What can we learn from Ahimaaz's desire to deliver news to David? Setting the Scene “Then Ahimaaz son of Zadok said, ‘Let me run and bring the king the good news that the LORD has brought justice by delivering him from the hand of his enemies.’ ” (2 Samuel 18:19) Eagerness Rooted in Faith • Ahimaaz’s first impulse is to credit the LORD, not himself. • He calls the report “good news,” recognizing God’s hand in victory. • His urgency springs from confidence that the event fulfills God’s covenant promises (cf. Deuteronomy 20:4; Psalm 44:4–5). Serving Under Authority • Although zealous, Ahimaaz seeks permission from Joab (vv. 19–20), modeling respect for delegated leadership (Hebrews 13:17). • Obedience accompanies enthusiasm; he will not run until released, echoing the principle in Matthew 8:9 of being “under authority.” Persistence That Honors God • Joab initially sends the Cushite, yet Ahimaaz respectfully persists: “Whatever happens, please let me run” (v. 23). • God often channels zeal through patience (Galatians 6:9). Ahimaaz doesn’t rebel; he waits for the go-ahead. The Beauty of Proclaiming Good News • Isaiah 52:7 and Romans 10:15 celebrate “beautiful feet” that carry glad tidings. Ahimaaz literally embodies this picture. • His message mirrors the gospel pattern—God wins the victory; the messenger publicly announces it (1 Corinthians 15:57). Swift and Focused • He “ran by the way of the plain and outran the Cushite” (v. 23). Swiftness underscores: – Wholehearted devotion (Psalm 119:32). – A life uncluttered by distractions (1 Corinthians 9:24-26). • Spiritual takeaway: urgency fits joyful news; delay can dull its impact. Guarded Speech, Truthful Report • When questioned, Ahimaaz tells only what he knows: “I saw a great tumult, but I did not know what it was” (v. 29). • He refuses speculation, illustrating Proverbs 10:19—“he who restrains his lips is wise.” • Integrity protects both king and messenger; half-truths or rumors would compound David’s grief. Foreshadowing the Gospel Messenger • Like John the Baptist (John 1:23), Ahimaaz prepares the way before a king. • His joy in announcing deliverance previews believers’ call to herald Christ’s finished work: “Go into all the world and preach the gospel” (Mark 16:15). • The pattern stands: God acts, witnesses run, hearers respond. Putting It All Together Ahimaaz’s desire teaches: 1. Eager faith celebrates God’s victories. 2. Zeal submits to rightful authority. 3. Persistence, rightly channeled, honors God. 4. Good news deserves speed and accuracy. 5. Truthful restraint is as vital as enthusiastic proclamation. May our own “running” reflect the same joyful, obedient urgency whenever the LORD grants us news worth sharing. |
    |