Big Idea: The Lord vindicates his repentant servants when they humbly submit to his discipline.

Understanding the Text

Absalom has gained widespread support and declared himself king. Even David’s counselor, Ahithophel, has switched his allegiance. Knowing that Absalom would soon march with his army to Jerusalem, David has hastily left the city and was forced once more to run for his life. In this crisis David has submitted to God’s sovereign will, but he also has prayed and wisely enlisted the support of those who remained loyal to him. In this next section we see his reliance on the Lord vindicated. As Abigail earlier did (1 Sam. 25:18), now Ziba brings provisions for David, and, in the face of hostile opposition from Shimei, a relative of Saul, David again places his destiny in the Lo…