We Need The Mantle Of Issachar

The story of David becoming the rightful king, is a story that only God Himself could author. It is an adventurous journey filled with shepherding, giant slaying, and escaping the javelin of a jealous king Saul.

From the time that David was first anointed to be king by Samuel the prophet, and the time he actually took his rightful place on the throne, was 15 years of numerous battles, and attempts on his life. Why was there such a battle if he and all of Israel knew that God had called and anointed him to be king?

Doesn’t the rightful king just take the throne? Sometimes yes; but here the battle for the throne and leadership of a nation was at a very critical time in Israels history. Remember the people cried out for a king like every other nation? They no longer wanted the LORD to be their leader; they wanted to be like the rest of the nations; and the Lord let them pick their king….Saul from the tribe of Benjamin. It didn’t end well, and that is a whole other story!

The forces of evil continued to fight to keep the rightful king from his throne. During the years of Davids hiding from death threats, there was an entire army of valiant warriors that continued to be with him. They knew who their anointed king was, and there came a day to finally end all the adversity and chaos, and for the king to take his throne.

The details of Davids mighty army is very interesting. Beginning in verse 23 we read of all the tribes and the number of their men of valor. It is quite impressive! Each tribe had thousands….but when we reach the sons of Issachar; it says there were 200. What makes this so different from the rest of the warriors?

When you read this in full context you understand the significance of what is said. Yes, David needed many brave and courageous warriors to be in this battle. Wars are not fought without armed soldiers. However, it was the 200 sons of Issachar that had the spiritual discernment of what was happening, “and what Israel ought to do.”

We can have armies, and weapons galore; but without wisdom and discernment we will have chaos and needless loss of life. Issachar means- reward, may God show mercy, hired hand. God rewards and shows mercy to those who will be “hired” into the battle for understanding.

These 200 men had understanding of the times. How critical is it to understand what is taking place in a time of turmoil and chaos? To understand means- to have insight, discernment, good sense, wisdom, usually referring to the wisdom that responds to the Lord and His instruction. These were the spiritual prayer warriors!

It says they not only had understanding, but also “to know what Israel ought to do” To know means they recognized, were intimately aware, and perceived. You need skilled warriors, but without Holy Spirit warriors seeking godly wisdom and discernment, we lack His divine direction.

We also read that ALL the brethren of the 200 sons of Issachar were at their command. They willingly submitted themselves to these men. They trusted their instructions and directions. This is extremely critical in any battle or time of great transition. Having the trust of all these men speaks of their integrity and character.

We find ourselves at a critical tipping point in our nation. Do you recognize the times and season we are in? Are you seeing the battle for the rightful king? Or have your ears become dull of hearing, and your eyes blinded to the truth?

The battle is real! You may not see armed soldiers walking the streets (yet) but this battle is far more real then you realize. Remember that Gideon did not win the mighty battle against the huge army of Midianites with thousands of valiant warriors…but rather with what some would call “a ragtag band of men” The ragtag band were much like the sons of Issachar…they recognized the times and season they were in, and joined forces with the LORD to do battle!

The battle for America will not be won on a battlefield as in the past; it will be won with those who choose to put on the full armor of God, remain steadfast, pray always, and refuse to accept the lies and deception; but rather speaking the truth in love!

One final mention. When counting the warriors that surrounded David, beginning with the sons of Judah up to the sons of Issachar….they add up to 22,200. It then mentions the 22 captains of Issachar and their 200 men. A lot of two’s and now we are in 2022. Just some food for thought.