V.1-7 Very interesting and instructive chapter. Many of the men who were faithful to David had been king Saul’s men, who had been so jealous of David. You and I once followed Satan, the enemy of our Lord. Now our hearts have been won by the love of Christ, and we follow Him.
V.2 The bow and arrow were the very things that killed king Saul (1 Sam. 31:3). Now these men are strong in these very same things, because they are with David (v. 18).
V.8-15 The sons of Gad were famous in the use of different weapons, shield and buckler. A beautiful verse tells us that the Lord is our shield and buckler (Psa. 91:44He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust: his truth shall be thy shield and buckler. (Psalm 91:4)). The shield was defensive, the buckler was a round shield but had a center rising out to a point. It was for attacking. Defensive and offensive. Every believer is equipped in a different way (Eph. 6:11-1711Put on the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. 12For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. 13Wherefore take unto you the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. 14Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; 15And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; 16Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. 17And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God: (Ephesians 6:11‑17)).
V.19-22 More turned to David.
V.23-40 A summary of David’s faithful men. Read these verses carefully. There is much to learn from them.
V.38 Notice what these men could do. It is good when believers can keep rank. They had ONE heart.
V.40 The result was “joy in Israel.” When there is faithfulness to Christ among the believers, we are going to be keeping rank (walking in harmony) and there surely will be joy in Him.