What do you do when you have ascended to the top? What do you do when you have achieved nearly all there is to achieve? King David chose to do something that positively impacted the lives of others.

In 2 Samuel 9, we read about a side of David that isn’t discussed enough. After ascending to the throne, moving the ark to Jerusalem, and experiencing rest from his enemies (2 Samuel 7-8), David does something unexpected for a man with no position and status.

2 Samuel 9:1-13

  • David actively seeks to be kind to someone in the family of Saul (2 Samuel 9:1-6).
    • This act of kindness stems from a promise made to Jonathan and Saul.
    • David promised to be kind to their family members once he became king (1 Samuel 20:15-17; 1 Samuel 24:20-22).
    • David became aware of a surviving member of Saul’s member. This man was Saul’s grandson and Jonathan’s grandson. His name was Mephibosheth.
    • Mephibosheth was lame. He was dropped by his nurse at the age of five (2 Samuel 4:4).
    • He lived in Lo-debar. The name means “a place where there is no pasture.” It was believed to have been located on the east side of the Jordan and was a wasteland.
    • Mephibosheth is likely living here because he is hiding from David. He is afraid that David will kill him because he is related to the previous king.
    • He falls on his face when appearing before David (2 Samuel 9:6). He believes that David has summoned him for execution.
    • But to his surprise, David does not kill him!
  • David performs kind acts towards Mephibosheth (2 Samuel 9:7-13).
    • David offers him kind words and calms him down.
    • David promises to give him all that belonged to Saul.
    • David gives him a seat at his table. He offers Mephibosheth friendship and the opportunity to eat with him regularly.
    • David treated Jonathan’s sons as a member of his family (2 Samuel 9:11).

What do we learn about David?

  • David took vows seriously.
    • He was determined to keep his promise to Saul and Jonathan.
    • Are we also determined to keep our commitments and promises?
  • David has a tender heart. David could be compassionate, merciful, and gracious.
  • David’s kindness was driven by gratitude towards God. David knew that God had blessed him and wanted to extend blessings to others.

How are we challenged?

  • Actively look for ways to be kind (Ephesians 4:32; Galatians 5:22; 6:10).
  • Be kind and expect nothing in return (Luke 14:12-14).
  • See God’s kindness towards us (Romans 2:4).

Conclusion:

How will you respond to the kindness of God?