"All these men of war . . . came with a perfect heart to Hebron, to make David king over all Israel: and all the rest also of Israel were of one heart to make David king" (I Chronicles 12:38).

After the death of King Saul, David reigned over only one tribe, Judah, for seven and one-half years. Finally, the other eleven tribes were of one heart to unite with David, making him king over all twelve. This united kingdom would last through the reigns of David and Solomon.

Our text speaks of "men of war" who came to David to make him king. These individuals had certain physical characteristics that can be spiritually applied to believers today.

1. They were "ready armed" (12:23). Paul exhorts believers to "Put on the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil," and, "take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day" (Ephesians 6:11,13).

2. They had "Understanding of the times, to know what [they] ought to do" (I Chronicles 12:32). The world's understanding is "darkened" (Ephesians 4:18); but the believer's understanding should be "being enlightened" (Ephesians 1:18). Then, through the Holy Spirit's guidance, the child of God will be enabled to know what to do.

3. They "Could keep rank: they were not of double heart" (I Chronicles 12:33). James mentions that "a double minded man is unstable in all his ways" (1:8). Many local churches have seen much contention, grief, and division because of double-mindedness, because of individuals who could not keep rank. Paul's admonition concerning this problem is, "Be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind. Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory" (Philippians 2:2-3). Only those who are one with the Lord will be one with each other. NPS