King David's Prayer and Acts

The Ark: Another Account

In 2 Samuel 6-7, there is another account of David bringing the ark into Jerusalem. The version in 2 Samuel is the same as in 1 Chronicles 13-16, except that it adds more details to the story of Michal's reaction to David. Michal told David that he had shamed himself in front of the servants. He replied that his dancing was for the Lord, and he would continue to worship God in whatever ways were genuine and pure, even if it would be looked down on by Michal or anyone else. He would make her more ashamed, but his worship of God would be respected by the servants. As a result of her attitude, Michal never had any children.

God Makes a Covenant with David

King David lived in the house that God had given him. David pointed out to Nathan (a prophet) that David lived in a house, but the ark was in a tent. This seemed unfitting to David, and he thought that he should build a house for God (a temple). Nathan told David that God was with him, and to do what was in his heart. That night, however, God told Nathan to go to David and tell him not to build a house for God. God explained to Nathan that when David's time was done, God would raise a great king from David's offspring, and he would make an excellent house for God. Nathan obeyed and relayed God's message to David.

David said a great prayer of thanks to God. He thanked God for all He had done for him, his house, and Israel. He promised that he and his house would serve God forever.

David Subdues His Enemies

King David subdued many of his enemies. He defeated the Philistines. He conquered Moab, and the Moabites became Israel's servants. David also defeated Hadadezer, the son of Rehob, king of Zobah. When the Syrians came to help Hadadezer, David crushed them, too, making them servants as well. Toi, king of Hamath, heard of these great victories of David. He sent his son Joram. Joram gave gifts of gold, silver, and bronze to David. David committed these gifts to God. David also defeated the Edomites. God gave David victory wherever he went.

David's Administration

David was king of all of Israel, and he administered justice to his people. Joab was the commander of David's army. Jehoshaphat was the recorder, Zadok and Ahimelech were priests, and Seraiah was the secretary. Benaiah was over the Cherethites and the Pelethites, and David's sons were priests.

David and Mephibosheth

David asked a man named Ziba if there were any that remained from the house of Saul. Ziba had been a servant in the house of Saul. Ziba told David that one of Jonathan's sons had survived and was crippled in his feet. Jonathan's surviving son was named Mephibosheth. David summoned Mephibosheth to him, and when he came to David, he fell on his face and paid his respects to King David. David told Mephibosheth not to be afraid and that he wanted to show Mephibosheth kindness for the sake of his father, Jonathan. David told Mephibosheth that he would eat at David's table, and all of the lands of Saul would be given to him.

Summary

Another account of the ark's journey from Kiriath-jearim to Jerusalem provides more insight into what happened between Michal and David. God revealed to the prophet Nathan that David's offspring would build an excellent house for God one day. God made a covenant with David, and David thanked God. God gave David great success over his enemies. David cared for Jonathan's son, Mephibosheth.

Application and Reflection

Application

Word gets around. When David defeated Hadadezer, word spread to the Syrians. They came to help Hadadezer, which delivered them right into David's hands. Toi, king of Hamath, also heard about David's battles and victories, and he was grateful for what King David had done. A good reputation is essential. King David established a reputation as a ruler and a warrior during his lifetime.

Reflection

David had an excellent reputation. He made mistakes, as we all do, but overall, his reputation was sound. As a young person, you are building your reputation. Do you want a reputation that you and your family can be proud of? More importantly, do you want a reputation of being someone that honors God and does what is right?