2 Samuel 19 -- It Was Time For David To Rule Again

With Absalom dead, it was time for David to return to Jerusalem again to rule.  The nation wondered what would become of those who'd supported Absalom in his rebellion.  My commentary highlighted five steps David took to bring about the healing of the nation.

He focused his perspective:  "Leaders must still lead, even if their hearts are broken; that's one of the prices that leaders must pay ... David the father forgot that he was also David the king ... until Joab's short but cutting speech ... and David took his place at the gate -- where his men came to him and where he acknowledged their brave service."

He began to strive for unity:  "He first started with the leaders of Judah, who agreed to cross the Jordan and bring him back into the country.  He then replaced Joab with Amasa as the general of his army.  Amasa had led Absalom's army, so everyone understood that David was doing something unique.

He declared a general amnesty:  "Those who'd fought against him no longer had to fear reprisal.  They were being accepted back into the good graces of the king and the rift between the tribes could heal.

He corrected an error:  "Mephibosheth, Jonathan's crippled son, came out to greet him and told him that his servant Ziba had lied -- Mephibosheth had never worked against David.  So David returned half of his land back to him.

He rewarded the faithful:  "Barzillai was a rich man who'd been faithful to David in Mahanaim while David was running away from Absalom.  David wanted to bring him back to the palace to care for him in his old age.  But Barzillai simply wanted to live out his life at home.  But he did ask David to let his son take his place, which David readily agreed to do.

My commentary made an important point:  "The one thing that's missing in the entire Absalom episode is David's seeking the mind of the Lord as he made decisions ... apart from his prayer in 15:31, we don't find David requesting guidance ... when it came to dealing with his sons, David needed all the help he could get, but perhaps he wouldn't admit it.  It's never too late for God to work."

Father, help me to succeed where David failed.  I do come to You regularly, interceding for my sons.  Change their hearts and lives, Father.  bring them back to You and lead them to become men after Your own heart!

Your Brother In Christ,
Gary Ford