War & Peace

2 Samuel 8 & 9, 1 Chronicles 18

There is always a little name dropping as we read along.  Today we see the officials who served at the top with David.  Trusted men: Joab, Jehoshaphat, an Ahimelech, Seraiah, Benaiah, and Zadok.   And while Zadok and Ahimelech were priests, it is noted that they were not necessarily in sacral service, but the word used defines them also as civil servants. (NIV Notes). Little nuggets here and there that shape our mental picture.

2 Sam 8: 6 “The LORD gave David victory wherever he went.  15 “He reigned over all Israel, doing what was just and right for his people.” 

The accounts of Samuel read a little differently than in Chronicles.  There are certain parts left out of the David story because they would tarnish the Chronicles portrait of David.  The war and victory stories serve to show God’s blessing on David’s reign.  God keeps His promises to subdue David’s enemies (1 Chron 17:10) and the tribute brought to David would eventually be used to build the temple.   The line between plunder and tribute seems fine and while David amasses this treasure, it is Solomon who will eventually build the temple.  David was a man of war and he had blood on his hands.

I wonder how David felt about that.  David experiencing success in battle and as he ruled Israel.  Seeing the manifestation of God’s favour so clearly.   About wanting to do this thing for God and being told that was not God’s Plan for him. Still, God was using David in the role he was cast.   I wonder how often you and I encounter that feeling, not seeing God’s whole Plan for our lives. 

2 Samuel 9 to 20 are often referred to as the ‘Court History of David’ and is hailed as one of the finest examples of historical narrative to have been produced in the ancient world.  Their intimate and precise detail marks them as the work of an eyewitness.  (NIV Notes). It will be neat to read these chapters knowing this, but not easy.    

In this story, we also meet up with Mephibosheth again.   I love what this shows us about David’s heart and the deep commitment to his promises and oaths and the value he places on relationships. After all this time, he has not allowed his experiences at Saul’s hands to harden his heart.  How after all these years we sense that he still treasures his memories and the friendship he shared with Jonathan.  This big strong man, with an ability to lead valiant courageous men into battle, with a soft heart that treasures people and relationships.   

Some days we read earth shattering revelations and some days we get little insights. Love those!!