Grasp the Gospel — Bible Comprehension Quizzes

2 Samuel 10 Devotional

The Outcome Belongs to the LORD

“Be strong and let us fight bravely for our people and for the cities of our God. May the LORD do what is good in His sight.””2 Samuel 10:12 (BSB)

David means kindness. When the Ammonite king dies, he sends men to comfort the new king Hanun, as Hanun's father had been kind to him (10:2). But Hanun's officials convince him it is a spying mission, and the envoys are sent home with half their beards shaved and their garments cut short (10:4). David gently tells his humiliated men to stay in Jericho until their beards grow back (10:5).

The insult turns into war, and Joab faces enemies on two fronts. He divides the army with his brother Abishai, and each agrees to come to the other's rescue. Then Joab says they must be strong and fight bravely for their people and the cities of their God, and the LORD will do what seems good to him (10:11-12). Effort and trust stand side by side. Proverbs says the horse is made ready for battle, but victory comes from the LORD (Proverbs 21:31). Full effort can go into what lies in front of you, and the outcome can be left with him.

To think about: What task in front of you needs your full effort today, and what outcome do you need to leave with God?

About 2 Samuel 10: War with the Ammonites and Arameans

David sends envoys to console the new Ammonite king Hanun, but Hanun disgraces them on his officials' advice. The Ammonites hire Aramean troops, and Joab and Abishai defeat both armies while trusting the outcome to God. David then crushes the regrouped Arameans, whose vassal kings submit to Israel.

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