Last Words

The God of Israel said, the Rock of Israel spake to me,
He that ruleth over men must be just,
ruling in the fear of God…II Samuel 23:3

The last words that a person utters before death are often considered very significant. History records the last words of many famous men. Some words are inspiring or valiant, many more are simply trivial. These last words of King David are significant for two reasons. First, they are included in God’s Word, and therefore must be there for our learning. Secondly, David states that he is speaking with inspiration from God Himself.

David begins as he has lived his life, with the humble reminder that he is only the son of Jesse. His accomplishments are not that he was a great leader or general, not that he was King, but that God raised him up to a position with anointing. He looks back on the psalms he wrote in praise of God, not on his deeds as King. When he does talk about leadership, the first qualification is that the leader rule with the fear (respect) for God. Next, he warns his descendants that they must be faithful to God to retain the promised blessings.

David throughout his life encountered ungodly people, the sons of Belial. He describes them as thorns that cannot be pushed away with bare hands. The only way to overcome these influences is through iron (a symbol of strength) and a staff of a spear (the strength of lawful authority). This is not just the evil of ordinary people, but wickedness which is spiritual.

For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Ephesians 6:12-13