During this period of lamentation and mourning for Saul and Jonathan, David says, “We need to teach the young people to be archers.” Why would he say this at that time? 1 Samuel 13 tells us that the Philistines had taken away all weapons and instruments of iron from the Israelites to ensure their own military advantage as they ruled the region. It would seem that it was Jonathan and Saul who introduced the bow and arrow to the people of Israel. The arrows would be tipped with stone, thus eliminating the need for iron.

The lesson for us is simple and practical. That is, if there’s been a loss in your life, a hurt in your heart, an ache in your soul, here’s the key: Get back in the battle. Wage war against the enemy. Serve the Lord with new intensity. Give Him more than you have ever given previously. If you don’t, you will remain in a state of depression and heaviness.

David showed great insight here. His call to arms would provide both a fitting commemoration of Saul and Jonathan, and needed restoration to the nation.