Unwavering Faithfulness - Uriah

Uriah replied, “The Ark and the armies of Israel and Judah are living in tents, and Joab and my master’s men are camping in the open fields. How could I go home to wine and dine and sleep with my wife? I swear that I would never do such a thing.”

2 Samuel 11:11

In one 1950s Looney Toons cartoon, Sylvester the Cat is befriended by a big, slow-witted tabby whose loyalty knows no bounds. However cruelly or condescendingly Sylvester treats his wannabe friend, his new companion doesn’t withdraw his friendship, loyalty, or protection.

It is admirable when a friend remains loyal and faithful even when treated shamefully. An Old Testament figure named Uriah the Hittite, one of King David’s mighty men, provides an example.

Uriah had no way of knowing that his master, King David, had already wronged him by seducing and impregnating his wife. David’s invitation for Uriah to stay home, take it easy, and spend the night with Bathsheba was just an attempt to cover David’s own appalling sin.

Uriah knew that he couldn’t in good conscience stay home with his wife while his men were fighting during the day and sleeping in tents at night. Uriah’s loyalty to David and his men cost him dearly because the guilt-ridden David hatched another plan to cover his sin and had Uriah killed in battle.

Uriah did his duty and demonstrated the godly traits of faithfulness and loyalty. His life honored King David and the men he fought alongside. His faithfulness and loyalty cost him his life on earth, but he continues to encourage us from his honored place in heaven to make faithfulness and loyalty high priorities.

God never promises that faithfulness and loyalty will be rewarded or even recognized in this life. Uriah encourages us to think beyond human history. We can cast our lot with the God who never fails to reward those who honor him. The people in your life need you to remain faithful and loyal to them, to God, and to his Word.