“And he bowed himself, and said, What is thy servant, that thou shouldest look upon such a dead dog as I am?”
This verse is a part of the story of David and Mephibosheth. To fully understand its significance, it’s important to provide some context.
In 2 Samuel 9, we find David, who has become king of Israel, expressing his desire to show kindness to anyone from the house of Saul for Jonathan’s sake. Jonathan was David’s dear friend and Saul’s son, who had passed away.
David learns that there is a surviving member of Saul’s household named Mephibosheth. Mephibosheth was the son of Jonathan and the grandson of Saul. Unfortunately, he was crippled in both feet as a child, and he lived in a place called Lo-debar.
Upon discovering Mephibosheth’s whereabouts, David sends for him and brings him to the palace. This is where our verse comes in. When Mephibosheth arrives, he bows down before David and says, “What is thy servant, that thou shouldest look upon such a dead dog as I am?”
Mephibosheth’s words reflect his deep humility and unworthiness before the king. He sees himself as a lowly and insignificant person, using the metaphorical language of a “dead dog” to describe his own state. This self‑deprecating language demonstrates Mephibosheth’s understanding of his own brokenness and inability to deserve the king’s favor.
However, what happens next is a powerful example of God’s grace and the kindness of David. David, instead of treating Mephibosheth as a servant or disregarding him, responds with great compassion and love. He assures Mephibosheth that he will restore to him all the land that belonged to his grandfather Saul and that Mephibosheth will always have a place at the king’s table, eating with him as one of his own sons.
This passage teaches us several valuable lessons. Firstly, it reveals David’s heart of kindness and mercy, mirroring God’s character. David’s actions toward Mephibosheth reflect God’s grace extended to us, despite our unworthiness. Similarly, God shows us favour and love even when we see ourselves as undeserving, broken, or insignificant.
Secondly, Mephibosheth’s humility serves as an example to us. He acknowledges his own limitations and unworthiness, demonstrating the right posture of humility before God. It reminds us that we, too, should approach God with a humble heart, recognizing our need for His grace and mercy.
Lastly, this story illustrates the power of restoration. Mephibosheth’s life is transformed by David’s kindness, as he goes from living in Lo-debar, a place of desolation, to enjoying the blessings of the king’s table. In a similar way, God’s grace and restoration can transform our lives, taking us from a place of brokenness and despair to a place of abundance and fellowship with Him.
Conclusion:2 Samuel 9:8 reveals the humility of Mephibosheth and the grace and kindness of David. It teaches us important lessons about God’s character, our need for humility, and the power of restoration through His grace.
