Following the Favored
Meanwhile one of Joab’s men stood near Amasa, and said, “Whoever favors Joab and whoever is for David—follow Joab!” - 2 Samuel 20:11
Notice, with Amasa now dead, Joab needed to be promoted. One of his men had to advocate for him as the favored man to follow. These seasoned warriors were loyal to David and had fought alongside Joab as the king’s captain for years. They would have readily followed their familiar chief commander––whether they fully trusted him was debatable. But for now, he had regained his much sought after position, as their captain.
Besides, even though Amasa had been promoted to captain by David, his loyal men knew, in the past, he was chosen captain over Absalom’s army––a lead person in his son’s rebellion. At one time, Amasa was their archenemy, who they had faced on the opposing side of the battle field. The men might not have fully trusted him or given him their allegiance.
Most people will follow the favored; those men who are often popular with the crowds. But what kind of leaders should we follow? Jethro encouraged Moses, as he led the newly formed nation of Israel, to find qualified leaders to help him govern the multitudes. He told Moses: …select from all the people able men, such as fear God, men of truth, hating covetousness; and place such over them… (Exodus 18:21).
The twelve disciples also needed godly men to help them serve the people’s arising needs. They met and decided on their qualifications.
Notice how they chose men who were filled with the Holy Spirit:
Therefore, brethren, seek out from among you seven men of good reputation, full of the Holy Spirit and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business (Acts 6:3).
Follow the man in whom you see God’s anointing on the forehead.
~Raul Ries~
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