A Full Share

Never underestimate the Bible. We find truth and wisdom on every page. I was reminded of this recently in talking about the aftermath of a battle that David had with the Amalekites. In this battle there was a group of soldiers that did not go out to the front line, but rather stayed behind with the baggage. Following the battle, those who went to the front line wanted a larger share of the spoils than those who stayed behind. But David was having none of it. Listen to what he says,

“For as his share is who goes down into the battle, so shall his share be who stays by the baggage. They shall share alike.” And he made it a statute and a rule for Israel from that day forward to this day (1 Samuel 30:24–25.)

What an encouragement that there are no little roles, and by extension no little people in the kingdom of God. Those who stay with the baggage receive the same share as those on the front line. There are so many roles in the service of the kingdom. Some we see regularly, those who preach, teach, or lead music. Others labor in obscurity; back in the hallways of the nursery, or tucked away in an office paying bills and balancing budgets. Some personalities stand out, while others prefer to operate in the shadows. But all are judged equally in the kingdom of our God.

So what role are you carrying out for the kingdom? It may be your time and place to shine, smack dab in the middle of the front line. Terrific! Those roles are needed. On the other hand your station in life, gifts or personality may have you tucked away; a necessary support role for the active mission of Christ. Know this, in the Lord’s army all receive a full share.