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Power, Betrayal, and Trust: Lessons from David's Darkest Hour
- Be God's Glory
- Mar 20
- 9 min read
Welcome to Day 85 of The Glory Team Bible Reading plan and we are continuing the book of 2 Samuel. In 2 Samuel 15-17 the story of King David’s life takes a dramatic turn. Absalom, David’s son, begins a rebellion, gaining the support of many Israelites and forcing David to flee Jerusalem. The narrative unfolds with intense drama, betrayal, and strategic decisions. David’s trust in God is tested as he faces the heartbreaking challenge of dealing with the betrayal of those closest to him. While Absalom’s conspiracy grows, David relies on God’s protection, wisdom, and guidance. These chapters teach us about leadership, the consequences of sin, the power of loyalty, and the strength required to endure in times of betrayal and trial.
2 Samuel Chapter 15: Absalom plotting to take the throne from his father, David. Over time, Absalom secretly wins the hearts of the people of Israel by positioning himself as a more sympathetic and approachable leader. The rebellion reaches its peak when Absalom declares himself king in Hebron, and David is forced to flee Jerusalem with his loyal followers. In his flight, David mourns the betrayal of his son and receives support from some, including a loyal priest named Zadok, who provides him with vital spiritual support. David’s departure from Jerusalem marks the beginning of a painful trial that tests his faith, leadership, and the strength of his trust in God’s plan.
2 Samuel Chapter 16: Shows David’s growing distress as he continues his flight from Jerusalem. On the way, David encounters several individuals who either oppose or support him. One of the key moments in this chapter is the encounter with Shimei, a man who curses David and accuses him of causing the downfall of Saul’s dynasty. David’s response to Shimei is one of restraint and humility, showing his willingness to accept whatever judgment God allows. Meanwhile, Absalom’s rebellion continues to gain strength as he consolidates his position in Jerusalem. The chapter highlights David’s trust in God despite his suffering and the ongoing political chaos.
2 Samuel Chapter 17: Focuses on the deepening conspiracy against David and the strategic maneuvering of both David and Absalom’s forces. Hushai, one of David’s loyalists, offers counter-advice to Absalom, seeking to delay Absalom’s attack in order to give David time to regroup. Absalom, deceived by Hushai’s counsel, agrees to delay the attack, which ultimately gives David the upper hand. The chapter demonstrates the importance of wisdom, timing, and God’s intervention in the midst of conflict. It also portrays the challenges of leadership when trust is broken, and the heavy burden of making decisions that affect the future of the nation.
Origin & Meaning of the Name:
The book of 2 Samuel is the continuation of Israel’s history, primarily focusing on the reign of King David and the establishment of his kingdom. The name "Samuel" comes from the Hebrew (Shemu’el), meaning "God has heard" or "Name of God." Though Samuel himself dies in 1 Samuel 25, the book of 2 Samuel retains his name because it continues the narrative of Israel’s transition from judges to monarchy, a process that Samuel played a significant role in initiating.
Purpose of the Book:
The primary purpose of 2 Samuel is to document the rise and reign of David, Israel’s greatest king, showing how God establishes his covenant with David, securing his dynasty. The book highlights David’s victories, his failures (such as his sin with Bathsheba), and his deep repentance. It also demonstrates God’s justice and mercy while reinforcing the theme of divine sovereignty in establishing Israel’s leadership.
Authorship & Sources Supporting the Author:
The authorship of 2 Samuel is traditionally attributed to the prophet Nathan and the seer Gad, as suggested by 1 Chronicles 29:29, which states:
"As for the events of King David’s reign, from beginning to end, they are written in the records of Samuel the seer, Nathan the prophet, and Gad the seer."
This passage indicates that multiple prophetic figures documented the history of David’s reign. Jewish tradition, as found in the Talmud (Baba Bathra 14b-15a), also supports this view, suggesting that Samuel wrote 1 Samuel until his death, while Nathan and Gad completed the history, which includes 2 Samuel.
Additionally, archaeological sources and ancient Jewish historical writings, such as those of Flavius Josephus (Antiquities of the Jews), acknowledge Nathan and Gad as contributors to David’s historical record. However, since 2 Samuel was likely compiled later using various prophetic sources, the final editor remains uncertain.
Key People:
David – The central figure of the book, Israel’s second king, who unifies the nation, establishes Jerusalem as the capital, and receives God’s covenant.
Joab – David’s military commander, known for his strategic brilliance but also for his ruthless actions, including the murder of Abner and Absalom.
Abner – Saul’s former general who initially supports Ish-bosheth but later defects to David before being assassinated by Joab.
Ish-bosheth – Saul’s son who is briefly king over Israel before being betrayed and killed.
Nathan – The prophet who delivers God’s covenant promise to David and later rebukes him for his sin with Bathsheba.
Bathsheba – The woman with whom David commits adultery, leading to immense consequences. She later becomes Solomon’s mother.
Uriah the Hittite – Bathsheba’s husband, who is unjustly killed in battle due to David’s scheme.
Absalom – David’s rebellious son who leads a coup against him but ultimately perishes.
Mephibosheth – Jonathan’s crippled son, whom David honors out of loyalty to his late friend.
Zadok and Abiathar – Priests who serve during David’s reign and play significant roles in maintaining religious order.
Conclusion
2 Samuel is a powerful testament to God’s faithfulness, the consequences of sin, and the fulfillment of His promises through David’s lineage, which ultimately leads to Jesus Christ (Matthew 1:1).
What is God's Name in these Chapters?
In this portion of our journey we want to dive deep into the character of God described in His name. By identifying who God is, we can further relate to Him personally and build a stronger relationship and connection with Our Father.
Names are important. They give significance to places, people, and things. We identify with so much based off what it's name is. This is considerably notable when it comes to the names of God.
"Jehovah" is considered a Latinized version of the Hebrew name "Yahweh" (represented by the consonants YHWH) where the vowels of the Hebrew word "Adonai" (meaning "my Lord") were added to the Tetragrammaton (YHWH) when pronounced by Jewish readers who avoided saying the sacred name directly; essentially, Christian scholars combined the consonants of YHWH with the vowels of Adonai to create the pronunciation "Jehovah" in the Latin alphabet.
Looking for the Names of God from the previous chapters? Due to the overwhelming amount of names we had to dedicate a special place for them for the sake of space. Click the link to see them:
In 2 Samuel 15, we see the character of God reflected in His sovereignty and justice. David faces betrayal from his son Absalom, and in his suffering, he turns to God in prayer and trust. Despite the turmoil, David’s reliance on God’s will reveals a deep acknowledgment of divine authority. God’s providence is evident as David submits to His judgment, understanding that God’s plan will prevail.
The Hebrew name of God that stands out in this chapter is Elohim which emphasizes God’s power and might. Through David’s trust in Elohim, we learn the importance of surrendering our burdens to God, especially in moments of distress. The lesson taught in this chapter is that even in betrayal and uncertainty, we can find strength in God’s sovereign will and perfect plan.
In 2 Samuel 16, In 2 Samuel 16, God’s character is portrayed through His justice and omniscience. As Shimei curses David, and Ziba deceives him, God remains fully aware of the truth. David refrains from retaliation, acknowledging that God may be using the situation to humble him or teach him patience. This restraint highlights God’s ability to work through adversity for a greater purpose.
A significant Hebrew name of God in this chapter is Yahweh, representing God’s covenant-keeping nature. David’s recognition of Yahweh’s control demonstrates humility and trust. The lesson from this chapter is that even when we face unjust accusations or hardships, we can rely on God’s justice and trust in His timing.
In 2 Samuel 17, In 2 Samuel 17, God’s character is shown through His wisdom and protection. While Absalom seeks counsel to destroy David, God intervenes by using Hushai’s advice to frustrate the plans of Ahithophel. This divine intervention highlights God’s ability to safeguard His people and ensure His will is accomplished.
The Hebrew name of God reflected in this chapter is Jehovah Jireh, meaning "The Lord Will Provide." Through His provision of protection and guidance, God demonstrates His care for David. The lesson conveyed is that God is our ultimate protector and provider, working behind the scenes to bring His plans to fruition, even when circumstances seem dire.
Christ in Every Book of the Bible
Christ is the theme throughout the Bible. From Genesis to Revelation, God reveals His Son, Jesus Christ.
Christ is the Seed of the woman Genesis 3:14 , He is the Passover Lamb Exodus 12:3, The Atoning Sacrifice Leviticus 17:11, The Smitten Rock Numbers 20:8, 11, The Faithful Prophet Deuteronomy 18:18, Christ is the Captain of the Lord's Host Joshua 5:15, The Divine Deliverer Judges 2:18, The Kinsman Redeemer Ruth 3:12, Christ is the anticipated as the Anointed One,1 Samuel 2:10, The Son of David 2 Samuel 7:14, The Coming King 1 & 2 Kings, Builder of the Temple 1 & 2 Chronicles (1 Chronicles 28:20), Ezra represents Christ as the Restorer of the Nation Ezra 6:14, 15, Nehemiah shows Him as the Restorer of the Temple Nehemiah 6:15, and Esther portrays Him as the Preserver of the Nation Ester 4:14, Christ is seen as the Living Redeemer Job 19:25, The Praise of Israel Psalm 150:6, The Wisdom of God Proverbs 8:22, 23, The Great Teacher Ecclesiastics 12:11, The Fairest of Ten Thousand Song of Solomon 5:10. Christ is the Suffering Servant Isaiah 53:11, The Maker of the New Covenant Jeremiah 31:31, The Man of Sorrows Lamentations 3:28-30, The Glory of God Ezekiel 43:2, The coming Messiah Daniel 9:25, The Lover of the Unfaithful Hosea 3:1, The Hope of Israel Joel 3:16, The Husbandman Amos 9:13, the Savior Obadiah 21, the Resurrected One Jonah 2:10, the Ruler in Israel Micah 5:2, the Avenger Nahum 2:1, the Holy God Habakkuk 1:13, the King of Israel Zephaniah 3:15, the Desire of Nations Haggai 2:7, the Righteous Branch Zechariah 3:8, and the Sun of Righteousness Malachi 4:2.
The King of the Jews Matthew 2:2, the Servant of the Lord Mark 10:45, the Son of Man Luke 19:10, and the Son of God John 1:1. Christ is the Ascended Lord Acts 1:10, the believer's Righteousness Romans 1:17, Sanctification 1 Corinthians 1:30, Sufficiency 2 Corinthians 12:9, and Liberty Galatians 2:4. He is the Exalted Head of the church Ephesians 1:22, the Christian's Joy Philippians 1:26, and the Fullness of Deity Colossians 2:9. In the Thessalonian epistles Christ is the believer's Comfort 1 Thessalonians 4:16, 17 and Glory 2 Thessalonians 1:12. The Christian's Preserver 1 Timothy 4:10, Rewarder 2 Timothy 4:8, Blessed Hope Titus 2:13, and Substitute Philemon 17. He is the High Priest Hebrews 4:15, the Giver of Wisdom James 1:5, the Rock 1 Peter 2:6, and Precious Promise 2 Peter 1:4. John represents Christ as the Life 1 John, the Truth 2 John, and the Way 3 John, Jude portrays Christ as the Advocate and Revelation shows Him as King of Kings and Lord of Lords Revelation 19:16. The whole Bible is literally all about Christ!
Questions:
Let's expand how these chapters expanded your faith and your relationship with God.
Questions About God's Character:
How does God’s sovereignty and justice manifest in David’s experiences in 2 Samuel 15-17?
In what ways does David’s reliance on God reflect God’s trustworthiness and power?
How is God’s wisdom demonstrated through His intervention in Absalom’s plans?
How does God’s patience and justice shape David’s responses to Shimei’s cursing?
How does God’s protection provide comfort and reassurance to David in these chapters?
What do these events reveal about God’s covenantal faithfulness to His people?
How can we apply God’s character traits, such as justice and mercy, in our own lives?
Questions About Themes:
How does the theme of divine intervention shape the narrative of 2 Samuel 15-17?
What role does human choice play alongside God’s sovereign will in these chapters?
How does the theme of humility and submission to God emerge in David’s actions?
In what ways do these chapters illustrate the consequences of rebellion against God?
How is God’s providence evident in both David’s suffering and protection?
What lessons about leadership and reliance on God can be drawn from David’s responses?
How does the theme of forgiveness and restraint play a role in David’s dealings with Shimei?
Reflective Application Questions:
When have you faced a situation where you had to trust in God’s justice and sovereignty?
How can you practice humility and patience when dealing with unfair treatment or false accusations?
In what ways can you seek God’s wisdom when facing difficult decisions?
How does acknowledging God as Jehovah Jireh influence your perspective in times of need?
What practical steps can you take to surrender control and trust God’s plan?
How can David’s example inspire you to respond with restraint and faith during conflicts?
In what areas of your life can you recognize God’s protection and provision at work?
These questions can help deepen understanding of the themes of these chapters, while encouraging trust in God's sovereignty, justice, faithfulness, and timing. We hope thoughts to these questions invite you to reflect on your own journeys, grow in faith, and understand more about God's nature.
Reference Guides:
Life Application Study Guide
A Popular Survey of the Old Testament by Norman L. Geisler
The Power of God's Names by Tony Evans
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