Who is the armor bearer?
An armor-bearer’s most obvious responsibility, as suggested by the title, is helping a warrior carry their weapons into a battle. The Greek word is ar'-mer-bar'-er (nose' keli; Greek uses a phrase, ho airon ta skeue, literally "the one carrying the armor").
In our Bibles we can see many references to the “Armor-Bearer” as one who carried the large shield and perhaps other weapons for a king (1 Samuel 31:4), commander-in-chief (2 Samuel 23:37), captain (1 Samuel 14:7), or champion (1 Samuel 17:7). All warriors of distinction had such an attendant. Rather than perish by the hand of a woman, Abimelech called upon his armor bearer to give him the finishing stroke (Judges 9:54), and when King Saul's armor bearer refused to do this office for him that he might not become the prisoner of the Philistines, he took a sword himself and fell upon it (1 Samuel 31:4). David became Saul's armor bearer for a time, and Jonathan's armor-bearer was a man of resource and courage (1 Samuel 14:7). The shield-bearer was a figure well known in the chariots of Egypt and Assyria and the Hittites; his business being to protect his fighting companion during the engagement.
Qualities of an Armor Bearer
- Being a Watchman
Armor-bearers in biblical times were expected to be aware of the probable dangers and problems that may occur. They stayed alert and kept guard in the face of likely dangers. So, when a bearer senses any problem, he needs to inform and consult with their leader and act accordingly. - Total Loyalty & Confidence
On many occasions, the bearers would be led into dangerous situations by their leader. They would need to show unwavering trust in the leader and their decisions. Ready at any moment to stand by their side and endure what is to come. - Displaying Perseverance
An armor-bearer’s job requires a long-term and steadfast commitment on the part of both the bearer and the leader. The tasks of armor-bearers was demanding. The armor-bearer was dedicated to making sure the leader's weaponry was ready at all times and in peak working condition. Sometimes, the armor-bearers need to travel alongside and long distances with their leaders to help them in other parts of service.
The Modern Day Armor Bearer
What modern-day application does the armor-bearer have today in the church or our Christian walk? As Christians, we should be looking to surround ourselves with armor-bearers and in turn, be an armor-bearer for others.
An armor-bearer is one who can consistently, and willingly be an aid to his or her fellow Christians. This is someone who should be spiritually and emotionally mature. In order to be an effective armor-bearer, one should not be a babe in the faith but must have a firm biblical foundation. An armor-bearer is someone who doesn’t need to be the center of attention and self-glorification shouldn’t be the motivating factor as to why one is serving. Your love for God and for your fellow brethren will keep one committed to the assignment and humble. Your love for God will help you stay focused on the work at hand.
What is an armor bearer's responsibilities?
You may ask, “What are my responsibilities and how do I fulfill them?” It is important to be aware that we all should possess the spirit of an armor-bearer and the different roles and responsibilities.
- Be Available
Build relationships with your brothers and sisters in Christ and be aware of others’ needs. Be willing to take the focus off you and search to service others. Being an armor-bearer to others is not to be taken lightly, this role will take your time, energy and can be emotionally taxing. You must understand the level of commitment that is required and follow through on your commitment. - Be in Position
Being in position is more than just showing up. It entails being present spiritually, mentally, and emotionally. You must show up alert, spiritually in tune, emotionally stable, and intact. - Be Willing
Your willingness to serve goes a long way. There are people in various roles, but their heart is not willing and their attitude reflects it. Skill is great but when service comes out of a begrudging (resenting having to serve) heart it taints the gift even when coming from the most skillful (2 Corinthians 8:10-12). - Understand & Respect Boundaries
Relationships must be established; this will take time... sometimes months or years to build the trust that is needed to be an armor-bearer. Trust comes with experience and proving yourself. The heart of a servant is patient and longsuffering. - Be Sensitive to the Needs of Others
As stated, take the focus off me and search where you can serve others. It takes time to build trust. - Be Approachable
(Romans 12:3) - be kind, friendly, and not judgmental towards others. Wear a smile and have a genuine interest in others. People will know, if you are not sincere. - Be Honest
As an armor-bearer, it’s imperative to give honest and accurate counsel about what you see and know. Inaccurate information/ council can lead to spiritual harm or death. When you take that role, you’re telling others you will be upfront and honest about the situation. - Prayer Warrior
Prayer warriors are submitted to the Lord. They may have their own opinions, goals, and desires, but they are willing to set those down when it is a matter of obedience to the Lord. They are quick to pray when prayers are needed. Prayer is one of the most powerful tools/weapons of the armor-bearer.
Who is your armor bearer?
Who walks onto the front lines of the battle with you, as you lead yourself and your family in your spiritual walk? In turn, who are you an armor-bearer for in their spiritual walk? Who are you a prayer warrior for? Who are you a watching out for, encouraging, and giving guidance to? The role of armor-bearer is not for the weak-hearted, the selfish, or the disinterested. It takes a special someone who is committed to the Lord first and then their fellow brethren.
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