Last Words
R. Erisman
2 Sam. 23 opens with these words: "Now these be the last words of David... the sweet psalmist of Israel." There follows a confession of an honest man reflecting on his entire life, in which he acknowledges that all too often he had fallen short of God's perfect standard. Yet David recognizes that God's mercy more than makes up for his shortcomings. He can contemplate with confidence his ultimate salvation because of God's everlasting covenant.
It is in this chapter that the Spirit of God chose to record a touching incident in David's life when honor was bestowed upon his faithful warriors. David is seen taking refuge from the Philistine armies in the cave of Adullam. In verse 15 we read: "And David longed, and said, Oh that one would give me drink of the water of the well of Bethlehem, which is by the gate!”
From verses 13-17 of this chapter we understand that David had an inner circle of three mighty men who had distinguished themselves by their heroic deeds of defending their country. Nor are we left in doubt as to their accomplishments.
In verse 8 we read of Adino the chief, who, against incredible odds, single-handedly slew eight hundred men at one time.
In verses 9 and 10 we read of Eliezer, who, in the thick of battle with the Philistines, showed great purpose of heart in that, though his compatriots had retreated, his hand, weary of battle, still clave to the sword. The Lord rewarded his zealousness with a great victory that day.
Finally, in verses 11 and 12 we read of the heroics of Shammah, who also stood firm in the face of a retreating Israelite army, and overcame a whole troop of Philistines. He seemed to have a double motive, for the place he defended was a field of lentils—a much needed source of food for a beleaguered army. Again the Lord rewarded this man's faithfulness by granting a great victory.
No doubt these three men heard the longing of David's heart as he thought of Bethlehem's well, whose waters had refreshed him in his boyhood days. Perhaps Shammah glanced at Adino, and Adino caught Eleazar's eye, and with raised eyebrows the same thought seemed to race through each mind: