One was the powerful and fearless leader of six hundred valiant warriors. The other was a helpless cripple, useless in battle. Never did a beleaguered, forsaken king have greater need for the strong to defend him. But he seems almost to reject the one who would have benefited him the most (“Wherefore goest thou also with us?”), while expressing keen sorrow in the loss of the cripple’s fellowship (“Wherefore wentest not thou with me?”).
Ittai (2 Sam. 15:19-23), whose name means “with me,” came from the same city as Goliath. What faith and love it must have taken for this Gentile to follow the one who had defeated his people’s champion—and especially to follow one so despised and rejected. No doubt David appreciated Ittai’s loyalty, but the path of rejection required love and reality. Would Ittai still faithfully follow David when he no longer reigned in glory and seemed to have little to offer?
Will we follow our Lord Jesus here where no worldly gain is attached to His Person? Christianity may be popular, but the Christ of Christianity is despised and rejected still. What a test of our faith!
Mephibosheth had nothing to offer David save his love and fellowship. In being fooled by his servant, he lost the opportunity to give David what the king’s heart most desired. It is not our mighty service but real, heartfelt love that gives His blessed heart comfort here where He is despised. Let us go with Him today, walking in His blessed company!
Ed.