said, ‘We have no portion in David, and we have no inheritance in the son of Jesse; every man to his tents, O Israel!’ So all the men of Israel withdrew from David and followed Sheba the son of Bichri. But the men of Judah followed their king steadfastly from the Jordan to Jerusalem.” (v1-2)
Last chapter David replaces Joab, his general, with Amasa (perhaps David was upset Joab disobeyed his orders and executed his son Absalom). Amasa is tasked with assembling some troops. In the meantime, Abishai is sent to chase down Sheba, the rebellion leader. Joab tracks down Amasa, and murders him in cold blood under false pretenses of peace. He and his brother Abishai then ruthlessly pursue, and force the execution of Sheba.
In our current age we have all kinds of scandals and tabloid-worthy news stories. This is nothing new – David lived in those same times. There were ruthless killers such as the sons of Zeruiah, conmen such as Sheba, leaders poor/no godly morals, and innocent people being killed (such as Amasa and Abner). It was all very scandalous back then too.
One of our takeaways from this can be to prayerfully discern our sources of influence. All of these people had followers: the king(s), the generals, the advisors, the rebellion leaders, etc. It seems like the majority of people in Israel/Judah would flip-flop back and forth as to who they would follow (basically whoever seemed to be in charge in the moment). It was very helter-skelter.
We have the advantage of being able to follow Jesus, a clearly great choice of role model. We have also been given the Holy Spirit, an indwelling guide who wishes to steer us toward God the Father. If we make God our primary influence, and model our lives after those who truly serve God, we will glorify Him and encourage others to glorify Him.
Jesus said ” ‘You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.’ ” (Mt 5:14-16)
If we follow worldly wisdom and leaders, we’ll likely bring darkness to this world, and experience far greater consequences than we can bear. If we follow God, we can be light in the darkness, an extension of who Jesus is. The choice is ours as to how we wish to live and influence those around us.
Father God, our Brilliant Light in the Darkness, holy, holy, holy is Your name. Thank you for providing us with Christ-honoring influences in our lives. Thank you as well for the gift of Your Spirit, who can help mold us into Christ-honoring influences. May we be salt and light in this world, following in the footsteps of Jesus. For Your honor, glory and praise, forever and ever, amen.
~ Conqueror in Training