Topical Bible: Thankfulness: To the Men of Jabesh-Gilead

Bible > Topical > Thankfulness

◄ Thankfulness: To the Men of Jabesh-Gilead ►

Jump to: Nave's • Library • Subtopics • Terms

Topical Encyclopedia

The concept of thankfulness is deeply embedded in the biblical narrative, often reflecting a heart aligned with God's will and purposes. One notable instance of thankfulness is demonstrated by David towards the men of Jabesh-Gilead, as recorded in the Old Testament.

Historical Context

The men of Jabesh-Gilead are first introduced in the context of King Saul's reign. When Nahash the Ammonite besieged Jabesh-Gilead, the inhabitants sought help from Israel. Saul, newly anointed as king, rallied the Israelites and delivered the city, establishing his leadership and earning the gratitude of the people of Jabesh-Gilead (1 Samuel 11).

The Act of Valor

After Saul's death in battle against the Philistines, the Philistines desecrated his body and those of his sons, fastening them to the wall of Beth-shan. The men of Jabesh-Gilead, in a courageous act of loyalty and gratitude for Saul's earlier deliverance, retrieved the bodies under the cover of night. They brought them back to Jabesh, burned them, and buried the bones under a tamarisk tree, fasting for seven days in mourning (1 Samuel 31:11-13).

David's Response

Upon learning of Saul's death and the actions of the men of Jabesh-Gilead, David expressed profound thankfulness. He sent messengers to them, saying, "May you be blessed by the LORD, because you have shown this kindness to Saul your lord when you buried him. Now may the LORD show you loving devotion and faithfulness, and I too will show you the same favor because you have done this" (2 Samuel 2:5-6). David's message underscores the biblical principle of honoring those who act righteously and with loyalty.

Theological Implications

David's thankfulness to the men of Jabesh-Gilead highlights several key theological themes:

1. Loyalty and Gratitude: The men of Jabesh-Gilead exemplified loyalty to Saul, their former king, despite his fallen status. Their actions remind believers of the importance of gratitude and loyalty, even when it may not be convenient or safe.

2. Recognition of Righteous Acts: David's acknowledgment and blessing upon the men illustrate the biblical principle of recognizing and rewarding righteous deeds. This reflects God's own nature, as He is described as a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him (Hebrews 11:6).

3. Divine Favor and Human Response: David's prayer for God's loving devotion and faithfulness upon the men of Jabesh-Gilead demonstrates the interplay between divine favor and human response. It suggests that acts of kindness and loyalty are not only to be recognized by fellow humans but are also seen and rewarded by God.

4. Leadership and Encouragement: David's response serves as a model for godly leadership, where leaders are called to encourage and bless those who act with integrity and courage. It reflects a heart that values and uplifts the community's moral and spiritual fabric.

In summary, the thankfulness expressed by David to the men of Jabesh-Gilead is a profound example of biblical gratitude, loyalty, and the recognition of righteous deeds. It serves as an enduring lesson for believers to honor and appreciate acts of valor and kindness, reflecting the heart of God in their interactions with others.

Nave's Topical Index

2 Samuel 2:5-7
And David sent messengers to the men of Jabeshgilead, and said to them, Blessed be you of the LORD, that you have showed this kindness to your lord, even to Saul, and have buried him.
Nave's Topical Index

Library

The King.
... He sends grateful messages to Jabesh-Gilead; he will not begin ... we read, "The king
and his men went to ... the Lord" (2 Samuel 7. The same thankfulness which glows ...
//christianbookshelf.org/maclaren/the life of david/ix the king.htm