Wednesday, November 29, 2017

Year 7, Day 333: 2 Samuel 16


Theological Commentary: Click Here



There is much to examine in this passage, but I am going to focus it all on one element of this story.  As David goes out, he is met by two people.  One person comes and gives David respite through wine, donkeys, and food.  Another comes out and curses David and throws stones.  What I love is David’s reaction to each of these.



As we would expect, David receives the servant who comes out to bless him.  In fact, David takes the land of the master and promises it to the servant because of his loyalty.  David looks in favor upon those who look upon him in favor, especially in his time of disgrace.  If you want to find out who your friends are, find the people who still want to be around you when your chips are down.  There are your true friends.



The other person that David meets is a member of Saul’s clan.  Naturally, this man comes out to curse David.  He throws stones.  He curses David.



What I love about this part of the story is that David accepts the critique.  I love his advice.  He tells the people around him that if it is God’s will for this man to curse him, then why resist it?  If it is not God’s will that this man curse him, then doesn’t it make sense that God will exact vengeance for David?



There is such wisdom found in both of these scenarios.  David looks upon those who gather around him when he is at his lowest.  He doesn’t resist those who come to kick him when he is lowest.  He puts his faith in God in both circumstances.



<><

No comments:

Post a Comment