Men of Valor: Jephthah

by David Chadwick

The book of Judges is a story of the rise and fall of Israel. Over and over again, they would disobey God, worship false idols, then fall into the hands of a foreign, oppressive enemy. They would then cry out to God for help and he would raise up a judge to deliver them and establish order once again. People like Gideon, Samson and Deborah took their place in God’s story to recalibrate the nation after chaos, delivering God’s people from evil.

Judges 11 tells the story of Jephthah, another judge over Israel and our next man of valor. In this chapter, the Israelites were becoming overwhelmed by the Ammonites, a very strong nation. Jephthah is described in Judges 11:1 as “a mighty man of valor.” He became Israel’s leader and rallied the Israelites to fight against the Ammonites. Through his leadership, they ultimately became free!

My favorite part about Jephthah’s story is that he was the son of Gilead, but his mother was a prostitute, which should remind all of us that we serve a God who can take anyone’s background and turn things around.

The book of Deuteronomy talks about the impact that sin can have on generations to come. But Jephthah shows us that even if our parents made grave errors, we can reverse the curse. We do not have to live in their mistakes or under their bondage.

Our God is a chain-breaking, miracle-working God. He specializes in redeeming hopeless situations, restoring broken moments, and reestablishing order out of chaos.

Today, choose to be a Jephthah! Change what has been done to you and chart a different course for your life. Don’t be a victim. You don’t have to remain the same.

And, who knows? Maybe God has called you not just to be a mighty warrior within your personal story, but to change the lives of those around you!

Men of Valor: King David

by David Chadwick

King David was described as “a man of valor and a man of war” in 1 Samuel 16:18. Take note that David is referred to as a man of valor even when was still a young boy, much like we saw yesterday with Zadok. It’s no wonder he went on to take on a bear and a lion when he was a mere shepherd boy. He developed valor as a young man in the pastures so he could lead in valor in the palace.

Think for just a moment. Where is God developing you right now? What are the “pastures” in your life where you are training and developing yourself for future battles? Places that seem hidden from the public eye, but places you need to govern before God gives you more influence. God is always giving us opportunities to build character and to strengthen ourselves. Like any good father, he disciplines those he loves (Hebrews 12:6).

Was David’s valor what led him to fight the nine foot giant named Goliath? David didn’t think twice about running straight TOWARD the giant in battle. David had no fear! I would certainly think his patterns of valor encouraged his courage in battle.

David is described in the Bible as a man after God’s own heart (1 Samuel 13:14). But I would argue he was also a warrior after God’s own heart as well. He spent the majority of his life fighting and battling for righteousness, purity, holiness, and victory, even in spite of his many challenges, sins, iniquities, and setbacks.

Think about this for a moment. Even after committing adultery with Bathsheba, having her husband killed, and then lying to cover it up, he entered into deep and remorseful repentance, showing his deep love for God.

Let this be an example that summons all young men, especially, wherever you may be, to seek to become men of valor. You are never too young to be used by God and to cultivate a life of valor. You, too, can run toward the giants and slay Goliaths in your own spheres of influence.

Men of Valor: Zadok

by David Chadwick

Zadok is today’s man of valor. 1 Chronicles 12:28 describes him as “a young man mighty in valor,” who had 22 commanders under him that were from his father’s house.

Just from this verse alone, we can see that Zadok was esteemed within his family and given leadership on a greater scale because of his faithfulness. He clearly must have been a very well respected and highly skilled warrior.

Two particular things strike me about the story of Zadok.

First, he was a man of great courage, but also skilled. You can have all the courage in the world, but lack discipline and practical skills and you will be highly ineffective. I can think of many examples of people who are willing to run into battle, but have not become skillfully trained in using their sword. In their lack of skill, they become highly dangerous in battle!

A skilled warrior must know when to fight, when to be still, when to strategize, and when to take action. It is imperative that you learn how to be skilled in your valor. Be discerning. Be wise. Learn the art of discretion. It could be a matter of life or death.

Secondly, Zadok was a “young man.” Yet he commanded others, perhaps as many as 22 other soldiers. I would suppose that many of these soldiers may have been older, even stronger than Zadok. I immediately think of Paul telling Timothy not to be despised because of his youth. Just because someone might be younger does not mean that he can’t be given positions of leadership in battle. As God told David, man looks at the outward appearance, but God is always looking at the heart (1 Samuel 16:7).

This lesser-known, yet valorous warrior named Zadok was a crucial part of conquering the Promised Land for God’s people. That land was needed later for the birth of our Savior and Lord, Jesus.

Valor is a theme for all believers. Young and old. Men and women. All races. All nations. Anyone can choose to learn to be a person of valor. God can and will use you mightily! Stand firm! Be strong and courageous!

Jesus needs you in his army.