THE LION, THE PIT, AND THE PROMOTION PART 1: THE MAN BEHIND THE EXPLOITS

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THE LION, THE PIT, AND THE PROMOTION PART 1: THE MAN BEHIND THE EXPLOITS   2 Samuel 23:20–23 (NKJV) "Benaiah was the son of Jehoiada, the son of a valiant man from Kabzeel, who had done many deeds. He had killed two lion-like heroes of Moab. He also had gone down and killed a lion in the midst of a pit on a snowy day."   Some people become known for their positions, while others become recognised for their exploits. In the Bible, Benaiah was one man whose courage and extraordinary deeds distinguished him among David's mighty warriors. His story is fascinating, but before we examine the lion, the pit, and his eventual promotion, let's first understand the man behind these remarkable achievements. 1. A MAN WITH A BACKGROUND Benaiah was the son of Jehoiada, a valiant man from Kabzeel. He was not an ordinary warrior. Scripture records several extraordinary victories that distinguished him among David's mighty men. His background introduces us to a family ass...
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PART 14: BUILT TO LAST: SURVIVING FOR THE SAKE OF OTHERS.

PART 14: BUILT TO LAST: SURVIVING  FOR THE SAKE OF OTHERS.


Hebrews 12:2

“For the joy set before Him, He endured the cross.” 

Welcome to this new journey—“Built to Last: Surviving for the Sake of Others.” Though we brought “Taking the Civilian Out of You” to its Final Lap, the story within me wouldn't stay silent. Why? Because I began to reflect on something deeply personal: what if Charles hadn’t survived? What if Conrad had given up halfway?

You see, their survival wasn't just for them. It became a bridge for me. Their endurance through hardship became a source of wisdom, encouragement, and provision—physically, spiritually, emotionally, and even financially. Their survival became my breakthrough.


And then it hit me—this is Kingdom.

“No one lives to himself alone, and no one dies to himself alone.” —Romans 14:7 (NIV)

Your survival matters—not just for your sake, but for someone else's future.


Think of Paul the Apostle—shipwrecked, beaten, imprisoned, but he endured. Why?

“So that the grace that is reaching more and more people may cause thanksgiving to overflow to the glory of God.” —2 Corinthians 4:15

His survival birthed churches, trained leaders, and wrote letters that still strengthen us today.


Think of Jesus in Gethsemane, sweating blood yet choosing to endure the cross.

“For the joy set before Him, He endured the cross.” —Hebrews 12:2

That joy was you. Me. Us. Our salvation hinged on His endurance.


So now, this isn’t just about discipline or training.

This is about legacy.

This is about holding on when quitting looks easier.

Because your ability to survive this season may be the lifeline someone else needs tomorrow.


You’re not just a soldier anymore.

You’re a warrior. A carrier of grace. A vessel of hope. Built to last.


So, this new leg of our journey isn’t just about finishing strong.

It’s about lasting long—for others.

You're not just being trained anymore.

You're being trusted.

Not just a soldier. You are now a warrior. A vessel of survival. A symbol of endurance. Built to last.



REFLECTION:

Who has your endurance helped without your knowledge?

Think of those whose strength encouraged you when you were weak.

Now realize: you’re that person to someone else.



Journal three people whose survival blessed you. Reach out to one of them and say thank you.


Begin praying for the unseen people who are tied to your journey.


Declare daily this week: “I am built to last—for the sake of others.”



PRAYER:

Lord, thank You for those who endured so I could be strengthened. Thank You for the silent warriors whose survival birthed my growth. Now, I ask You for grace to stand strong—for those whose stories are connected to mine. Help me to remember that I am not living just for myself. Strengthen my resolve, deepen my endurance, and make me a vessel of hope. In Jesus’ name, amen.


Next Part: Part 15 – The Pain, The Price, The People

In Part 15, with fresh eyes—we’ll look at survival not just as endurance, but as prophecy. The survival of today is the testimony of tomorrow. Let’s finish this strong.



📌Let’s Talk:

Who paid a price so that you could become who you are today?

Are you currently paying a price for others?

What sacrifices are you being called to make—and who could be blessed through them?

Let’s reflect and grow together. 

Thank you!




Prince Julius Nenebi-Darkson

(EL-PJ God’s Penman)





Comments

  1. Esi12 May 2025 at 07:21

    Your endurance and survival doesn't only benefit you. It becomes a source of strength for others.

    ReplyDelete

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