Dave's Diary

Daily Readings: 2 Samuel 2 and Psalm 79

We will read these early chapters of 2 Samuel with the desire to learn something for our own discipleship in the Kingdom of our King Jesus. That will be tough, because they read more like the sort of contemporary entertainment that glorifies violence and bloodshed. David’s supporters on the one hand, and those propping up the previous royal family in the person of Ishbosheth on the other, see violent conflict as the means to their ends. Even the author of 2 Samuel seems to take quite a delight in the gory details.

Tucked away in chapter 2:4-6, however, is this inspiring gem: “When David was told that it was the men from Jabesh Gilead who had buried Saul, he sent messengers to them to say to them, ‘The Lord bless you for showing this kindness to Saul your master by burying him. May the Lord now show you kindness and faithfulness, and I too will show you the same favour because you have done this.” In a completely counter-cultural move, David continues to show honour to his defeated enemy. Instead of destroying those who had risked their lives to honour Saul and his family by giving them a proper burial, David blessed them. And his words become a source of inspiration to us.

How different would our world be if we treated others with the kindness and faithfulness of God, rather than with hostility. Against the contrast of all the hostility and bloodshed of this chapter, the light of kindness and faithfulness shines even more brightly.

Lord Jesus, You taught and lived out this sort of kindness even towards those who opposed You violently. May Your Spirit anoint me to do the same today. Help me to choose to be kind, compassionate and faithful towards all those I meet, and shine the light of Your presence through me. Amen.