David and his warriors returned after a march with the Philistines against Judah. The Philistine commanders thought David would turn against them, so they sent them back before the combat began. After being rescued, they returned home to discover their city destroyed and their families kidnapped. David did not act without consulting the LORD. The LORD dispatched him against the Amalekites, who had torched their city. It is remarkable that Saul lost the kingdom for sparing the Amalekite monarch, yet David is about to rise to power following a war with them.
They had marched for so long that one-third of David’s troops were unable to continue. Two-thirds marched on and fought for 24 hours straight, recapturing everything and claiming a large quantity of spoils. When they returned to the others, some refused to share the fruits of combat. David had the correct perspective. He claimed that the victory was God’s, and hence everyone had a right to the spoils. Those who stayed behind and cared for their homes are just as deserved as those who went to combat.
Some people believe that missionaries and pastors will receive all the celestial rewards. They would not be where they are without the prayers and financial assistance of those who remain behind. The spoils will be shared by everyone. Even the angels in heaven rejoice over each soul that enters the Kingdom.
Consider this: Regardless of our individual contributions, we are all in this together. Are I doing my part?
1 Samuel 30:22-24 22But all the evil men and troublemakers among David’s followers said, “Because they did not go out with us, we will not share with them the plunder we recovered. However, each man may take his wife and children and go.” 23David replied, “No, my brothers, you must not do that with what the LORD has given us. He has protected us and handed over to us the forces that came against us. 24Who will listen to what you say? The share of the man who stayed with the supplies is to be the same as that of him who went down to the battle. All will share alike.”
