| “Jonathan said to the attendant who carried his weapons, ‘Come on, let’s cross over to the garrison of these uncircumcised men. Perhaps the Lord will help us. Nothing can keep the Lord from saving, whether by many or by few. His armor-bearer responded, ‘Do what is in your heart. You choose. I’m right here with you whatever you decide.'” (I Samuel 14:6-7)
“‘Follow me,’ Jonathan told his armor-bearer, ‘for the Lord has handed them over to Israel.’ Jonathan went up using his hands and feet, with his armor-bearer behind him. Jonathan cut them down, and his armor-bearer followed and finished them off.” (14:12b-13)
The office of an armor-bearer is a huge and honorable assignment. All leaders need a spiritual armor-bearer. The armor-bearer follows and believes in the leader and his vision. Right, wrong or indifferent an armor-bearer supports his leader, knowing God can even use their mistakes for growth. (Disclaimer: Not saying you should do anything immoral, unethical or illegal for another person. Only saying that once you express your concerns or perceptions, you can choose to support them even if their idea seems like a mistake in your opinion.) An armor-bearer carries the weight of the leader’s weapons. He ensures his leader’s weapons are in order and ready to go when needed. His leader is prepared for war because he has taken care of everything. He provides relief so his leader can strategize and direct. An armor-bearer doesn’t draw off of the leader’s energy, he encourages and strengthens him. The armor-bearer backs up his leader in the fight, he helps to round out vision by finishing what his leader starts.
The leader and armor-bearer move like a well-oiled machine. A true armor-bearer is humble; he’s not threatened by the limelight his leader is in. He has no desire to be in his leader’s shoes, only to do his best to complement his gifts. It is a true partnership that enables two people to fulfill their purpose fluidly and efficiently.
PRAYER:
Lord, I thank You for opportunities to be on both sides. I pray that whether I am a leader or an armor-bearer that I will do my assignment with joy and peace. Give me vision and wisdom, lead me Lord to the path You have for me. Keep my heart humble. In the name of Jesus I pray, amen. |
