How does Ahimaaz's eagerness to run reflect our zeal for God's work? The Scene in 2 Samuel 18:19 “Then Ahimaaz son of Zadok said, ‘Please let me run and tell the king the good news that the LORD has vindicated him by delivering him from the hand of his enemies.’ ” • Ahimaaz has just witnessed Absalom’s defeat. • He burns to carry the “good news” (literally, gospel) to David without delay. • His desire is so strong that he pleads twice with Joab and ultimately outruns the Cushite messenger (vv. 22–23). What Fueled Ahimaaz’s Urgency • Confidence in the message: the LORD had acted decisively. • Personal loyalty: David is not merely a king; he is God’s anointed. • Habit of readiness: earlier Ahimaaz was trusted to carry secret news (2 Samuel 17:17–21). • Joyful privilege: the Hebrew verb translated “run” carries eagerness, not mere duty. • Example echoed in Psalm 119:32—“I will run in the path of Your commandments, for You will enlarge my heart.” Parallels to Our Zeal for God’s Work • Proclaiming the greater good news: – Isaiah 52:7; Romans 10:15—beautiful feet that bring glad tidings. – Luke 24:46-47—repentance and forgiveness of sins proclaimed in His name. • Running the race set before us: – Hebrews 12:1—“let us run with endurance the race set out for us.” – 1 Corinthians 9:24-26—run to obtain the prize, not aimlessly. • Urgency shaped by love: – 2 Corinthians 5:14—Christ’s love compels. – John 9:4—work while it is day. • Loyalty to the true King: Matthew 28:18-20—He sends us; we go. Guardrails: Zeal with Truth and Wisdom • Ahimaaz outran the Cushite but arrived without the full story of Absalom’s death (2 Samuel 18:29-30). • Zeal must remain tethered to complete truth (Ephesians 4:15). • Obedience to proper authority: he waited for Joab’s permission before running—picture of submission in ministry (Hebrews 13:17). • Endurance, not flash: Galatians 6:9—do not grow weary; reward comes in due season. Running Well Today: Practical Takeaways • Start each day with clear sight of the gospel victory—joy fuels speed. • Stay spiritually fit: prayer, Scripture, fellowship keep legs strong (1 Timothy 4:7-8). • Speak the whole counsel of God; partial news confuses hearers. • Serve under accountability—pastors, elders, mature believers safeguard the race. • Maintain humble urgency: quick to obey, content to let God assign the results (Colossians 3:23). |
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