Day 140 – 2 Samuel 15:13-14

Scripture Review

2 Samuel 15:13-14

"And there came a messenger to David, saying, The hearts of the men of Israel are after Absalom."

(2 Samuel 15:13)

The messenger comes to David with hard news to swallow. He does not say only a few men have followed Absalom. He says, "The hearts of the men of Israel are after Absalom." That means Absalom's plan has worked. The chariots, the horses, the fifty men, the early mornings at the gate, the false concern for justice, the kisses, and the flattery have all done their damage. The people's affection has been stolen away from David. David had led Israel in battle. He had brought the Ark to Jerusalem with rejoicing. He had received the covenant promise of God. He had shown kindness to Mephibosheth for Jonathan's sake. Yet now many hearts are turning after his own son.

"And David said unto all his servants that were with him at Jerusalem, Arise, and let us flee; for we shall not else escape from Absalom: make speed to depart, lest he overtake us suddenly, and bring evil upon us, and smite the city with the edge of the sword."

(2 Samuel 15:14)

David does not sit and debate. He acts quickly. He does not try to save face by gathering everyone together and saying, "I am still the king, and I will not move." He says, "Arise, and let us flee." David understands the danger. If Absalom comes suddenly, David's servants may not escape, and Jerusalem may be struck "with the edge of the sword." David is thinking about more than his throne. He is thinking about the people with him and the city itself.

He knows Absalom is willing to risk the nation to gain the throne. David is willing to leave the throne to spare the city. Absalom uses people for his ambition. David moves quickly to protect people from destruction. This is the visible submission of David accepting the weight of what has come upon his house. Nathan had warned him that the sword would not depart from his house. Now the sword is moving toward Jerusalem through Absalom's rebellion.