The Lord is in control (2 Samuel 10)
Read đź“–
Today’s reading is the whole of 2 Samuel 10
Be strong, and let us fight bravely for our people and the cities of our God. The Lord will do what is good in his sight.”
2 Samuel 10:12 (NIV)
Reflect ❤️
After reading about David’s victories in chapter 8 and kindness in chapter 9, we now see an interesting combination of both kindness and victory in chapter 10.
David was moved to show kindness to the new Ammonite King. We’re told that his father had previously shown David kindness. Unfortunately, sending the envoys to express sympathy to the new king was not well received. The Ammonite commanders convinced their new King Hanun that this wasn’t kindness at all, but King David’s attempt to spy on them and prepare to invade. Sadly, the king believed this twisted view, humiliated and assaulted the envoys, and sent them away.
I’m reminded of the devil’s method of twisting words in Genesis 3, telling Eve “Did God really say…” deliberately creating distrust and damaging the relationship between God and Eve, just like what those Ammonite commanders might have whispered to the king, “is David really being kind?” Ultimately, twisting words and planting seeds of doubt can result in being led astray, sometimes with tragic consequences. We can’t always see things for what they are, but we can trust God at his word, and we can always seek help and guidance from him in our discernment.
The Ammonites have provoked a war and so now they muster an army. King David sends Joab to lead his troops against them, causing the Ammonites (and the Arameans who were supporting them) to flee. We see a rare example of sound decision making from Joab here, who is often known for rash and violent actions. He encourages King David’s troops to fight with courage, but his bravest act here is in his declaration to his troops, where he surrenders the outcome of the battle to God’s judgement. This is a really brave thing to declare, especially on the cusp of a battle, and coming from such a flawed leader!
Joab recognised the futility of even the might of King David’s elite troops, and he publicly and courageously declared the superiority of God’s power, justice and sovereignty.
David writes in Psalm 108:12-13 “Oh grant us help against the foe, for vain is the salvation of man! With God we shall do valiantly, it is he who will tread down our foes.”
Pray 🙏
Are we making sound decisions in our lives, based on kindness and seeking God, or are we acting impulsively and judgementally towards others because of fear? Do we trust that Christ is King and we can trust him, even when our own life feels out of control? How can we foster habits of prayer and surrender to exercise that faith that God is in control and we are not?
Father God, you have shown your kindness to me so richly, help me to show kindness to others. In times of difficulty and worry, help me to trust that not only will you take care of me, but you will carry out your good plans and purposes for me. Thank you that this does not rely on my strength or wisdom, but on your sovereignty, your might, and your kindness.