In this daily Bible reading is the account of Absalom, King David’s son, striving to replace David as Israel’s king. Absalom had a large following and much support in Israel. David was forced to leave Jerusalem before Absalom took it by force.
As David was preparing to leave Jerusalem with his 600 followers, a foreigner named Ittai was determined to leave with David. David tried to discourage him, knowing that he could live in peace under Absalom. However, Ittai insisted on going with and serving David.
Such loyalty is rare, and it is this kind of loyalty that we must demonstrate to follow Jesus. Ittai was willing to take risks and whatever hardships came from following David. So, too, must we take risks and endure whatever hardships come from following Jesus.
