A Promise is a Promise

Sunday, March 16, 2008
Read 2 Samuel 8:1 through 10:19.

(9:8) Mephibosheth bowed down and said, “What is your servant that you take an interest in a dead dog like me?” (HCSB)

Before I address Mephibosheth--and if you think his name is hard to say, you ought to try spelling it--I have to ask you a secondary question. Have you noticed all the warring, conflict, and death we've been reading about? Before David, Israel was formidable enough under Saul, but under David the military might of Israel reached a new level. His victories in war were incredible, as was the death toll he produced. You know, I accept the justice of God in dealing with those who oppose Him in this way, but admittedly I am moved by all the death. Understand that I'm not doubting or questioning God, but neither do I know where I'm going with this. I suppose it's enough not to gloss over chapters like these, for at the very least they give testimony that the time will always come when opposing God will carry a price.

But to more pleasant matters, did you notice how David treated Saul's grandson and Jonathan's son, Mephibosheth? Long before, David had made a promise to his dearest friend Jonathan, to show kindness to those in Saul's family that remained alive when he reigned. It should touch us to see how David welcomed Mephibosheth, even into his own family. But there's more here for us than mere goosebumps. Let me ask you to read again chapter nine... what do you notice about how David related to Mephibosheth that compares to how God has related to us in Christ?

Remember the great need you have of the grace and assistance of God. You should never lose sight of him--not for a moment.
Andrew Murray