Martin Wickens

32 And of the children of Issachar, which were men that had understanding of the times, to know what Israel ought to do; the heads of them were two hundred; and all their brethren were at their commandment. 33 Of Zebulun, such as went forth to battle, expert in war, with all instruments of war, fifty thousand, which could keep rank: they were not of double heart.

1 Chronicles 12:33

In 1 Chronicles 12, all the tribes of Israel finally recognise David as their king. For 7 years David has ruled over Benjamin and Judah from Hebron, but the remaining 10 tribes had followed Saul’s son, Ishbosheth. But following his death, the 10 tribes sent elders to David to recognise him as their rightful king.

Verse 22 describes warriors arriving each day to serve and fight with David. His army grows to such a degree that in verse 23 they are compared to the host of God!

What kind of men are these? Time and again we read the description, “mighty men of valour”. Yet among this distinguished host, the men of Zebulun stand out. 

There are four descriptive phrases:

• Such as went forth for battle – Experienced, seasoned
• Expert in war – trained, prepared to use the weapons of war
• Could keep rank – disciplined
• Not of double heart – loyal

While some other tribes received one or two of these commendations, Zebulun received them all. What a band of brothers!

We need men like this in the church today. Not to fight with physical weapons, but to wage a spiritual warfare.

• We need experienced, seasoned, spiritual leaders.
• We need trained men, capable of welding all of God’s Word.
• We need disciplined men who stand side by side with others.
• We need loyal men who serve God with singleness of heart.