Tangible Forms of Encouragement

Scripture: When David came to Mahanaim, Shobi son of Nahash from Rabbah of the Ammonites, and Makir son of Ammiel from Lo Debar, and Barzillai the Gileadite from Rogelim brought bedding and bowls and articles of pottery. They also brought wheat and barley, flour and roasted grain, beans and lentils, honey and curds, sheep, and cheese from cows’ milk for David and his people to eat. For they said, “The people have become exhausted and hungry and thirsty in the wilderness.” 2 Samuel 17:27-29

Observation: As David flees from Abasalom, he is greeted by supporters. In this case, three men bring both food and comforts for David and all his men. This would have been a lot in both value and effort, caring for 12,000 warriors. David did not ask for this, and assisting David could be dangerous given how the tides have gone in this coup. However, these citizens love David and take this generous step without any hesitation.

Application: There is an encouragement I have received in life - and that I can give to others - that means more than any kind word or piece of wisdom. It is an act of service, responding to a person's needs, at the moment where doing so cannot be rewarded by the receiver, is opposed by popular opinion, and may even be a hardship for the giver.

Shobi, Makir, and Barzillai - three names we never hear of - do just this; They give to David exactly what he needs, when he is at his lowest, at a time when he can absolutely do nothing for them and when doing this could bring future punishment. Immediately, the tides turn, and David's men defeat Absalom, likely because they were physically and mentally prepared to do so (and, yes, because the Lord was with them).

I can look for ways to help people like this. Certainly there are those around me hitting low points in life, and I can do more for them than give them a pat on the back, a word of experienced advice, and a prayer. I can serve them in a way that fulfills an immediate need, and shows them the love of Christ.

Prayer: Lord, my son and wife are at this kind of a low point as you know. I do try to support and serve them. There are certainly others around me who are at a similar point, perhaps related to jobs or family or personal issues. May I not just be kind to them in the days to come, but may I receive your wisdom to serve them in a manner that uplifts and encourages them, as you would have done. Amen.