Verses 1-21: Here was a wonderful effect of Divine Providence blinding
Absalom's mind and influencing his heart, that he could not rest
in Ahithophel's counsel, and that he should desire Hushai's
advice. But there is no contending with that God who can arm a
man against himself, and destroy him by his own mistakes and
passions. Ahithophel's former counsel was followed, for God
intended to correct David; but his latter counsel was not
followed, for God meant not to destroy him. He can overrule all
counsels. Whatever wisdom or help any man employs or affords,
the success is from God alone, who will not let his people
perish.
Verses 22-29: Ahithophel hanged himself for vexation that his counsel
was not followed. That will break a proud man's heart which will
not break a humble man's sleep. He thought himself in danger,
concluding, that, because his counsel was not followed,
Absalom's cause would fail; and to prevent a possible public
execution, he does justice upon himself. Thus the breath is
stopped, and the head laid low, from which nothing could be
expected but mischief. Absalom chased his father. But observe
how God sometimes makes up to his people that comfort from
strangers, which they are disappointed of in their own families.
Our King needs not our help; but he assures us, that what we do
for the least of his brethren, who are sick, poor, and
destitute, shall be accepted and recompensed as if done to
himself
hithophel's counsel overthrown. (1-21) He hangs himself,
Absalom pursues David. (22-29)