II Samuel 23

“When one rules justly over men, ruling in the fear of God, he dawns on them like the morning light …” (v3-4).  David’s last words contrast the prosperity of a good kingdom with its opposite: “worthless men” who bring destruction on everyone (v6-7).  David led Israel with the help of “mighty men,” loyal warriors who were unusually courageous (v8-39).  These men kept fighting after they were exhausted, jumped into pits with lions, and stood their ground when everyone else ran away (v9).  Their actions helped all Israel succeed.

“And the Lord worked a great victory” (v10, 12). We each have a crucial part to play in God’s work; the victory is His, yet we get to share in it.