1 Chronicles 12:1
“Now these are they that came to David to Ziklag, while he yet kept himself close because of Saul the son of Kish: and they were among the mighty men, helpers of the war.”
When you study the men who followed David, you find some characteristics in these men that would make a great Christian. These men whom David mentioned were not mentioned on accident, these men were men whom he could depend upon because of their characteristics. But just like David had men whom he could depend on, likewise we need some Christians who can emulate these characteristics. Here are some of the characteristics of these men who followed David.
First, we find these men were balanced men. In verse 2 we see these men were accurately able to use both their right and left hands while fighting. Christianity needs Christians who are balanced individuals. It takes hard work to become a balanced individual, but those who are balanced Christians will be greatly used in the work of the LORD.
Secondly, they were prepared for the battle. In verse 8 the Scriptures say these men were “...fit for the battle...” I fear that today's Christian is not ready to face the battle against Satan and the world. The reason why is because in order to be prepared, you must study the Word of God. Most Christians find it inconvenient to spend time studying the Word of God. You will never be prepared to fight Satan, the world, compromise, temptation and sin without spending time studying the Word of God.
Thirdly, these men were not easily disturbed. In verse 8 the Scriptures say these men were men “...whose face were like the faces of lions...” In other words, these men didn't let the battles of life faze them. One thing I have seen in Christianity is there are too many whiny Christians. I frequently hear Christians who whine about how hard it is to serve God. Let me remind you we are in a battle. There is no battle that is going to be easy. If you are going to be a great Christian, then you must not let the battles and hardships of serving God faze you. You must take them, as they are a part of fighting for Christ.
Fourthly, in verse 18 we find that these men were filled with the Spirit. A Christian will never become a great Christian without being filled with the Holy Spirit of God. Spirit filled Christians will do great works for God.
Next, in verse 33 we learn that these men stayed in their own area. Great Christians don't concern themselves with areas that are not their responsibilities. Great Christians realize they have their own area that they must take care of, and their own area needs their full attention. You will never be able to give your area the full attention it needs while worrying about what everyone else is doing.
Lastly, in verse 33 we learn these men were loyal. Great Christians are loyal people. They are loyal to truth and their leaders. If you don't learn loyalty, then you will never accomplish being a great Christian.
How great of a Christian are you? If you find yourself lacking in one of these areas, then work on it. We need every Christian to become a great Christian if we are going to influence this world for Christ.
To contact Evangelist Allen Domelle, send an email to contact@oldpathsjournal.com.
1 comment:
I thought Jesus taught more non-violence, I suppose many people try to interpret the Bible to suit their own needs.
It's interesting how some Christians seem to really like the bloody, violent old-testament, and tend to ignore the New Testament. I suppose some should ask themselves why they are Christians in the first place -- why not be Jewish?
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