President Harry Truman was once asked to speak at a fund-raising project to help the children of a White House guard who was slain in the line of duty. With great emotion he said, “You can’t imagine just how a man feels when someone else dies for him.”

David must have had a similar experience in response to his three mighty warriors. When he expressed a longing for a drink from the well of Bethlehem, Adino, Eleazar, and Shammah voluntarily broke through the Philistine camp and got it for him. They were so devoted to their leader that they risked their lives to fulfill his wish. Their courage so moved David that he would not wet his tongue with one drop of that precious liquid. Instead, he poured it out as an offering to the Lord, saying, “Is this not the blood of the men who went in jeopardy of their lives?” (2 Samuel 23:17). Their act was as noble as if they had died for him.

Most nations set aside a day to remember those who have fought in their wars, especially those who have sacrificed their lives to defend freedom. They deserve to be honored and respected.

Thank God for veterans and for their families. And let’s ask Him to help us reinforce our liberties with personal righteousness and prayer for our leaders.  —DJD