2 Samuel 19:36 – “Your servant will cross over the Jordan with the king for a little while, but why should the king reward me in this way?”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
In this verse, Barzillai responds to King David’s generous offer to stay with him in Jerusalem. Barzillai agrees to cross over the Jordan River with David briefly but declines the invitation to go further and live in the royal city. He humbly questions why David would reward him so generously, showing that he feels unworthy of such honor. Barzillai’s response is a testament to his humility and contentment, as he does not seek further recognition or reward, even after helping David during a difficult time.
Historical Context
Barzillai was an elderly and wealthy man who had supported David during Absalom’s rebellion by providing food and supplies to David and his men (2 Samuel 17:27-29). After Absalom’s defeat, David invited Barzillai to live with him in Jerusalem as a sign of gratitude. However, Barzillai was advanced in age, and instead of seeking more honor or comfort in his final years, he chose to stay in his own land. His journey with David to the Jordan River was a symbolic gesture of support and loyalty, but Barzillai recognized his limitations and preferred to return to his home.
Theological Implications
Barzillai’s humility and contentment offer a clear theological message: it’s not about seeking more honor or rewards but about faithfully serving where God has placed us. Barzillai’s reluctance to accept more reward from David reflects a heart of selflessness. This attitude mirrors the biblical teaching that our service to God and others should come from a place of genuine love, not for the sake of gaining recognition. The verse reminds us that God values a humble heart, one that is content with the blessings He has already provided and not constantly seeking more.
Literary Analysis
Barzillai’s words are filled with humility. His question, “Why should the king reward me in this way?” demonstrates his lack of self-importance. The phrase “cross over the Jordan with the king for a little while” suggests that Barzillai was willing to continue showing loyalty to David but was realistic about his limitations due to his age. The Jordan River serves as a symbolic boundary, marking the end of one chapter for David and the beginning of his return to Jerusalem as king. Barzillai’s decision to accompany David only partway highlights his awareness of his role and the limitations of his physical condition.
Biblical Cross-References
Barzillai’s humility is reminiscent of other biblical figures who served faithfully without seeking personal gain. In Luke 17:10, Jesus teaches that after doing everything we are commanded, we should still say, “We are unworthy servants; we have only done our duty.” Like Barzillai, who questioned why he should be rewarded, Christians are called to serve without expectation of reward, trusting that God will honor faithful service in His way and time. Additionally, in Philippians 2:3, Paul urges believers to “do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves,” which aligns with Barzillai’s humble heart.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For today’s Christian, Barzillai’s attitude encourages us to serve God and others with humility, without seeking recognition or rewards. His willingness to accompany David but not accept further honors shows that he was content with simply fulfilling his role. Christians today are reminded that true service is about faithfulness, not about what we can gain in return. Barzillai’s humility teaches us the importance of recognizing our limitations and being content with the life and blessings God has given us, rather than constantly seeking more.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
This verse reflects God’s love in the way He honors those who serve Him faithfully, even when they do not seek recognition. Barzillai’s humble heart and contentment show that God values our service, not based on how much we accomplish, but based on the attitude of our heart. God loves those who serve with humility and grace, and He delights in blessing those who put others above themselves. Barzillai’s loyalty and humility reflect the kind of love that God desires from His people—a love that is not driven by the need for reward but by a genuine desire to serve.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Barzillai’s humility and selflessness point to the ultimate example of humility in Jesus Christ. Jesus, though He was the Son of God, humbled Himself to serve others and did not seek earthly rewards or recognition. In Philippians 2:5-8, Paul describes how Jesus “made himself nothing” and took on the nature of a servant, even to the point of death on a cross. Barzillai’s humble service to David is a reflection of the kind of servant leadership that Jesus embodied. Just as Barzillai was content with his position, Jesus calls His followers to live lives of humility, focusing on serving others rather than seeking personal glory.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does Barzillai’s humility and contentment challenge your own attitudes toward recognition and reward in service?
- In what ways can you practice serving others without expecting anything in return, like Barzillai did for David?
- How does Barzillai’s decision to stay in his own land reflect wisdom in knowing his limitations? How can you apply this in your own life?
- How does Jesus’ example of humility and servant leadership inspire you to serve others more selflessly?
- What can you learn from Barzillai’s response to David about being content with the blessings God has already given you, rather than constantly seeking more?