“And David sent messengers unto the men of Jabeshgilead, and said unto them, Blessed be ye of the LORD, that ye have shewed this kindness unto your lord, even unto Saul, and have buried him.”
Context:The verse is part of the narrative in 2 Samuel that describes the aftermath of King Saul’s death. David has already been anointed as the future king of Israel, but at this point, he has not yet ascended to the throne. Saul and his sons were killed in battle against the Philistines, and David receives the news of their deaths.
David’s response:Instead of rejoicing over the death of Saul, his adversary, David demonstrates his respect for the position of kingship and the anointing of the Lord on Saul’s life. David sends messengers to the men of Jabeshgilead, a city in the territory of Israel, and praises them for their kindness in giving Saul an honorable burial.
Lessons we can learn:
- Respect for authority: Despite the challenges and conflicts David had with Saul, he still recognized and respected the position Saul held as the anointed king of Israel. This teaches us the importance of honoring and respecting those in authority, even if we disagree with them or face difficulties under their leadership.
- Kindness and forgiveness: David acknowledges the act of kindness shown by the men of Jabeshgilead in burying Saul. This demonstrates David’s forgiving and gracious nature, as he doesn’t hold grudges against those who were loyal to Saul. It reminds us of the importance of forgiveness and extending kindness to others, even in difficult circumstances.
- Gratitude to God: David attributes the kindness of the men of Jabeshgilead to the Lord’s blessing. He recognizes that it was the Lord who prompted them to show such respect and kindness to Saul. This teaches us the importance of acknowledging God’s hand in every situation and giving thanks to Him for His blessings and provision.
Application:
- Respect and honor those in authority:In our lives, we may encounter leaders or authority figures whom we may find challenging or disagree with. However, it is essential to maintain a respectful attitude towards them, recognizing the positions they hold and the authority vested in them.
- Extend kindness and forgiveness:Just as David extended kindness and forgiveness to those who were loyal to Saul, we should seek to display a forgiving and gracious attitude towards others, even when they may have wronged us. By doing so, we reflect the character of Christ and foster a spirit of unity and reconciliation.
- Acknowledge God’s blessings:In all circumstances, whether positive or negative, it is vital to acknowledge and give thanks to God for His blessings and provision. Recognizing God’s hand in our lives helps us cultivate a grateful heart and maintain a right perspective, even in challenging situations.
Remember to read the surrounding verses and consult commentaries or study materials for a more comprehensive understanding of the passage.
