David Returns to Jerusalem

Stephen Olford is without question one of the great Preachers of the World: Son of a missionary to Africa. Did not want to go through the trials and tribulations of a missionary. Was mistreated by Christians in England and rebelled against God. Studied to become an engineer. Deve … More

Weeping

Joab is told of David’s “weeping” and “mourning” for his son Absalom (vv. 1-2). Instead of majoring on their triumph as an occasion for celebration the people sneak back into the city because cowardice has forced them to flee the battlefield (v. 3). Meanwhile David, with his face covered continues to cry aloud in mourning for his dead son (v. 4). While this is going on Joab comes into the house of the king and accuses David of trading Absalom’s life for those of everyone else by discouraging them (v. 5). Joab’s complaint is that David loves those who hate him and hates those that love him (v. 6). Joab has received the clear impression that the “commanders” and their men mean nothing at all to the king. David says that if the king does not immediately go out and “encourage” his men, no one will remain loyal to him (v. 7). Reluctantly, the king is prodded by Joab’s harsh words to go and sit at the gate (v. 8).

Some people reminded the Israelites that David, despite his flaws rescued them from their enemies, the Philistines, but he is still outside the country (v. 9). They then ask, why do our fellow Israelites “say nothing” about returning David to his rightful place on the throne in Jerusalem (v. 10)? So David sends the priests to ask the elders to bring him back to his own house in Jerusalem (vv.11-12). David now promises to make Amasa the commander of the army in place of Joab (v. 13). Soon the tribe of Judah again become the followers of David, and they ask David to come back and bring his soldiers with him (v. 14).  

Application

When is the last time I have wept over people who are lost? (Psa. 126:6) Lord give me compassion!

II Samuel 19:1-15 (English Standard Version)


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