I enjoy reading lists of names in the Bible. In the past, they seemed pointless to me. In fact, I would skim over them to get to the “meaty” stuff in the passage. One day, however, I realized that all those names were there for a reason. God had selected individuals and involved them by name in His Word. What an honor when your name was chosen for positive reasons!
David’s “mighty warriors” are listed in 2 Samuel 23. The first few have some description given about their heroic acts, but the bulk of the characters have only their names mentioned (2 Samuel 23:24-39). Even though their deeds aren’t described, we can infer that these men were also worthy of praise and renown. Some names are mentioned in the Bible as a means of presenting how not to behave, or as bywords for evil. But not these men. They were by no means flawless, but God chose them to be found in His Word and to be remembered forever.
Not all of us are going to be mighty warriors in a military sense. Most of us can’t in any way be described as men or women of renown. Thankfully, God looks at the heart (1 Samuel 16:7). He’s looking for people who are wholly devoted to Him—individuals who will wholeheartedly serve Him, no matter the cost. “The eyes of the LORD search the whole earth in order to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to him” (2 Chronicles 16:9).
Today, God still remembers those who decide, like David’s mighty men, to go to any length with whatever gifts He’s given them, to do their King’s will, and fulfill His purposes on earth. As I read lists of names in the Bible now, I pray that I’ll also one day have a name that is worthy of remembering—to God’s glory!
NLT 365-day reading plan passage for today: Genesis 40:1-23
More:
Scan the names found in Hebrews 11:4-32 and consider why God included them in His Word.
Next:
How has God equipped you to serve Him? If you don’t know, spend some time asking Him to show you. If you do know, how will you dedicate yourself to serving Him more fully?
Gary Shultz on January 23, 2015 at 5:59 am
As my Grandmother used to say “well bless your heart”. I think most know that a study of those dry portions will reveal buried treasure. God put them for a reason, they have a place in His Holy Word, what more can I say?
Tom Felten on January 23, 2015 at 9:06 am
So true, Gary. I’m reminded that behind each was a person whose life, character, struggles, accomplishments, etc., can be used by God to help us grow in our own faith. Bring on the random biblical names and the rich meaning that often comes with them!
poohpity on January 23, 2015 at 10:13 am
I am just so very grateful that my name is written in the best book ever the “Book of Life”. God knows my name!! That is all that is important to me.
rollingwoodfarm on January 23, 2015 at 10:15 am
I’m thankf that the Word says God is searching for those whose hearts are fully committed to Him. As we learn from David, our bodies don’t always do what our hearts are committed to do. Thank You, Jesus, for your grace and mercy. We receive your strengthening very day to be the people you have called us to be!
seeking777always on January 23, 2015 at 6:10 pm
Some of the best verses in the bible a written as one or two sentence descriptions. The prayer of Jabez is a good example of that. I always enjoy catching those little verses in my personal study times.
I have always been curious as to why specific names are mentioned as a posed to others. This is a great reminder for us as to why those names are listed in scripture.
Winn Collier on February 1, 2015 at 7:44 am
Scripture’s genealogies remind me of how very human our story is, immersed in the days and joys and tears of very real people.