"Blessing or Bayonet?" by Kirk Hunt

And Jonathan Saul's son arose, and went to David into the wood, and strengthened his hand in God. (1 Samuel 23:16 KJV)

Please also read 1 Samuel 23: 14–18

It's hard to imagine a more difficult circumstance. The king, David's father-in-law, has issued a death warrant against him. David's brothers and parents joined him as homeless fugitives. Not even a forest wilderness seemed a safe enough place to hide.

Somehow, Jonathan found David. In the silence, just before he spoke, a choice was made. Would there be a blessing, or a bayonet, in the words?

Everyone eventually lives through hard and harsh times. Saints and sinners all eventually become wounded or weary in this life. Will you bless, or bayonet, that wounded soul?

David gained strength from Jonathan's visit. Encouragement and hope were poured out on a man in his darkest hour. God's love reached David through Jonathan's life.

Are you a minister, or monster, to those around you? Correction can be delivered with kindness and grace. Compassion can turn a rebuke into an affirmation.

Find a way to help, not hurt. Choose the words that give lift and life. Be God's love and healing to that wounded soul.

Think: My words will either bless, or bayonet, those who are hurting.

Pray: “Lord, help me to always encourage the hurting, so that they can feel Your love.”

Copyright © December 2007, Kirk Hunt