David and his men

"... The LORD is my protector; he is my strong fortress. My God is my protection, and with him I am safe. He protects me like a shield; he defends me and keeps me safe. He is my saviour; he protects me and saves me from violence.

I call to the LORD, and he saves me from my enemies. Praise the LORD!"

..."

~ 2 Samuel 22

David and his men fought and won many battles. But many of his men fell too.

What about those who died fighting alongside him? Did the LORD's protection not extend to them? They were also followers of the LORD, these men of David. Did the LORD not know them?

He did.

Their deaths were not in vain. His protection did not extend to their physical bodies in the battles. Despite their deaths, the LORD extended his protection over their families back home and their people.

They died for a purpose: to be the LORD's protection for his people.