TAKING SIDES

TAKING SIDES 

Justice versus injustice, evil against goodwill, oppression or liberty – all choices made on a daily basis by each of us that demonstrate our heart’s condition.

Looking at I Chronicles 12, there is a picture of this struggle in the Israelite camp. Saul and David were not on the same side of God’s mandate for leadership. The situation demanded choices be made by the people. So, a battle ensued regarding who should be king. Although David was on the side of ‘right,’ he found it necessary to hide as Saul sought to kill him. It wasn’t long before friends and family joined in support of David.
This group included those who had fought beside David as well as fierce commanders themselves. They believed in his ability to lead well, observed his trust in and dependence on the Lord and humility in his relationship to Saul. These volunteering comrades showed up carrying weapons of war, i.e., bows and arrows, stones, shields and spears to defend David, preserving him for kingship.
David’s reaction, seen in verse 17, reveals his awareness that some might have ulterior motives for being there; “If you come in peace to help me, we are friends. If you come to betray me – then may God see and punish you.” Once loyalty was determined, they partied for three days celebrating unity in their cause.
We, too, have choices as to whose side we are on - whether we are joining God and His plan or going our own way.
He has already said He is on our side (Rom. 8:31).

But who do we stand with and fight and why?
Like these warriors, we cannot be neutral; we are either friend or foe to those needing justice, goodwill, liberty, support and allegiance. “...choose this day whom you will serve...”

Joshua 24:15 (ESV)

by Joy Pedersen