2 Samuel Series

The Lord ordains the defeat of Absalom

2 Samuel 17-18

From our scripture reading this morning, even that greatest Babylonian king Nebuchadnezzar learns that it is God who ordains kings and kingdoms, and he is able to bring low or exalt whom He alone ordains. And human pride, while opposed to God, is also a malleable tool in the hands of that same God, to accomplish His purposes and plans. In our text of 2 Samuel 17 – 18 this morning, there are many and tremendous events, human decisions and emotions, and great lessons and observations we might make. But there is one sentence that may go unnoticed for its brevity, but is the overarching and controlling fact behind the scene: And that is found in 17:14. Thomas Brooks observed, The sovereignty of God is that golden sceptre in his hand by which he will make all bow, either by his word or by his works, by his mercies or by his judgements. And king David will benefit from His sovereign mercies here, while Absolom be struck by His sovereign judgments.

And in that context we as believers and as the sons and daughters of our High and Sovereign King, the God of heaven can take comfort in how His rulership is mediated on our behalf and for our ultimate good, as the apostle Paul revealed to the Roman believers, in Romans 8:28-29. Brooks again, God has in himself all power to defend you, all wisdom to direct you, all mercy to pardon you, all grace to enrich you, all righteousness to clothe you, all goodness to supply you, and all happiness to crown you.

Let us therefore attend and attune our hearts to the Word of our sovereign and good God this morning.