Band of Brothers

"David...escapted to the cave of Adullam. So when his brothers and all his father's house heard it, they went down there to him. And everyone who was in distress, everyone who was in debt, and everyone who was discontented gathered to him. So he became captain over them." I Sam 22:1-2

The amazing power of fellowship. It doesn't matter if every guy is a first round draft pick or a McDonald's All-American. Even the motliest of motley crews can bring tremendous power and encouragement to an individual. Reading the verses above, David's "brothers" seem more like a band of losers. However, their presence seems instrumental in David's turnaround: he went from fearfully hiding in a cave at the beginning of the chapter to bravely assuring a shaken priest that "with me you shall be safe" at the end of the chapter. More importantly, in the beginning of chapter 23 we see David returning to his Lord--seeking His will for his next course of action ("David inquired of the Lord, saying, 'Shall I go and attack these Philistines?'" I Sam 23:2).

I'm thankful for my small group brothers who give me the encouragement and boldness to take chances, make a doctor's appointment, leave work at a reasonable hour, own my junk, make morning time with God a consistent part of life, stay out the ditch of self-pity, manage my time better, persevere in running, and push on to greater service of others for the Lord's glory.

Thanks brothers!