We’re hard-wired to glorify the solo hero. Whether it’s Zorro single-handedly rescuing his down-trodden community or John McClane terrorizing the terrorists by himself in Die Hard, we seem to be drawn to the Lone Ranger figures.
In the real world, though, it takes a team of heroes to accomplish anything of lasting value.
When you first read the story of King David in the Old Testament, you might think his story is another Lone Ranger story. David so dominates the Old Testament landscape that you might not immediately notice all the human help he received. That’s why 2 Samuel 23 is so important. As the writer of 2 Samuel drew his story of King David to a close, he celebrated David’s posse. That is, he highlighted the “Mighty Men” who made David’s success possible. When I read through the brief stories of David’s posse, I find some characteristics to honor in others -- and to develop in myself. These guys were brave when others ran away; they stood their ground no matter how exhausting the conflict; they were willing to sacrifice for the good of the community. Such characteristics helped David win his earthly battles.
Just as these men aided David in his physical battles, you need friends to help you in your spiritual battles. Life is spiritual struggle. We fight against our own rebellious internal inclinations, and we fight against a spiritual opponent who hates us precisely because God loves us. You need a posse for that kind of fight.
This Sunday, I’m going to highlight six characteristics of those who can help you win in life’s battles. It’s the third and final study in our series called “Friends for Life.” If you missed the last two sermons or want to review them, you can find them by clicking here.
So, come this Sunday and let’s learn what kind of friends we need to have and what kind of friends we need to be! We’ll begin our worship service online and on campus at 10am.
--Tom
Tom Goodman serves as pastor at Hillcrest Church in Austin, Texas. His sermons are available on YouTube and the HillcrestToGo Podcast and you can find him on Facebook and Twitter. If someone forwarded this email newsletter to you, sign up here to receive Tom’s weekly devotional in your email inbox.