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.