Multi-Faceted 2 Samuel 19

As we read through our passage today, many things have takenplace surrounding King David. In the previous chapter, his son Absalom was killed in battle. David mourns Absalom’s death and ignores his troop’s hard fought battle. Joab, one of David’s commanders rebukes David for slighting them. David relents and goes to encourage his troops. Later as David makes his return to Jerusalem, he is approached by Shemei, a man who cursed David two chapters previous. David forgives him. Next David is approached by Mephibosheth who is also asking for mercy because of an earlier incident involving the king. David is merciful. And finally, before crossing the Jordan, he is approached by Barzillai, A wealthy man who had helped David by providing for him while he was away from Jerusalem. David wanted to show Barzillai appreciation for the help he had provided by inviting him to stay with him and allow David to return the favor.

So, what do we see in all this, besides the fact that people in those days had names that were hard to pronounce? We see a multi-faceted display of a Godly king; a man whom God referred to as “A man after my own heart.” So what is so special about David’s life? First of all he was a human being. What I mean by that is even though Absalom wanted David dead, David still mourned his death. Regret? Perhaps, but regardless, we see a soft side in David’s reaction to his son’s death. Next we see approachability; Joab went before the king to inform him that the morale of the troops was down because of David’s actions. David was gracious; Even though what Shemei did was punishable by death, the king spared his life. WithMephibosheth, he showed compassion, forgiveness and fairness.Mephibosheth was not only from ex-king Saul’s family, he was crippled. No one in that day would have thought different of David if he simply allowed Saul’s kin to die. But not only did he take him in, he also spared him when there was a dispute.Finally he shows great appreciation for the service of Barzillai, a man who stood by him when he needed it most.

So what can we take away from all this? (Besides the fact that there was once a time when politicians were honest and fair?)David was a great role model for any of us today. How he handled these situations showed great self control and grit. Something we desperately need in our lives as followers of Christ. Many times it’s easy to read over these Old Testament stories and miss some amazing character traits in the lives of those who lived, But God chose the right people to tell his story; were they flawed? You bet! But we see proof that God uses the flawed to achieve his perfect will. (Yes, even you!)

Take some time today and ask God to give you that same kind of strength; ask him to make you into a multi-faceted masterpiece of love, grace and mercy.

Blessings,

Jimmy Garison, Family Care Pastor