Grasp the Gospel — Bible Comprehension Quizzes

2 Samuel 15 Devotional

The King Who Went Out Weeping

“But if He should say, ‘I do not delight in you,’ then here I am; let Him do to me whatever seems good to Him.””2 Samuel 15:26 (BSB)

Absalom stands by the road to the city gate, flattering people's complaints and kissing those who bow to him, until he has stolen the hearts of Israel (15:6). Then he declares himself king at Hebron. He flees Jerusalem with his household, and as he crosses the Kidron and climbs the Mount of Olives, he weeps with his head covered and his feet bare (15:23, 15:30).

The chapter is full of surprising loyalty. Ittai, a foreigner newly arrived, refuses to turn back and vows to be wherever the king is, in life or in death (15:21). And David shows a deep surrender. He sends the ark back to the city and tells Zadok that if he finds favor with the LORD, God will bring him back, and if not, the LORD may do with him whatever seems good (15:25-26). Jesus later crossed the Kidron Valley on the night he was betrayed (John 18:1), a rejected King going out in sorrow. Whatever betrayal you face, you can place yourself in the same Father's hands.

To think about: What outcome are you gripping tightly that you could place in God's hands as David did?

About 2 Samuel 15: Absalom's Revolt and David's Flight

Absalom wins Israel's loyalty by flattery at the city gate, then has himself proclaimed king at Hebron with Ahithophel's support. David flees Jerusalem in tears, accepts Ittai's loyalty, sends the ark back, and sends Hushai back to defeat Ahithophel's advice.

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