The faithful among Israel who identified with David as God’s chosen king were steadily increasing in numbers. The term “David’s mighty men” refers to those faithful ones. We may apply that term to all true believers who identify with the Lord Jesus Christ, past or present. They do so despite the world’s rejection of Him, honoring Him as Lord. The term “mighty man” translates the Hebrew gibbor, strong man, which sometimes refers to the Lord Jesus in His humanity or deity (cf. Isa. 9:6).

During the days Saul persecuted him, an increasing number of faithful men publicly identified with David, even though they risked Saul’s wrath. However, after Saul died, a new phase began for David as several tribes sent delegations to Hebron in Judah. Mighty men of valor, designated by name, came to make him king (1 Chr. 12:30–31). Interestingly, of the sons of Issachar it is said that they understood “the times, to know what Israel ought to do” (v. 32). People from this tribe discerned the times, were ready to act, setting a good example for others to follow.

This is what the Lord expects from all believers, namely, to act according to what He shows us in His Word. The same passage mentions that “all their brethren were at their command” (v. 32). It shows unity in action linked to their understanding of the times. All started with a perfect heart, ready to honor David as king over all Israel (v. 38); this was followed by fellowship, “eating and drinking” (v. 39) of what “their brethren had prepared for them”; and the result was “joy in Israel” (v. 40).