Head Scratcher — Benaiah - Friday
Today’s Verse
1 Chronicles 11:25
He was more honored than the other members of the Thirty, though he was not one of the Three. And David made him captain of his bodyguard. (NLT)
Every Navy SEAL goes through “Hell Week”. Every Special Forces soldier endures Selection. Every Marine faces The Crucible—tests of endurance, grit, and mental toughness. It’s the proving ground that shapes them for the missions ahead.
David’s “Mighty Men” each went through their own versions, proving their mighty deeds weren’t just random acts of courage—they were preparation. These tests revealed their character.
Benaiah’s character shined bright as he was “more honored than the other members”. And King David wanted men like that around him, so he made him head of his royal bodyguard.
But remember, Benaiah didn’t go lion hunting. The fight found him.
You may feel like you’re in a fight you didn’t sign up for. You didn’t choose the diagnosis, the delay, the detour, or the season that feels like a dead end. But what if God is using this very challenge to form something in you? To forge your character. What if the battle you're in is actually preparing you for what's next?
God doesn’t always explain the process—but He doesn’t waste pain—He always uses it for a purpose.
Proverbs 28:1 says, “The wicked flee though no one pursues, but the righteous are as bold as a lion.” We live in a world that often prioritizes comfort, plays it safe, and avoids anything that feels risky or hard… But boldness? That’s rare. And that’s what God honors.
Many people will spend their whole lives avoiding lions—dodging difficulty, shrinking from pressure, running from anything uncertain, unpredictable, or uncomfortable. But not Benaiah—he chased the lion into the pit.
Too often, we live in retreat mode. But God calls us to advance, to confront injustice, love the unlovable, and serve when it’s hard. There will be risk—but you’ll never experience the fullness of God without courage.
REFLECTION
Instead of asking “Why me?” or “God get me out of this!” try asking “God, what do you want me to get out of this? What are you forming in me through this?” Trust that today’s battle may be building boldness and courage in you.
