"Then the commanders of the Philistines went out to battle, and it happened as often as they went out, that David behaved himself more wisely than all the servants of Saul. So his name was highly esteemed." - 1 Samuel 18.30
In his attempt to eliminate David, Saul placed him over 1,000 soldiers, in the hopes that the Philistines will kill David in battle. However, the text says that David behaved more wisely than all the servants of Saul. The Hebrew word used means "to be prudent," or "to have insight". When David in on the battlefield he is not carelessly engaging the Philistines, but tactfully and intelligently fighting the enemy. He is not rashly risking his life, or the lives of his men. And because of this, he gains great respect among the army.
Men, how do you act when faced with a difficult task? Do you strike quickly, blindly charging ahead, hoping to take the enemy by surprise? Or do you examine the possible casualties and make your decisions based on the wisest course of action?
David was a warrior, a man who knew battle first hand, and was not afraid of engaging the enemy. However, he did not carelessly waste the lives of his men to achieve victory. His behavior was wise, showing that he valued the lives of each of his men as his own. This level of care brought him respect, and favor with the people.
Let us be men who weigh the risks, and work to protect those we lead. May we never carelessly waste time and resources by blindly moving forward. Let us lead with wisdom.
"Iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another."
To God alone be the Glory!
Strength and Honor
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