This chapter parallels yesterday’s. It tells us of David’s conquests and spoils, and his administration.
“So David reigned over all Israel, and he administered justice and equity to all his people. And Joab the son of Zeruiah was over the army; and Jehoshaphat the son of Ahilud was recorder; and Zadok the son of Ahitub and Ahimelech the son of Abiathar were priests; and Shavsha was secretary; and Benaiah the son of Jehoiada was over the Cherethites and the Pelethites; and David’s sons were the chief officials in the service of the king.” (v14-17)
I’m not sure if you enjoy looking into names in the Bible, but I do. For example, Zadok and Ahimelech are both direct descendants of Aaron (Moses’ brother). Ahimelech is also the grandson of Ahimelech, who gave David the holy bread in Nob (and was then executed by Saul in a massacre).
Many names are reused in the Bible (examples above include Ahimelech and Ahitub). It was commonplace to name a child after someone of influence (perhaps an ancestor or mentor), and that practice continues to this day.
Names have power. It was common for masters to rename their slaves in an attempt to make them more subservient (remember Zaphenath-paneah and Belteshazzar?). It was also common in the NT for people to receive new names when they became a Christ follower. This new name would often better represent their new life (eg. Simon -> Peter, Saul -> Paul, etc.). In heaven, Christ followers will be given a new name, written on a white stone, know only to Jesus and the one who receives it (Rev. 2:17).
In the mean time, I encourage us to live up to our new name, found in our identity in Christ. I realize you didn’t likely receive a literal new name when you started following Jesus (I didn’t, don’t worry if you didn’t). What I’m referring to is one or all of the names which God has already called us – Redeemed, Beloved, Son/Daughter of God, Co-Heir with Christ, and collectively we are called the Body of Christ (and Bride of Christ). Those are examples of new names we can live up to right now. Let’s live lives that identify us with Jesus, supporting our namesake, bringing glory to our Heavenly Father, and our Savior/Groom/Co-Heir Jesus.
Father God, our beloved Father and Most High King, You have blessed us beyond words. Thank you for giving us a new name. Thank you for giving us identity and purpose. Thank you for loving us so much that You gave Jesus as our Redeemer and Groom. Please guide us to uphold Your namesake, to bring You glory, and be instruments for adoption of more brothers and sisters. May we fully embrace Your callings, and bring many more siblings into the family in accordance with Your guidance and will. In the name of Jesus Christ, our beloved Co-Heir, amen.
~ Conqueror in Training