The Armor Bearer

Jonathon was the son of King Saul - the first king of Israel. While Saul was deficient in godly character, Jonathon was not. He was a courageous man of faith. He helped lead Israel to several military victories but also was very close to another man of God - David. They were like brothers.

In 1 Samuel 14, we are told of a time when Jonathon and his “armor bearer” take on 20 Philistines and slaughter them. This was at the same time that Saul and the rest of the Israelite army were afraid and in hiding because they were so outnumbered by the imposing Philistines. The rout by these 2 brave and faithful men led to God’s intervention and a total victory that day for the Israelites over the Philistines.

An “armor bearer” was not just a random person that was selected to assist those in the royal family with their armor. They were selected because of their bravery, trustworthiness and savvy as warriors. They were the best of the best and were charged with arming, protecting, and guiding their master in the battlefield.

In this particular story the “armor bearer” is mentioned several times but his name is never given. He is a nameless hero doing his duty with excellence. It struck me that this nameless person is like most of us. While our names may not be in the history books one day, we all have a role to play as “armor bearers.” We also have “armor bearers” of our own - those that bear arms for us.

While there aren’t physical armor bearers today like Jonathon had - think of them in a figurative sense. Armor bearers are brave and loyal. They are prayer warriors who offer support, guidance, protection and encouragement. In that light, for whom are you an armor bearer? Spouse, children, friends, other family members? We should all “bear armor” for others. How are we doing in this role?

We also have those that “bear armor” for us - both past and present. Have we shown gratitude to them for this important role in our lives. The impact and example that these “armor bearers” have set enable us to go and do the same for others.

Bear arms for those in your care and show gratitude for those who “bear arms” for you.

Stay hungry,

Big E

Matt. 5:6