2Samuel 12:11 – 22:18
Overview
As we read about the life of David we read about the troubles he had with his family. Nathan, a prophet from God, tells David that there will be calamity in his family because of his sin with Bathsheba. He confesses his sin to God and he is pardoned. When the child that Uriah’s wife bore with David is born, David mourns until he hears of the death of the child as foretold by God through Nathan. Years later, Amnon son of David falls in love with David’s daughter Tamar (his half sister). When she resists, Amnon rapes her. Absolam, Davids son kills Amnon his half brother. David has more struggles as Absolom tries to steal the throne by gaining the confidence of the people and stealing their favor. Upon this news, David flees from Jerusalem thinking he has been ousted. He and his faithful followers mourn for Israel. Ziba, servant of Saul and now caring for Mephibosheth deceives David to obtain his masters inheritance. Absolom dies and David mourns. David regains his throne but not all of Israel follows so he goes to battle. David is to physically weak to fight anymore so he retires to his home and Joab and the others fight for him. Sheba is the ring leader that is instigating and dividing the nation. Joab seeks him out and he is killed. The Israelites fight and kill 4 giants of the philistines. Today’s reading concludes with David giving a psalm of thanksgiving and deliverance.
Scripture – 2Samuel 22:3-4
“The LORD is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer;
3 my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge,
my shield and the horn[b] of my salvation.
He is my stronghold, my refuge and my savior—
from violent people you save me.
Observation
David has just experienced some of the most turbulent times of his life. He has sinned greatly against the Lord. David confesses his sin to God and is then told by God that his family life will be filled with calamity. His child dies, one of his daughters is raped, a son is murdered and another son steals his throne. David flees in fear from his son as his world quickly falls in around him. During all of this, David holds fast to God and his promise that he will lead his nation and God will bless him. Even after all of these terrible things happen, David gives testimony by praising God and proclaiming God’s deliverance.
Application
David had fellowship with God. He sought God’s advice in times of crisis. Even after having many terrible things happen to him, David praises the Lord and gives credit to God to seeing him through his difficult times. We must remember to do the same. Deep waters will come to us and we must take refuge in our Lord and His promises found in His word. God is with us and will not forsake us. When God sees us through tough times, give praise to Him. When we are in the midst of these difficult times, hold close to God and take comfort in the fact that He is in control.
Prayer
Thank you Lord the testimony of David. Help me to hold close to you when my world seems to collapse around me. Thank you Lord that you are there with me and that I can take refuge in your promises.[/fusion_builder_column][/fusion_builder_row][/fusion_builder_container]
