Citizens: Loyal: David's Soldiers
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David's soldiers are a remarkable example of loyalty and dedication in the biblical narrative. These men, often referred to as David's mighty men or warriors, played a crucial role in the establishment and expansion of David's kingdom. Their loyalty to David was not only a testament to their personal commitment but also a reflection of their faith in God's anointed king.

Formation and Loyalty

The formation of David's band of soldiers began during his time of fleeing from King Saul. As David sought refuge in the cave of Adullam, "everyone who was in distress or in debt or discontented gathered around him, and he became their commander. About four hundred men were with him" (1 Samuel 22:2). This group of men, initially composed of those marginalized by society, became fiercely loyal to David, recognizing his leadership and God's favor upon him.

The Mighty Men

Among David's soldiers, a special group known as the "mighty men" or "Gibborim" stood out for their extraordinary feats and unwavering loyalty. The Bible records their exploits in passages such as 2 Samuel 23:8-39 and 1 Chronicles 11:10-47. These men included:

· Josheb-Basshebeth: Chief of the captains, who wielded his spear against eight hundred men and killed them in one encounter (2 Samuel 23:8).
· Eleazar son of Dodo: One of the three mighty men who stood his ground and struck down the Philistines until his hand grew weary and stuck to the sword (2 Samuel 23:9-10).
· Shammah son of Agee: Defended a field of lentils from the Philistines, demonstrating his courage and loyalty (2 Samuel 23:11-12).

These mighty men were not only warriors but also exemplars of faith and devotion to David, whom they recognized as God's chosen leader.

Acts of Devotion

The loyalty of David's soldiers is further illustrated by their willingness to risk their lives for him. One notable incident occurred when David longed for water from the well of Bethlehem. Three of his mighty men broke through the Philistine camp to draw water for him, an act that David honored by pouring it out as an offering to the Lord, saying, "Far be it from me, O LORD, to do this! Is this not the blood of the men who risked their lives?" (2 Samuel 23:17).

Loyalty in Leadership

David's leadership was marked by his ability to inspire such loyalty among his men. His soldiers' dedication was not merely due to his military prowess but also his character and faith in God. David's reliance on God and his just treatment of his men fostered an environment where loyalty could thrive.

Legacy

The loyalty of David's soldiers had a lasting impact on the history of Israel. Their commitment helped secure David's reign and establish Jerusalem as the political and spiritual center of the nation. Their accounts continue to inspire believers to this day, serving as examples of faithfulness, courage, and devotion to God's chosen leaders.
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2 Samuel 18:12,13
And the man said to Joab, Though I should receive a thousand shekels of silver in my hand, yet would I not put forth my hand against the king's son: for in our hearing the king charged you and Abishai and Ittai, saying, Beware that none touch the young man Absalom.
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2 Samuel 23:15,16
And David longed, and said, Oh that one would give me drink of the water of the well of Bethlehem, which is by the gate!
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Library

The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus
... the city and took it, but the chief citizens had taken ... are described at length in
the duel between David and Goliath ... it was on land, and as soldiers, that they ...
/.../chapter iiithe hebrews and the.htm

The Puritan Conflict.
... Dr. David Masson (Prof. ... they were to the last among her most loyal subjects, and ... taking
their place among the most industrious, thrifty, and useful citizens. ...
/.../ 92 the puritan conflict.htm

St. Gregory the Great.
... exaction, of Byzantine despotism; and the most loyal of subjects ... political wisdom
and valour of her citizens had formed ... This brought to my mind king David's act ...
/.../allies/the formation of christendom volume vi/chapter v st gregory the.htm

A Traveler's Note-Book
... It is noticeable that Xenophon, the loyal disciple and biographer of Socrates, himself
of the best type of orthodox piety ... Later, we have David, the warrior king ...
/.../merriam/the chief end of man/iii a travelers note-book.htm

The Evangelical Revival.
... changed their whole manner of life and became sober, God-fearing citizens in
consequence ... David Hume's opinion of Whitefield's preaching has already been noticed ...
/.../chapter ix the evangelical revival.htm

Period iii. The Dissolution of the Imperial State Church and the ...
... it is necessary to ordain a bishop, the clergy and the leading citizens whose is
the ... in England of a church which would be in close and loyal dependence upon ...
/.../ayer/a source book for ancient church history/period iii the dissolution of.htm

Resources
How should a Christian respond to jury duty? | GotQuestions.org

What does the Bible say about conscientious objection? | GotQuestions.org

What is a publican in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

Citizens: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com

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Citizens: Loyal: Barzillai

Citizens: Loyal: David

Citizens: Loyal: David's Soldiers

Citizens: Loyal: Hushai

Citizens: Loyal: Israelites

Citizens: Loyal: Jehoiada

Citizens: Loyal: Joab

Citizens: Loyal: Mordecai

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Citizens: Wicked: Sons of Sennacherib

Citizens: Wicked: Theudas and Four-Hundred Seditious Persons

Citizens: Wicked: Zimri

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Citizens: Loyal: David
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