by Jack Palmer, N. Ireland
INTRODUCTION
The moment of David’s anointing by Samuel the prophet, recorded in 1Samuel chapter 16, represented a highly significant stage on his predetermined journey from the lowly preparatory sheepfolds, Ps.78.70, to the lofty heights of reigning, firstly over Judah, and some seven years later, over the entire nation. While his actual enthronement was deferred for a number of years, his anointing as Saul’s successor was a clear confirmation of the Divine principle that the second was the one of spiritual character, in contrast to the first, who was marked by carnal and fleshly activity. Saul was desired by the nation and everything about him and his reign confirmed that he was fleshly in character and conduct, whereas David, in sharp contrast, was God’s choice. If left to Samuel, the choice would have been entirely different, and would have been based on external features such as height and appearance, but the ways of God were altogether different and He, in His unfailing wisdom and sovereignty, made choice of the lad who “keepeth the sheep” 1Sam.16.11. It is important to observe that at the moment of his anointing “in the midst of his brethren … the Spirit of the Lord came upon David from that day forward” 1Sam.16.13. Sadly, “the Spirit of the Lord departed from Saul, and an evil spirit from the Lord troubled him” 1Sam.16.14.
CONTEMPLATION
As Samuel returned to Ramah and David to his family home it must have been a time for reflection. With so much having taken place so quickly it is inevitable that David’s mind would have been filled with many questions. It is most likely he would have wondered why he had been chosen, what this would mean for him, how his anointing would be acclaimed and, maybe uppermost in his mind, when he would become king. These are age-old questions confronted by those whom God teaches in His school and it is most instructive to learn how David committed all these issues into the hand of his God. He resisted repeated opportunities to take things into his own hand and take the life of Saul, when it would have been easy to do so and when he was encouraged by others to take such a course of action. How good to wait upon God and His timing! David’s readiness to wait is so commendable but it is most unlikely that he thought it would be such a long time until he would be crowned king, and that even then his coronation would be in two significant stages. Let us learn that God tests more than our obedience; He tests our willingness to wait for His timing in regard to the outworking of His purposes. While we uphold David as a Christ-like example in the display of patience, we also have much to learn from Abraham, who acted unadvisedly in advance of God’s time regarding the matter of the promised seed and introduced an unspiritual legacy with such far-reaching implications, which remain to this present day. Let us remember that David wrote, “My soul, wait thou only upon God; for my expectation is from Him” Ps.62.5.
PREPARATION
Flight
The path onward from the moment of his anointing was far from easy or straightforward. His trials were many en route to the throne, and although they came in different guises and from a variety of sources, they were all attacks energised by the flesh, which “lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh” Gal.5.17. It is most unlikely that David could ever have anticipated that he, at such an early stage in life, would engage in combat with a seasoned warrior like Goliath or be exposed to the challenge of popularity as “the women answered one another as they played, and said, ‘Saul hath slain his thousands, and David his ten thousands’” 1Sam.18.7. He was soon to encounter the cutting edge of Saul’s increasing hostility by demotion from his position as head of his personal bodyguard to a mere captain over one thousand men. Saul again treated David most shamefully when he failed to honour his commitment to give him the daughter he had promised to be his wife. Increasing persecution led to David’s complete separation from the court of Saul and his becoming an outlaw and a fugitive.
Friends
Amidst such hatred and opposition an outstanding friendship developed between the despised David and Jonathan, Saul’s son: a beautiful picture of the love of believers for a rejected Lord and Saviour, and of true Christian love more generally. As an exile he faced many trials and enjoyed many triumphs, in spite of the fact that he was at times marked by failure and characterised by features which were not always appropriate. Overall, God was with David, and He preserved, guided and helped him in trying and demanding circumstances. It was during this period that David assembled a loyal band of devoted followers; this subsequently grew to six hundred in number. The gathering of this group to David at the cave of Adullam, 1Samuel chapter 22, is a delightful foreshadowing of believers of this dispensation gathering to the Lord Jesus during His time of absence.
Fight
This period of persecution was both necessary and educative in this phase of David’s life, as a vital part of his preparation for the years when he would occupy the throne. Warren W. Wiersbe observes: “He was already a great soldier; now he needed to suffer in the wilderness to learn not to trust men but to trust the Lord. All of us need ‘wilderness testings’ to bring us closer to the Lord and to make us better equipped to serve Him. Saul’s persecution of David is an illustration of the conflict between the flesh and the Spirit.”1
- 1 Wiersbe, Warren W. “Wiersbe’s Expository Outlines on The Old Testament”. Victor Books, 1993.
Fortitude
While Saul pursued David unrelentingly, and was in many ways an instrument in the hand of Satan in an attempt to overthrow him, the preserving power and presence of God were much stronger than the power of the enemy. Insofar as David moved in dependence upon his God and sought His guidance, God not only granted protection but also gave victory over many of his enemies. These victories would be worthy of more detailed study if space permitted; we ought to stress that the key to them lay entirely in David’s total reliance upon God. Again, he is a very clear picture of our Lord Jesus, Who moved in total dependence on His God, “in the days of His flesh, when He had offered up prayers and supplications with strong crying and tears, unto Him that was able to save Him from death” Heb.5.7. Again, we are exhorted: “Behold My Servant, whom I uphold; Mine elect, in whom My soul delighteth” Isa.42.1.
Failures
In contrast, there were several other occasions when David acted less honourably. Failure to seek the face of God for guidance, and times when he acted in untruthful and deceptive ways, revealed a less helpful side of his character and conduct. We can learn too from the occasions when his initial reaction was to move hastily according to the impulses of the flesh, and yet when he was graciously preserved through the wisdom and intervention of others, for example, when Abigail interjected in a masterly way and he was prevented from pursuing Nabal as he originally intended; the full details are recorded in 1Samuel chapter 25.
Fidelity
Amidst all the ups and downs of the challenges that this probationary period held for David, his largely unchanging attitude to Saul is commendable and deserves consideration. Regardless of Saul’s unwavering opposition, he ever remained the Lord’s anointed as far as David was concerned. Golden opportunities to take the life of Saul were graciously declined by David and on his authority his associates were restrained from touching Saul when they were poised and eager to take revenge. Such was David’s regard for Saul as the Lord’s anointed that his “heart smote him, because he had cut off Saul’s skirt” 1Sam.24.5. In keeping with this it should be observed that when Saul’s life ended in the most ignominious circumstances there was no hint of triumphalism or gloating. Rather, David was marked by genuine grief as he “lamented … over Saul and over Jonathan his son” 2Sam.1.17. As we reflect on such a gracious disposition it finds a lovely echo in the words of the Saviour: “Love your enemies, do good to them which hate you, bless them that curse you, and pray for them which despitefully use you” Lk.6.27,28. A similar trait marked the departing Stephen as he cried, “Lord, lay not this sin to their charge” Acts 7.60.
TRANSITION
There was nothing uplifting or praiseworthy about the death of Saul. The circumstances of his passing were characteristic of a life that was unfruitful and self-centred. To his credit, David never sought the prominence of the throne and he graciously waited upon God. He was to learn experimentally that the wheels of God’s purpose turn slowly but effectively. He could have been forgiven for thinking that, now that Saul had been removed, the path to the throne would have been quick and relatively straightforward. Like so many more, he had to appreciate that “My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways My ways, saith the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways, and My thoughts than your thoughts” Isa.55.8,9. David had to learn that while Saul had been removed, his associates lived on and that the struggle with everything that Saul represented continued. It is reassuring to remember that “the Lord bringeth the counsel of the heathen to nought: He maketh the devices of the people of none effect. The counsel of the Lord standeth for ever” Ps.33.10,11.
Distress
While David felt keenly the passing of Saul, he was greatly touched by the death of his much-loved friend Jonathan. The intensity of his sorrow can easily be detected as David exclaimed, “I am distressed for thee, my brother Jonathan: very pleasant hast thou been unto me: thy love to me was wonderful, passing the love of women” 2Sam.1.26. David greatly valued those expressions of sacrificial love towards him, particularly on those occasions when he was much maligned and bore the difficult hardships of being opposed and callously forsaken. May we too be marked by similar love and devotion to our rejected Lord and Saviour in a world where He was hated and rejected, just as David was during his times of bitter persecution and rejection, knowing that “if we suffer, we shall also reign with Him: if we deny Him, He also will deny us” 2Tim.2.12.
Direction
After the ignominious demise of Saul and Jonathan, “it came to pass … that David inquired of the Lord, saying, ‘Shall I go up into any of the cities of Judah?’ And the Lord said unto him, ‘Go up.’ And David said, ‘Whither shall I go up?’ And He said, ‘Unto Hebron’” 2Sam.2.1. Unlike Saul, David enjoyed intimate communion with God and he was given specific instructions to proceed on his upward journey to the Divinely-specified city. David’s willingness to move without delay, and at the same time to display a caring attitude to his wives, offers an important, wholesome example for us in the exercise of obedience and diligence.
Devotees
How precious to read that “his men that were with him did bring David up, every man with his household: and they dwelt in the cities [towns] of Hebron” 2Sam.2.3. These men were marked by loyalty to and love for David. The Lord Jesus had those who were faithful to Him. Let us never forget: the welcoming home at Bethany, which He visited and where He found care and compassion just prior to His suffering and crucifixion, as described in John chapter 12; the faithful band of women that “stood by the cross of Jesus” Jn.19.25; the outstanding devotion of “Joseph of Arimathaea, being a disciple of Jesus, but secretly for fear of the Jews”, who “besought Pilate that he might take away the body of Jesus” and who “came therefore, and took the body of Jesus” Jn.19.38; and the loving contribution of Nicodemus, who “brought a mixture of myrrh and aloes, about a hundred pound weight” Jn.19.39. The record of these outstanding acts of devotion has been preserved eternally in the Holy Scriptures, an unmistakable indication of heaven’s appreciation and recognition.
CORONATION
Consummation
David’s unparalleled journey from the obscurity of looking after the sheep to the moment of his being anointed king over all Israel was long and challenging. He was anointed on three separate occasions: firstly, by the prophet Samuel, in his home town, Bethlehem, 1Sam.16.13; secondly, by the men of Judah, over the house of Judah, in Hebron, 2Sam.2.4; and thirdly, over all Israel and Judah, again at Hebron, 2Sam.5.3-5. As we think about David’s anointing our thoughts turn to his greater Son, Who is described prophetically as God’s Anointed and King, Ps.2.2,6. It is highly significant that all the tribes of Israel came together to David at Hebron. A tracing of the Old Testament references to Hebron show it as a place of communion and fellowship. It is so precious when a nation is marked by unity and its people are at ease with themselves. It is no less precious when members of an assembly display the same characteristics. It was appropriate that David himself should later write, “Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity! … for there the Lord commanded the blessing, even life for evermore” Ps.133.1,3. How solemn to remember that soon after the demise of Solomon the nation succumbed to tragic division. We should note that division and disunity are not of God.
Concentration
David could have been forgiven if he had ever wondered how God’s purpose for him would be fulfilled. Along the way he had encountered opposition and unanticipated twists and turns but in all of these he proved the faithfulness and preserving care of his God. Having now been granted his rightful place as the sovereign of the whole nation “according to the word of the Lord by Samuel” 1Chr.11.3, the freshly-crowned king required a capital city for a headquarters for the duration of his reign. His choice was Jerusalem. This ancient city, first mentioned as Salem in the days of Melchizedek, who was then its king and “the priest of the most high God” Gen.14.18, was under the control of the Gentile Jebusites, who were defiant in their attitude toward David. It seems from 2Sam.5.6 that the Jebusites were confident in their ability to retain control of the city, but this was clearly misplaced, and in spite of their arrogant and haughty attitude “David took the stronghold of Zion: the same is the city of David” 2Sam.5.7. From here onward, this city takes on an increasing significance, not only in the reign of David but in the outworking of Divine purpose in relation to David’s greater Son, the Lord Jesus, whether during His time in the world or in the future days of manifestation and Millennial glory.
Confirmation
Evidently the time had come for the establishment of David as the rightful ruler over the entire nation. In this context it needs to be observed that nothing can hinder or delay the implementation of what God has planned. Scripture states things so clearly, accurately and succinctly. There is something profound, reassuring and fulfilling as we read: “David dwelt … David built … David went on … and grew great, and the Lord God of hosts was with him” 2Sam.5.9,10. Details of how the city of David’s choice was delivered out of the control of the Jebusites are set out in 2Samuel chapter 5 and 1Chronicles chapter 11. As these developments unfolded David sought no credit for himself whatsoever; rather, he “perceived that the Lord had established him king over Israel, and that He had exalted his kingdom for His people Israel’s sake” 2Sam.5.12. While David is mainly linked with the Lord Jesus in His rejection and suffering, there is a significant preview of future glory to be seen in David as he was brought to a position of power and prominence. The reign of the Lord Jesus will of course be without challenge and it will far and away outshine that of David, particularly in regard to its dominion, domain and duration. It is ever true that “in all things He might have the preeminence” Col.1.18.
Consolidation
It is hardly surprising that David made his home in the city of his choice. His home is described as a “fort” 2Sam.5.9, and a “castle” 1Chr.11.7, and because he lived there “they called it the city of David” 1Chr.11.7. It was David who, by his presence, gave character to the city. From that moment forward, this city was destined for an enduring place in the purpose of God and it will find its complete fulfilment in future days of Millennial glory, when the beautiful words of Psalm 24 will cease to be prophetic, and “the King of glory shall come in” v.9. It is generally held that the events recorded in 2Samuel chapter 6 and 1Chronicles chapter 15 provide the historical background to Psalm 24, written by David to mark the happy occasion of the return of the ark of the Covenant, which had been dislodged from its rightful place since the time of its removal by the Philistines in the dark days of Eli, as described in 1Samuel chapter 4. Limitations on space preclude an opportunity to trace all of the movements of the Ark, but encouraged by tidings of blessing upon Obed-edom and his household, where the Ark had been for three months, David arranged for the Ark to be brought to Mount Zion and placed in the tent he had prepared for it. On this occasion the Ark was carried on the shoulders of sanctified Levites, as had previously been specified. It was a special and a joyful occasion, accompanied by sacrificing, singing and dancing, and “as soon as David had made an end of offering burnt offerings and peace offerings, he blessed the people in the name of the Lord of hosts. And he dealt among all the people, even among the whole multitude of Israel, as well to the women as men, to every one a cake of bread, and a good piece of flesh, and a flagon of wine. So all the people departed every one to his house” 2Sam.6.18,19. As David returned to his own home he was met by the derision of his wife Michal, who failed to empathise with the spiritual joy of her husband and was sadly deprived of her fruitfulness in the matter of childbearing for the remaining part of her life. Well might we ask: “Can two walk together, except they be agreed?” Amos 3.3.
Continuation
It is necessary for us to notice that the establishment of David on the throne did not represent an end to his difficulties and hardships. The Philistines neither waned nor varied in their opposition, which is a salutary reminder that the enemy is unchanging in attitude and hostility, and will be with us to the end of the journey. On the other hand, there were those who were loyal and devoted to David, and Scripture never fails to mark and value such acts of commitment and faithfulness. How precious to note that:
- He is coming – oh how solemn
- When the Judge’s voice is heard,
- And in His own light He shows us
- Every thought, and act, and word!
- Deeds of merit, as we thought them,
- He will show us were but sin;
- Little acts we had forgotten
- He will tell us were for Him.
- (A.M. Monteath)
Compassion
How significant to observe that “David reigned over all Israel; and … executed judgment and justice unto all his people” 2Sam.8.15. These commendable characteristics were not displayed at the expense of care and compassion. His attitude is quite remarkable and is so graciously displayed in the question he posed: “Is there yet any that is left of the house of Saul, that I may shew him kindness for Jonathan’s sake?” 2Sam.9.1. There was no hostility toward Saul, in spite of all his relentless cruelty and opposition; and another commendable feature emerged on the part of David as he demonstrated that he never allowed to slip from memory the love that he and Jonathan had the one for the other. The heart-warming story of Mephibosheth carries an enduring freshness as a classical foreshadowing of “the exceeding riches of His grace in His kindness toward us through Christ Jesus” Eph.2.7. The grace that lifted Mephibosheth from the dearth and distance of Lo-debar, and elevated him to a place at the king’s table as one of the king’s sons, is truly marvellous and beyond adequate dimension or description. If space allowed, there could be a fuller consideration of this unfolding of such great kindness and of the part that this individual played later in the life of David.
PROPOSITION
A contemplation of David’s inevitable rise to prominence would not be complete without a brief comment on the desire of his heart to build an abiding place for the Ark: “And it came to pass, when the king sat in his house, and the Lord had given him rest round about from all his enemies; that the king said unto Nathan the prophet, ‘See now, I dwell in an house of cedar, but the ark of God dwelleth within curtains.’ And Nathan said to the king, ‘Go, do all that is in thine heart; for the Lord is with thee’” 2Sam.7.1-3.
His Correction
From a human point of view the desire of the recently-crowned king was entirely understandable and also appeared wholesome and laudable in the ears of Nathan the prophet. After all, the Lord had graciously preserved him in the midst of many dangers and hardships and had ultimately elevated him to the noble place of sovereign ruler of the land. He was now enjoying comparative supremacy and security and was settled into an accommodating house of cedar. Maybe he was beginning to experience the irritating pangs of guilt insofar as he reckoned that he owed it to the Lord to provide a more settled and secure abiding place for the sacred vessel. To be fair, Nathan the prophet was of the same view to begin with, but it was “that night [the self-same night], that the word of the Lord came unto Nathan, saying, ‘Go and tell My servant David, Thus saith the Lord, Shalt thou build Me an house for Me to dwell in?’” 2Sam.7.4,5. With instant and becoming obedience Nathan communicated the mind of the Lord to David; he had to learn that he could never recompense or reward the Lord for all of His grace; otherwise it would not have been grace in the first place. He also had to appreciate that God’s time had not come for His presence to dwell on earth in a settled locality and that when the time would come, the honour of building such a place would be reserved for Solomon his son. We should never lose sight of the typical significance of this: that during this dispensation of grace the Lord’s abode on earth is from locality to locality in the context of assembly testimony, whereas in a future day of Millennial glory the Temple structure will be the enduring abode of the Divine presence. The practical import for David and for us is equally significant: as he discerned the will of God for him in “his own generation” Acts 13.36, so may we also in ours.
His Education
While David learned through the prophet that he was prohibited from building the house, the time would come when this great task would fall to “[his] seed after [him]” and the Lord would “establish his kingdom” 2Sam.7.12. David’s tenure was marked by sustaining grace; that of his son Solomon carried the brand mark of glory. C.H. Mackintosh observes: “Such are God’s promises to the house of His servant David. Well might the astonished recipient of such mercies, when speaking of all that had been done for him, exclaim, ‘And this was yet a small thing in Thy sight, O Lord God.’ What was the past, when compared with the future? Grace shone in the past, but glory glistened in the future. ‘The Lord will give grace and glory.’ Grace lays the foundation; glory garnishes the superstructure. This is true of all; it is true, in an eminent degree, of the Church, as we learn from the Epistle to the Ephesians.”2
- 2 Mackintosh, C.H. “The Mackintosh Treasury”. Loizeaux Brothers, 1978.
His Reaction
Confronted with such unanticipated tidings the king reacted with noteworthy calm and dignity. Without any outward display of carnal resentment, “then went king David in, and sat before the Lord, and he said, ‘Who am I, O Lord God? And what is my house, that Thou hast brought me hitherto?’” 2Sam.7.18. Just as David revealed a proper understanding of his personal status, his appreciation of the greatness and glory of the Lord assumed escalating proportions and with adoring lip he exclaimed, “Wherefore Thou art great, O Lord God: for there is none like Thee, neither is there any God beside Thee, according to all that we have heard with our ears” 2Sam.7.22. Great lessons are to be learned from those who find themselves exposed to the Divine presence. We recall how Peter “fell down at Jesus’ knees, saying, ‘Depart from me; for I am a sinful man, O Lord’” Lk.5.8. It is an unchanging principle that “no flesh should glory in His presence” 1Cor.1.29, and that “He must increase … I must decrease” Jn.3.30.
His Preparation
To his credit, David did not display any hint of resentment or disappointment, but rather took on board all that was disclosed to him, and demonstrated that, while his thoughts in regard to the building of the house required adjustment, his love for the house and his willingness to contribute to its construction remained unabated. His personal plans took second place to the purposes and ways of his God and with gracious, submissive wholeheartedness he revealed: “I have prepared with all my might for the house of my God the gold for things to be made of gold, and the silver for things of silver, and the brass for things of brass, the iron for things of iron, and wood for things of wood; onyx stones and stones to be set, glistering stones, and of divers colours, and all manner of precious stones, and marble stones in abundance” 1Chr.29.2. What impressive liberality and zeal on the part of David! His primary concern was that the house be built according to the will of God and that His name be glorified thereby. It is good when one’s personal interests take second place to the honour and glory of God. We do well to remember that the assembly is far greater than any individual member.
His Acquisition
Central to his preparation was the procurement of a site for the erection of the Temple. The circumstances surrounding its purchase are described in appropriate detail in 1Chronicles chapter 21. It is perhaps surprising that the identification and securing of the site should emerge from one of David’s darker moments, when he numbered the people. In its aftermath “the angel of the Lord commanded Gad to say to David, that David should go up, and set up an altar unto the Lord in the threshingfloor of Ornan the Jebusite” 1Chr.21.18. Marked by commendable obedience, David approached Ornan with a view to acquiring the site for the purpose of building an altar and offering sacrifices. Rather than accept the site as a gift, David avowed that he would “verily buy it for the full price: for I will not take that which is thine for the Lord, nor offer burnt offerings without cost” 1Chr.21.24. This is a clear confirmation that genuine sacrifice is costly. Tracing links between this site and Moriah, where Abraham effectively offered up Isaac, Genesis chapter 22, and its proximity to the place where the Lord Jesus was crucified, offers profitable avenues for further study.
His Estimation
We have already observed that it was the mind of God that Solomon would be the builder of the Temple. We have also noted that David’s disqualification from this task in no way affected his commitment to wholeheartedly contribute to the erection of a structure he would never see. This represents an important lesson for us all. There are so many aspects of the work of the Lord in which we have no direct involvement, yet it is vital that we support those who do, in so many ways and locations. Paul spoke affectionately about Priscilla and Aquila as “my helpers in Christ Jesus” Rom.16.3.
David, the experienced sovereign, also had a deep understanding and sympathy for his successor. He fully appreciated the magnitude of the task which would fall to one so “young and tender” 1Chr.22.5, and recognised that Solomon would require much of the presence and prudence of God in the building of the house and in the discharge of his responsibilities as ruler of the nation, 1Chr.22.11,12. David was also driven on by an appreciation that the Temple was “for the Lord”, and as such “must be exceeding magnifical”, and would ultimately be “of fame and of glory throughout all countries” 1Chr.22.5. In preparing and contributing with such purpose and generosity, David was quick to recognise that he did not deserve any credit, but all the glory should be ascribed to God, Who in the first place was the giver of such bounty. How delightful to note that “David blessed the Lord before all the congregation: and … said, ‘Blessed be Thou, Lord God of Israel our father, for ever and ever. Thine, O Lord, is the greatness, and the power, and the glory, and the victory, and the majesty: for all that is in the heaven and in the earth is Thine; Thine is the kingdom, O Lord, and Thou art exalted as head above all. Both riches and honour come of Thee, and Thou reignest over all; and in Thine hand is power and might; and in Thine hand it is to make great, and to give strength unto all. Now therefore, our God, we thank Thee, and praise Thy glorious name’” 1Chr.29.10-13. Overcome by such grace, glory and greatness David asked, “But who am I, and what is my people, that we should be able to offer so willingly after this sort? For all things come of Thee, and of Thine own have we given Thee” 1Chr.29.14. May we learn, as David did, that everything we have and enjoy has come from God in the first instance, and that we are recipients through the abundance of His grace but at the same time accountable as stewards in our handling of all that He has entrusted to us.
CONSUMMATION
With total conformity to the will of God, and having provided with unstinted liberality for the erection of the Temple, “David said to all the congregation, ‘Now bless the Lord your God.’ And all the congregation blessed the Lord God of their fathers, and bowed down their heads, and worshipped the Lord” 1Chr.29.20. After offering multiple sacrifices “they made Solomon the son of David king” and “then Solomon sat on the throne of the Lord as king instead of David his father, and prospered; and all Israel obeyed him” 1Chr.29.22,23. As his successor was enthroned it is recorded succinctly that David “died in a good old age, full of days, riches, honour: and Solomon his son reigned in his stead” 1Chr.29.28. The handing on of responsibility is an important Scriptural principle and remains relevant to the present hour in the context of the assembly. May we ever be mindful of Paul’s exhortation to Timothy to “be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also” 2Tim.2.1,2.
DEFECTIONS
So far in our meditations we have focused on those aspects of David and his household which are encouraging and uplifting. A contemplation of how he was taken from relative obscurity, developed in the experimental school of God and brought to the prominence of the throne, fills our hearts with wonder and clearly confirms how Divine purpose will be fulfilled in spite of all the emerging opposing forces. David is a prime example of this and his history displays so many features that are commendable and laudable, so much so that, as we reflect upon them, they provide attractive representations of our Lord Jesus Christ. Be that as it may, Bible biographies differ from secular writings and they tell it as it really is; they never cover up failure or shortcomings. In the case of David, his story is told with unfailing accuracy and it presents a number of instances when he acted unadvisedly and entirely inappropriately. The sad record of these is preserved in Holy Scripture, not that any should ever glory in such lapses in conduct but rather that we should learn from them and ever be mindful that “these things happened unto them for ensamples: and they are written for our admonition … Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall” 1Cor.10.11,12.
General Observations
Before considering the main breakdowns in David’s life, let us observe some of the features and underlying circumstances common to them all. Firstly, it is vital to stress that the most Godly in character and conduct are not immune from temptation and have a potential to fall. It is sobering to remember that “a man after [God’s] own heart” Acts 13.22, could be capable of committing the sins so accurately and eternally recorded in the Bible. Secondly, as Mr. Albert McShane observes, “these breakdowns were spread over the greater part of his lifetime, the first taking place when he was young and before he was made king, the second, when he was in middle-life and established in his kingdom; and the third, when he was nearing the end of life.”3 This teaches us that we are susceptible to temptation and in danger of succumbing to it at every stage of life. Thirdly, temptation comes in a variety of ways. Again, as Mr. McShane has helpfully pointed out, “In his [David’s] first disaster he was tempted from the world without him; in the second the temptation arose from the flesh within; while in the third, he was seduced by Satan himself. Thus he was attacked at different times by our threefold enemy.”3 Fourthly, when breakdowns occur usually there are underlying circumstances, and it was thus with David: he acted in a self-centred way and, with tragic consequences, independently of his God. May we ever move in keeping with the will of our God and in dependence upon Him. The Lord Jesus never deviated in this vital matter; He said, “My meat is to do the will of Him that sent Me, and to finish His work” Jn.4.34. May we ever remember that He has left “us an example, that ye should follow His steps” 1Pet.2.21. Fifthly, while recovery is possible, the reality is that associated consequences are searching and enduring. A constant awareness of the abiding fallout from such unwelcome lapses ought to remind us of the need for continual preservation. David learned from bitter experience that he needed power outside of himself if he was to be preserved; it is hardly a coincidence that it was with his own pen that he wrote, “Preserve me, O God: For in Thee do I put my trust” Ps.16.1. Bitter experience taught David that failure to trust in his God was a recipe for disaster!
- 3 McShane, A. “Writings of Albert McShane”. John Ritchie Ltd., 2003.
Specific Considerations
On a number of occasions over the course of his life, David displayed traits which were neither commendable nor becoming of one of such noble standing. Could it be that he overindulged in the adulation of the women as they sang his praises in the wake of his triumph over Goliath, 1Sam.18.7? Again, he was less than honest as he sought to discern the attitude of Saul via his trusted friend Jonathan, 1Sam.20.6; and he also reacted in a rash, fleshly manner when Nabal refused his request for help, and was only preserved from widespread bloodshed by the prudent intervention of Abigail, 1Samuel chapter 25. It has also been suggested that David’s response to the tragic death of Absalom, while understandable, did not reflect a proper recognition of the wellbeing of the nation or of the interests of God in the matter, 2Samuel chapter 18. With this in mind, let us ponder the three highly significant breakdowns in the life of David. We do so not in a judgmental way, but as we soberly reflect upon these incidents, it is with humility and a real awareness of our susceptibility.
David’s Resort to Gath
It is difficult to imagine that the one who had publicly proclaimed his confidence in God, who had witnessed a mighty victory over the champion of the Philistines and had been the theme of the adoration of the singing women in the street should so soon afterwards flee out of fear of Saul and go “to Achish the king of Gath” 1Sam.21.10. David, marked by trembling and clutching the sword of Goliath, turned to the Philistine for help. What a pitiful sight! Well might we ask: what has become of his trust in God? It is clear that he moved outside the will of God; it was never the mind of God that he should turn to such a worldly source in a time such as this. Acting independently of God, as David did, led only to very unbecoming and damaging consequences.
One wrong step quickly leads to another. In an attempt to rescue the situation David “changed his behaviour before them, and feigned himself mad in their hands, and scrabbled on the doors of the gate, and let his spittle fall down upon his beard” 1Sam.21.13. To have been deemed as mad, and hence unwelcome, must have been most humiliating. The escape to the cave of Adullam offered some temporary relief and, supported by those who faithfully gathered to him, opportunity for timely reflection was put to effective use. It is clear from Psalms 34 and 56 that David appreciated how far he had fallen and that it was the Lord Who saved him out of all his troubles. Some suggest that Psalm 34 could have been written in the cave of Adullam, yet in spite of God’s delivering mercies, David revisited Philistine territory and stayed with Achish for a further period of well over a year. It was during this extended stay that he became acquainted with the woman who later gave birth to Absalom, the boy who brought so much sorrow and anguish to the heart of his father.5 At times we are slow to learn from our mistakes and maybe not as quick as we should be to appreciate that, while God is able to deliver us again and again, the consequences of our folly still remain.
- 5 Ibid.
David and Bath-sheba
This episode in the life of David makes depressing reading by any standards. It is beyond comprehension that one so favoured and elevated to a position of responsibility and authority should sink so low; yet the details so explicitly recorded on the page of Holy Scripture cannot be glossed over or disregarded. We come to them in deep humility and with an alarming awareness of a similar potential within each one of us. In this context C.H. Mackintosh noted that “the history of the most obscure believer will be found to exhibit, though on a smaller scale, all the roughness, inequalities, and inconsistencies observable in David’s course. Indeed, it is this that renders the narrative of his life and times so peculiarly, so touchingly interesting to us.”6
- 6 Mackintosh, C.H., ibid.
A detailed consideration of the part that women played in the life of David exceeds the remit of this chapter. It was never the mind of God that the kings of Israel should have multiple wives, Deut.17.17, but it would seem that David followed the standard of other kings around him at that time insofar as he took to himself several wives and concubines.
In addition to his less commendable approach and attitude to women, David’s downfall in relation to Bath-sheba began with his idleness and indulgence at the time of battle. Now established upon the throne, and instead of leading his troops from the front, he became complacent and began to take things easy. While others went forth to battle, “David tarried still at Jerusalem” 2Sam.11.1; and in these moments of leisure, resting at home and off guard, sadly he became vulnerable and open to the attacks of the enemy. Such a one was quick to exploit the gaps that appeared in his defences, and presented an opportunity which David proved powerless to resist. Just at that moment he fell into a deep valley of shame and a pit of moral corruption leaving a never-to-be-forgotten mark of dishonour. All could have been so different had David been where he should have been and had not put himself in the way of such an opportunity; if only he had acted in a Joseph-like manner how different things would have been.
The moment David committed this awful sin he immediately set about covering it up. Uriah declined the opportunity to return to his home; he was made drunk in a shameful manner and he was callously murdered. How solemn to observe that blatant adultery was followed by manipulative murder. Subsequently Bath-sheba became David’s wife and the child conceived in such ignominious circumstances was born. Sadly, on David’s part there was initially no apparent sense of guilt, repentance or God-consciousness. Be that as it may, “the thing that David had done displeased the Lord” 2Sam.11.27.
When it seemed that the crisis had been averted, God intervened to cause David to face the reality of his sin. The visit of Nathan and his parable stirred anger in the heart of David. He was so blind that he was quick to judge in the actions of someone else the same sins he had himself committed. Nathan, with openness and faithfulness, sent an arrow of conviction into the conscience of David; how must he have felt as Nathan pointedly said, “Thou art the man” 2Sam.12.7!
Although Nathan graciously told of God’s willingness to forgive, he spoke with equal clarity of the serious consequences of the sin committed. He foretold the death of the child, and other ensuing judgments. Through the intervention of Nathan, David was brought to true repentance and acknowledgement of his wrong doing. Psalms 51 and 32 show how David came to understand the utter corruptness of what he was by nature, and the wickedness of what he had done, but he also partook of the joy of being forgiven, not that this should ever be an excuse for such a sin in the first instance. It should also be noted that this sin ultimately led to the rebellion of Absalom and the trial of ensuing suffering and heartache. It ever remains that “the way of transgressors is hard” Prov.13.15.
Numbering the People
Difficulties arise in reconciling the accounts given in 2Samuel chapter 24 and 1Chronicles chapter 21 of David’s numbering of the people. We could also, on the face of it, wonder what is really wrong with him wanting to know the number of the people or the strength of his available armed forces. After all, this could be thought of as quite a reasonable thing to do. Yet what David did was deemed by God to be a serious sin and this is clearly demonstrated by the pestilent judgment imposed and the associated death of seventy thousand men, 2Sam.24.15.
It is worth noting that soon after the numbering had been completed David’s heart smote him and guilt overtook him. Without tracing all the details, David disclosed how he felt when he wrote, “In my prosperity I said, ‘I shall never be moved’” Ps.30.6. It would seem that in seeking to number the people David had sought to elevate himself, to promote his sufficiency and to magnify his name. To put reliance in the flesh rather than dependence in God is no light matter, especially from a Divine point of view. Such an attitude is displeasing and will invoke God’s judgment; it remains that “it is better to trust in the Lord than to put confidence in man” Ps.118.8.
SUCCESSION
Advancing years brought to an end a distinguished, eventful and chequered life. There is something final about the following words, and they are a cause for reflection: “So David slept with his fathers, and was buried in the city of David … Then sat Solomon upon the throne of David his father; and his kingdom was established greatly” 1Kgs.2.10,12. In summary, David was primarily a warrior king whereas Solomon’s reign was marked by peace. Both so beautifully prefigured our Lord Jesus; one spoke of “the sufferings of Christ” and the other of “the glory that should follow” 1Pet.1.11.
CONCLUSION
In our meditation we have attempted to provide a balanced overview of the reign of David; we have touched upon some of his mountain-peak experiences but also on less honourable moments. We have drawn attention to them with heaviness of heart but with a desire that we might learn and benefit from them. Much lies untouched in this chapter; it has not been possible to deal in any detailed way with all of David’s movements and the hardships he encountered, or with those who ministered to him, such as Barzillai and the others mentioned in 2Samuel chapter 17. From these we can draw precious and practical lessons. The main thrust of the chapter has been to focus on David himself. We salute the memory of the one who occupies such a prominent place in our Bible as the shepherd sovereign, the warrior king and ‘‘the sweet psalmist of Israel’’ 2Sam.23.1. Those vivid pictures of our Lord Jesus Christ in His suffering are heart-warming, and may we all be drawn to Him in fresh adoration and devotion: the One Who lived a totally unblemished life, and Who is, in every sense of the word, the Lord’s Anointed.