Chapter 11 tells the story of the anointing of David as king, which in fact was his third one, in Hebron after the death of Saul. It makes no reference to the seven years in which David reigned over Judah, but began with the crowning at Hebron when all Israel acknowledged his leadership. In fact, the phrase “all Israel” was repeated thrice in verses 1, 4, and 10.

Now “all Israel” acknowledged David’s leadership, because he was an Israelite himself (verse 1, “we are your bone and flesh”). He had also already displayed his ability to lead (verse 2, “he led out and brought in Israel”). Finally, it was evident that God had called him to shepherd and to lead the Israelites (verse 2, “you shall be shepherd of my people Israel, and you shall be prince over my people Israel”). It is heartening to see how the Israelites acknowledged a king chosen by Yahweh, and according to what God had set out in Deuteronomy 17, when they first requested for a king like the other nations.

Do we choose a leader like “all Israel” declared David to be king? Do we choose leaders who are disciples of Christ, who demonstrate the capability to lead God’s people, who have an evident call from God, who are dependent on God to lead His people? For those who are leaders in church, are we leaders like that?

The second part of this chapter recorded the names of David’s mighty men, warriors who worked alongside him and served him. They were unswerving in their loyalty (verse 10, “who gave him strong support in his kingdom”), and the “brotherhood” in their support for the leadership was important in decisive. David was a great leader, their great leader, but a leader is nothing without people who were willing to follow him. These mighty men gave David the support he needed to lead.

Are we the mighty men our leaders need to lead? Are we the mighty men our pastors need to lead? May we come together to serve God as a body of Christ, so that we may encourage one another in our service, to press on in courage, and to press on in faithfulness.

Prayer: Dear God, thank you for allowing me to participate in Your Kingdom’s work. Help me Lord, to serve you from a posture of humility, in response to your call, and in love to my fellow brothers and sisters. In Jesus name I pray, Amen.