Abishai was a biblical character during David's reign as King.

One time David got very tired when he and his soldiers were fighting the Philistines. One of the Philistine warriors was Ishbibenob, who was a descendant of the Rephaim, and he tried to kill David. Ishbibenob was armed with a new sword, and his bronze spearhead alone weighed seven and a half pounds. But Abishai came to the rescue and killed the Philistine. (2 Samuel 21:15-17 CEV)

Abishai was willing to do some of the dirty work. He was a key defender of David. His actions communicated teamwork and loyalty. He was even loyal to the point of being willing to kill the sleeping Saul — who was in pursuit of David and determined to end David's life. (1 Samuel 26:6-9)

That's how David felt about Abishai.

I believe all leaders need people around them who will play that key role. Leaders need others who can jump in, take the heat, lighten the load, and go to battle when leadership gets tough and dangerous. Every leader needs protection, rest, and renewal when weakened and exhausted by the grind of the leadership battle. I know I could have never been able to lead without an Abishai at my side or covering my back!

When I think of the phrase, "I've got your back," I think of these people who have been my Abishai's — unbelievable allies, without whom I can't imagine doing effective ministry. I wonder if that's how David felt about Abishai.

When I look at the people who are in "my corner" and those who "go to battle" with me in ministry, the thing they have in common is that they're not strangers. They've worked alongside me for years. (For me personally, I think of a special Abishai to me, named Don Davis, who has been a friend and ministry ally for over 22 years.) Others are part of the new ministry and support team I now work alongside — we share the day-to-day opportunities and challenges, together.

While you're serving with people ... believe in their gifts, value their contributions, do life with them, and give them access to your life. There will be occasions when you'll get to "test" their loyalty. You'll see how they respond when your back is against the wall and when you're exhausted. If they come through for you, thank them, point out specifics of how you felt honored that they would "stand with you" and thank God that you may have an Abishai on your team. You'll be a better leader when you go to "battle" with an Abishai.

 

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© 2005 Vann Conwell.

Title: "Every Leader Needs an Abishai"
Author: Vann Conwell
Publication Date: July 24, 2005

To Live Is Christ: Embracing the Passion of Paul by Beth Moore Tracing Paul's life from childhood to martyrdom, the book looks at how the apostle's life can give readers a renewed sense of purpose in God's plan.

Vann served for years as a youth minister with a special focus on mentoring new ministers. He is now the Connecting Minister for Southern Hills Church in Abilene. He loves to reach out to people that many folks neglect or forget and is a whiz at organizing and equipping others for ministry.

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