Tuesday, May 5, 2009

Brother Barzillai

Devotional by Evangelist Tim Green

II Samuel 19:32, 35
Now Barzillai was a very aged man, even fourscore years old: and he had provided the king of sustenance while he lay at Mahanaim; for he was a very great man. ... I am this day fourscore years old: and can I discern between good and evil? can thy servant taste what I eat or what I drink? can I hear any more the voice of singing men and singing women? wherefore then should thy servant be yet a burden unto my lord the king?

Brother Barzillai is a wonderful man mentioned briefly in the Bible. The aged saint ministered to King David and stayed loyal to him throughout David's absence from the throne. Brother Barzillai also recognizes his frailty and limited future and desires to help another (v. 37). This helpful consideration was a lifestyle and pattern for this senior saint.

Sometimes, if not careful, younger folk take for granted or overlook the older folk about us. To look at one's wrinkles and not realize that they are roadmaps of righteousness is foolishness. The faltering step is really the walk of faith patiently following our dear Lord. The dimness of eye is diminished interest in the sorry sights of this old world. Their weakened strength is the disguise that teaches the truth that "all flesh is as grass."

God help us to realize the immense value of those among us who have reached a superior age and also recognize that if God tarries and our health holds up, one day, and that all too soon, we shall be the Barzillais at our churches or in our families.

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