2 Samuel 16 · Grade 4

Repay Me Good

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Read and Think

As David fled, Ziba came with food and a story. He said Mephibosheth was waiting in Jerusalem. He said Mephibosheth hoped to get back his grandfather's kingdom. David gave Ziba all that was Mephibosheth's. He did not hear Mephibosheth's side. Later we will see that Ziba's story may not be true.

Next Shimei, of Saul's house, cursed David, calling him a man of blood and throwing stones. Abishai offered to kill him. David refused. He said that if his own son was seeking his life, he should not be surprised by this Benjamite. David chose to leave the matter with God, hoping that the Lord would see his distress and repay him good for the cursing.

In Jerusalem, Hushai greeted Absalom as king. Absalom asked why he did not go with his friend. Hushai said he would serve the one the Lord and Israel had chosen. Then Absalom asked Ahithophel for advice. People treated his advice as if they had asked the word of God. But his advice to Absalom was evil. It was meant to end all hope of peace with David.

Show What You Know

What did David do without hearing Mephibosheth's side?
What did Shimei call David?
Why did David refuse to let Abishai kill Shimei?
How was Ahithophel's counsel treated in those days?

Think About It

David did not strike back at Shimei. How can you answer unkind words without returning evil?
David made a quick judgment about Mephibosheth. Why is it wise to hear both sides before deciding?

Memory Verse

It may be that Yahweh will look on the wrong done to me, and that Yahweh will repay me good for the cursing of me today.”

2 Samuel 16:12 (WEB)

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Prayer

Dear God, thank You for watching over me. Help me . Amen.

Take It Home

For families: talk about these together.

How does trusting God's justice help us not take revenge?
Why was Ahithophel's advice so dangerous?