God Made
Today’s Verse:
And Asahel pursued after Abner; and in going he turned not to the right hand nor to the left from following Abner. ~2 Samuel 2:19
Whenever I purchase something, I look to see where it was made. Where it was made can sometimes determine the quality and durability of the product. Asahel’s name means “God-made” or “made by God.” Though he is lesser known, his life is a lesson on courage, conviction, and continuation. Let’s examine the kind of man Asahel was.
We see Asahel and his family.
Asahel was one of three brothers that served in David’s army. He had two older brothers, Joab and Abishai. He and his brothers were first cousins to David. They were known for their soldierly acts, devotion, and courage. It’s a good thing when members of a family are known for their commitment and service to the Lord. It’s a good thing when siblings are serving the Lord. Asahel and his brothers were men committed to the king’s service.
We see that Asahel was fast.
He is described as being “light of foot as a wild roe.” This is a way of saying that he was very fast and quick. Being able to run fast is a great asset in any athletic or military endeavor. Christians are told to be quick to hear and slow to speak. As soulwinners, we are to go out quickly and bring in the poor, the maimed, the halt, and the blind. We are to run with patience, looking unto Jesus, the Author and Finisher of our faith. We must be careful not to run without God and not to run ahead of God, but, instead, we must run with God. God-made people serve the Lord with haste and fervency.
We see that Asahel was fearless.
He pursued after Abner and did not turn to the left nor to the right. Asahel would not back down from any challenge. He stayed focused on his assignments. Abner tried to get him to stop pursuing him, but Asahel would not stop. Asahel was not easily intimidated. God-made people realize that the battles of life call for men who turn not to the left hand nor to the right. They are men who finish their assignments.
We see Asahel and his fatality.
Asahel’s pursuit of Abner led to his unfortunate death. Abner warned him to back off. Asahel would not stop. At the right moment, Abner took his spear and smote Asahel. You could say that Asahel was moving so fast that he did not see it coming. The spear pierced him and left him mortally wounded. On one hand, someone could say that he did not heed the warning and ran full-speed into his death. On the other hand, we must consider that he was fixed on fulfilling his duty and that he was willing to put his life on the line. God-made men are not afraid of sacrifices.
We see Asahel and his fame.
Asahel is mentioned as one of David’s mighty men. The very reference of his name among this elite group of soldiers speaks highly of his courage, convictions, and commitment. As mentioned earlier, his name means “God-made.” Only God can make men who stand up to giants, enemies larger than them, and elements that are ruthless. Only God can make a man exercise faith in Him. Only God can make a man who rises above his contemporaries. God made Asahel a man of might.
Asahel is a lesson for us on making an impact during our generation with our life. Asahel did all the talking through his testimony and not his mouth. Asahel was a man whom God used. Determine today to be someone who will impact his generation and live for God!
Have a faith-filled God Morning!
Bible Reading Schedule: Ezra 8-10