The Importance of Last Words
Now these are the last words of David. Thus says David the son of Jesse; thus says the man raised up on high, the anointed of the God of Jacob, and the sweet psalmist of Israel. - 2 Samuel 23:1
As I read these words––they blew my mind! Imagine, each and every one of us, could place our name right there, in this first sentence. David, spoke his last words, wanting everyone to know that it was God who had taken him from being a young shepherd boy, a position of humility and raised him up to be the king of Israel. The God of Jacob had anointed David; the Lord, through the chosen lineage of Israel, over who David reigned (Isaiah 44:1).
Interestingly, within his last words David, the man of war, referred to himself as the sweet psalmist of Israel––he would be remembered, even today, for the many Psalms he penned. His people loved him and David tells us, His God delighted in him: He also brought me out into a broad place; He delivered me because He delighted in me (Psalm 18:19).
Have you heard anyone’s last words? Pastors have the privilege to visit people who are in the hospital––who are about to die. If the person is a believer, they are able to listen to their important last words. I have found that these last words not only come from their lips but from their hearts.
Imagine, there is an appointed time for us to die; it is already known and written by God: And as it is appointed for men to die once, but after this the judgment (Hebrews 9:27). If it is not an instant death, then we shall have the opportunity to share our last words with our loved ones and friends, who have gathered around our bedside to hear us. What do you think your last words would be to them?
Precious in the sight of the Lord
is the death of His saints.
~ Psalm 116:15~
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