Today we see 4 consequences as a result of yesterday’s 4 adversities.
1) Ahithophel, David’s former counselor gone traitor, kills himself when he finds out that Absalom did not take his advice.
2) Absalom pursues David and David sends his men out against him with a clear command to everyone, “Deal gently for my sake with the young man Absalom”. Well, I’m not sure what Joab’s definition of gently is but when he sees Absalom hanging in a tree by his head he drives 3 spears through his heart. 😳 Then Joab’s men finish him off. David mourns the death of his son so much that it puts a major damper on the victory David’s men are celebrating for defeating the enemy who was trying to kill David and take the kingdom. Joab rebukes David for making his servants feel ashamed for saving his life and the life of his family. David then takes a public seat among the people.
3) On David’s return to Jerusalem he runs into the insult slinging Shimei again. Now that David is restored as king, Shimei bows down before him and begs for forgiveness. David spares his life but this isn’t the last we hear of Shimei.
4) When David returns, loyal Mephibosheth is there waiting on David. David finds out that Ziba deceived Mephibosheth and left him behind. Therefore, David tells Mephibosheth to split the land with Ziba but Mephibosheth does not care about the land. He is just glad the king is home! 🙌
Tomorrow the Gibeonites show up again. Remember when they pretended to be from a far away country and Joshua made a treaty with them? Keep reading to find out why the Gibeonites are so upset.
(2 SAmuel 17:15-29, Psalm 3, Psalm 63, 2 Samuel 18:1-19:30)
Chronological Bible in Layman's Terms 