the Fourth Week after Easter
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Daily Devotionals
Day by Day Devotional - Year 2 of 5
2 Samuel 23:13-39
We have here the roll of honour of the king’s companions. In the past they have fought and suffered with him; now they also reign with him (2 Timothy 2:12). A glorious page where each name, each exploit, is faithfully placed on record! In the same way, nothing will be forgotten of all that the Lord has allowed us to do for Him. Has He not promised, "Whosoever shall give to drink unto one of these little ones a cup of cold water only . . . shall in no wise lose his reward" (Matthew 10:42). Think of the way in which the three valiant men set out for the well at Bethlehem; they risked their lives for a little fresh water! But the least desire of the captain they loved called, in their eyes, for such a sacrifice. "These things did these three mighty men" (v. 17). Are we ready for acts of devotion out of love for a greater Master?
The Lord assesses precisely the difficulties of whatever is done for Him: to kill a lion is in itself far from ordinary, but the snow made it far more difficult for the courageous Benaiah. Indeed, this bad weather is specially mentioned!
Then comes the list of the names of the heroes. They are all there; precious to the heart of the king, the faithful Uriah is among them (v. 39). On the other hand, despite all his activity, Joab’s name is not included.
