Both books of Chronicles include information that repeats things we learned in 1 and 2 Kings. However, because these books were written by a different author who had a different focus, there is additional information and another perspective that fleshes out the history of the Israelites.
Today's Devotion: 1 Chronicles 11:22-25
22 Benaiah son of Jehoiada was a valiant fighter from Kabzeel, who performed great exploits. He struck down two of Moab's best men. He also went down into a pit on a snowy day and killed a lion. 23 And he struck down an Egyptian who was seven and a half feet tall. Although the Egyptian had a spear like a weaver's rod in his hand, Benaiah went against him with a club. He snatched the spear from the Egyptian's hand and killed him with his own spear. 24 Such were the exploits of Benaiah son of Jehoiada; he too was as famous as the three mighty men. 25 He was held in greater honor than any of the Thirty, but he was not included among the Three. And David put him in charge of his bodyguard. (NIV)
Taken from www.biblegateway.com
The entire eleventh chapter of 1 Chronicles is essentially a dedication to the mightiest warriors in King David's army. Some 35 men are named -- there are three who are considered the 'mightiest', two who are separated out from the rest, and thirty more who are named. The text mentions that these men are famous and are held in great honor by the Israelites for their bravery and their amazing accomplishments. They were the heroes of the day who protected the kingdom at risk of their own lives.
What a sad comparison to look at the people we hold in high esteem today. Honestly, it's hard to look at any magazine or newspaper and find people who are so dedicated to our country. Instead we see flashy idols who sell the most records, who win games for a popular team, or who are on Hollywood's 'most beautiful' list. In fact, the most 'popular' and talked about people are those who have really messed up their lives.
In the meantime, thousands of every day heroes are sweating in combat gear in a desert on the other side of the world. You can meet a few of them at anysoldier.com. Please pray for our soldiers and their families today!
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