(This post is Part 1 of a two-part devotional series on answering the King’s call to come closer.)
“And they all with one consent began to make excuse…” (Luke 14:18, KJV)
In our Sunday fellowship meeting, a brother shared a word about the story of Barzillai the Gileadite.
He spoke thoughtfully, reflecting on the scene from the vantage point of the king returning to his throne.
But as I was listening, the Lord showed me another shadow of truth. God’s truth is like a many-faceted diamond — each facet reflecting a different glimmer, a different layer of meaning for one subject, one story, or one situation.
This is one more facet of truth the Holy Spirit shared with me concerning Barzillai —
a truth that speaks not only of the king’s return, but of the personal call the King issues to every believer: the call to come closer.
Barzillai: A Faithful Friend to the Rejected King
When David fled from Absalom’s rebellion, many deserted him.
But Barzillai, an aged and wealthy man from Gilead, stood faithful.
He brought provisions for David and his men when they were hungry, tired, and vulnerable in the wilderness (2 Samuel 17:27–29).
Later, after David’s victory, the king warmly invited Barzillai to come and live with him in Jerusalem — to dwell with the king, honored in his court.
Barzillai’s response?
“I am this day fourscore years old: and can I discern between good and evil? Can thy servant taste what I eat or what I drink? Can I hear any more the voice of singing men and singing women? … Let thy servant turn back again, that I may die in mine own city…” (2 Samuel 19:35–37, KJV)
He respectfully declined, asking instead that David bless his servant Chimham.
Barzillai’s humility is moving. His loyalty to David is without question.
And yet — spiritually — his choice raises a searching question for us:
When the King calls us closer, will we make excuses?
The Shadows and Lessons from Barzillai’s Life
Barzillai beautifully pictures several important truths:
| Barzillai’s Action | Spiritual Shadow |
|---|---|
| Loyalty to David during rejection | Faithful believers standing with Christ now |
| Providing for the king’s needs | Ministering to Christ in His rejection |
| Humility in old age | Finishing well in faithfulness |
| Declining deeper fellowship | A warning not to excuse ourselves from intimacy with Christ |
| Passing on the blessing | The importance of discipling others |
When Christ Calls You Closer: No Excuses
There is a moment in every believer’s life when the Lord calls:
“Come closer.”
Not just to believe, but to abide.
Not just to visit, but to dwell.
It might come during a season of loss, or weakness, or exhaustion.
It might come when life feels “settled” and the prospect of disruption seems daunting.
We may be tempted, like Barzillai, to say:
- “I am too old.”
- “I am too tired.”
- “I cannot enjoy it fully.”
- “Let someone younger go instead.”
But the King’s invitation is not based on our strength, youth, or feelings.
It is based on His love — a love that desires our nearness, our fellowship, our hearts.
The true tragedy would be to miss the honor of abiding with Him more closely because of temporary excuses.
Jesus Himself warns:
“And they all with one consent began to make excuse… and the master of the house being angry said… none of those men which were bidden shall taste of my supper.” (Luke 14:18–24, KJV)
It is not anger in the sense of petty frustration, but righteous sorrow that those invited would forfeit their place of intimacy.
A Lesson for Our Sons and Daughters
When we excuse ourselves from deeper fellowship with Christ,
we are not only affecting our own lives —
we are shaping the way the next generation will view the King’s call.
If my son or daughter sees me hesitating, making excuses, or treating the King’s presence as optional, what will he think?
- Will he treasure the King’s invitation?
- Will he even hear the King’s voice clearly?
- Worse — will he start the journey and later turn aside, remembering his dad’s response to the King, thinking nearness is negotiable?
The call to draw near is personal —
but it echoes beyond us.
Our obedience today shapes our children’s view of God tomorrow..
Was Barzillai’s Humility Misplaced?
Barzillai’s humility was sincere.
He knew he was old and worn.
He had no desire for earthly honors.
But even sincere humility can sometimes lead to declining when God desires accepting.
True humility does not say,
- “I am unworthy, so I will stay away.”
True humility says,
- “I am unworthy — and yet He calls me. Therefore I will come.”
“Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace…” (Hebrews 4:16, KJV)
It is better to come limping into the King’s presence in weakness
than to stay behind in humility.
The King can handle our weakness.
He desires our nearness.
Word for the Overcomer
When the King calls, delay is deadly.
Overcomer, cast aside every excuse.
Rise up, cross the river, and dwell with your King.
His presence is your inheritance — don’t stay behind.