What can we learn about loyalty from Abiathar's actions in 1 Samuel 22:21? Verse for Consideration “Abiathar informed David that Saul had slaughtered the priests of the LORD.” (1 Samuel 22:21) Quick Background - Saul’s jealousy drives him to murder the priests at Nob (22:18–19). - Abiathar, the lone surviving priest, escapes and heads straight for David, God’s chosen but still-fugitive king. - By taking this step, Abiathar puts his life, calling, and future entirely in David’s hands. Abiathar’s Expression of Loyalty - Places truth above personal safety: he reports the horror honestly instead of hiding in fear. - Aligns with God’s anointed: joins David when it appears risky, echoing Proverbs 17:17. - Bears costly solidarity: loses family, position, home—yet chooses faithfulness, like Ruth did with Naomi (Ruth 1:16–17). - Commits long-term: remains David’s priest through wilderness years and into kingship (2 Samuel 8:17). Hallmarks of God-Honoring Loyalty Drawn from Abiathar - Steadfast in crisis • Loyalty shines brightest when the cost is highest (John 6:68). - Rooted in covenant, not convenience • Abiathar doesn’t calculate advantage; he follows God’s plan (Psalm 89:34). - Willing to serve quietly • No demand for status; he simply brings the ephod and ministers (1 Samuel 23:9). - Ready to suffer with the righteous • Chooses the hunted over the throne-room crowd, echoing Hebrews 11:25. What Loyalty Looks Like Today - Stand with those God calls us to, even when public opinion turns hostile. - Speak truth about evil, trusting the Lord with outcomes. - Seek God’s anointed—ultimately Christ—and remain faithful to Him above all earthly ties. - Value covenant relationships within church and family more than convenience or comfort. Takeaway Summary Abiathar’s flight to David models loyalty that is courageous, covenant-rooted, sacrificial, and steadfast. Such loyalty still honors God and serves His purposes in every generation. |
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