View 2nd Samuel 19 in the note window.
oab causes David to cease mourning. (1-8) David returns to
Jordan. (9-15) He pardons Shimei. (16-23) Mephibosheth excused.
(24-30) David's parting with Barzillai. (31-39) Israel quarrels
with Judah. (40-43)
Verses 1-8: To continue to lament for so bad a son as Absalom, was very
unwise, and very unworthy. Joab censures David, but not with
proper respect and deference to his sovereign. A plain case may
be fairly pleaded with those above us, and they may be reproved
for what they do amiss, but it must not be with rudeness and
insolence. Yet David took the reproof and the counsel, prudently
and mildly. Timely giving way, usually prevents the ill effects
of mistaken measures.
Verses 9-15: God's providence, by the priests' persuasions and Amasa's
interest, brought the people to resolve the recall of the king.
David stirred not till he received this invitation. Our Lord
Jesus will rule in those that invite him to the throne in their
hearts, and not till he is invited. He first bows the heart, and
makes it willing in the day of his power, then rules in the
midst of his enemies, (Ps 110:2,3).
Verses 16-23: Those who now slight and abuse the Son of David, would be
glad to make their peace when he shall come in his glory; but it
will be too late. Shimei lost no time. His abuse had been
personal, and with the usual right feeling of good men, David
could more easily forgive it.
Verses 24-30: David recalls the forfeiture of Mephibosheth's estate;
and he expressed joy for the king's return. A good man
contentedly bears his own losses, while he sees Israel in peace,
and the Son of David exalted.
Verses 31-39: Barzillai thought he had done himself honour in doing the
king any service. Thus, when the saints shall be called to
inherit the kingdom, they will be amazed at the recompence being
so very far beyond the service, (Mt 25:37). A good man would not
go any where to be burdensome; or, will rather be so to his own
house than to another's. It is good for all, but especially
becomes old people, to think and speak much of dying. The grave
is ready for me, let me go and get ready for it.
Verses 40-43: The men of Israel though themselves despised, and the
fiercer words of the men of Judah produced very bad effects.
Much evil might be avoided, if men would watch against pride,
and remember that a soft answer turneth away wrath. Though we
have right and reason on our side, if we speak it with
fierceness, God is displeased.
