I Samuel 22:2
“Then everyone who was in distress, and everyone who was in debt, and everyone who was discontented gathered to him; and he became captain over them. Now there were about four hundred men with him.”
I love this. David is very much a Christlike figure in this story. All of us came to Christ because of a need. These dissatisfied individuals flocked to David. He was a brave, hopeful leader. David is one who they would follow into battle. We trust them; we've got a sense they know what they're doing and that they are winners.
Jesus says in Matthew 11:28-30 "Come to Me, all who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and YOU WILL FIND REST FOR YOUR SOULS. For My yoke is comfortable, and My burden is light.” Jesus leads us into a different kind of battle, one that fights for souls.
The tactics are those of love. Luke 29:6 gives some details, "Whoever hits you on the cheek, offer him the other also; and whoever takes away your cloak, do not withhold your tunic from him either. Give to everyone who asks of you, and whoever takes away what is yours, do not demand it back." This is different behavior for a society that demands it's rights.
Jesus is greater than culture. We take our orders from Him. We are to defend others, but not to worry about our rights. That was Jesus' way. His anger was evident when leaders distorted the way to God and when the adulterous woman was set up.
Many are attracted to strength. Our society misses this aspect of Jesus. They see Him drawing lambs and children to Himself. But the way He defended others and His ability to not get defensive was powerful.
Some have made a mess of their lives and are attracted to strong leaders. David was one of them. Today's passage says those that were in debt or discontented followed Him. They would have to address their debt at some time, but David represented something more noble. He was strong and God fearing. They could pause their problems for a time. Maybe their volunteering would build parts of themselves that could help them tackle their problems in the future.
Jesus calls us to something greater than ourselves. He says in Revelation 3:20, "Behold, I stand at the door and knock; if anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and will dine with him, and he with Me." As we open our lives to Jesus, He works on the broken parts. Any of the human vices and be set right with Jesus. We might follow Him for one reason, but He will help in any of our difficulties.
Lord, thank You for calling us. You gave us purpose and healing grace. Even though our lives may have been a mess, You've come in and brought healing.