1 & 2 Samuel – Page 5

2 Samuel 18:9-18 – The Death of Absalom

view looking up at a bunch of tree branches

It had to happen. David was the king ordained by God. Absalom was just an imposter. Despite David’s request to “deal gently,” I’m afraid Absalom’s final moments were a bit gruesome. Who actually killed Absalom, is a bit convoluted in the passage. Was it Joab or the ten armor bearers?

No matter, now Joab has the difficult task of telling the king. How do you break that news whether it was by your own hand or at the hand of your men? The fact that father and son were at odds in this way is a little out of the ordinary in the first place.

2 Samuel 18:1-8 – Family Battles

Read 2 Samuel 18:1-8

two young boys arm-wrestling in the sand

King David is portrayed in several different ways in this text. As king and as a father, we see David in a bit of torment. Yet, he doesn’t let this stop him. He only asks, “deal gently with young Absalom.” David doesn’t use the word “son,” perhaps because it hurts too much to know his own son has turned away from him.

When his predecessor, Saul, learned that his own son, Jonathan had turned against him, he went bezerk. David does not lose his composure or ability to lead. In fact, he is seen as “too valuable” to go to war against Absalom.

2 Samuel 17:24-29 – Getting Ready for Battle

Read 2 Samuel 17:24-29

We get a glimpse of how the two sides are getting ready for battle. Absalom is mobilizing his troops and David and his men are being cared for and supported by non-Israelites! What a difference!

Absalom puts Joab’s cousin, Amasa, in charge as commander. That must have been quite an honor for Amasa. It’s not mentioned, but I can’t help but wonder if there was any tension for Amasa knowing his cousin was loyal to King David? Again unspoken, but how was young Absalom feeling in this moment?

2 Samuel 17:15-23 – Networking

Read 2 Samuel 17:15-23

3 women walking with purpose down a path with back packs, holding hands

David has a strong network keeping him safe. Yet, the one who is truly in charge is God.

It’s like that for us, too. We have family and friends cheering us on, keeping our best interests in mind. Even more important, God is present, hovering and protecting. His protection can often involve a learning experience.

What do you think of David’s daringly effective intelligence network? Brilliant together, yet each has a job to do–a bit of espionage in this story of David and Absalom’s dispute. I’m not sure David is as upset with Absalom as it appears Absalom is with his father. What brought that on, do you suppose? Could it be that David ignored the situation when Amnon raped Absalom’s sister?

2 Samuel 17:1-14 – Here’s the Plan

Read 2 Samuel 17:1-14

two hands in the process of putting two puzzle pieces together

The contrast could not be clearer between the plans given to Absalom by his two advisors. The quick and simple plan of Ahithophel is probably the best plan for Absalom’s victory. While the plan outlined by David’s true ally, Hushai, over complicates the situation. Hushai is a master of double talk and makes the case for his own plan to be better than Ahithophel’s. Better for David to be sure.

Any time we find ourselves in the planning phase of any project, there are bound to be differences of opinions between leadership. How do you pick the best plan? Seeking guidance through prayer is my first go-to. But it hasn’t always been that way. For many years, I relied on my own ideas.