In 2 Samuel 9:3 David asked Ziba “Is there no one still left of the house of Saul to whom I can show God’s kindness?” David was seeking to show kindness for two reasons – his friendship with Jonathan and his love for God.
David loved the Lord with all his heart. Even when he failed the Lord, allowing sin to rule his action, he would repent and return to the Lord. Because of his obedience, the Lord granted him favor, forgiveness, mercy and compassion. Because of God’s love for him, David understood that love must rule in his heart. He must follow the example of the Lord.
David and Jonathan had a bond, a covenant. David turned to Jonathan in those dark days when he was scrambling from cave to cave seeking to escape Saul. Jonathan provided David with strength and encouragement. He went to David in the Desert of Ziph to help him gain strength in God (1 Samuel 23:16) He stuck by David, risking his own life. Jonathan remained faithful to David until the end of his life.
It was their strong bond of friendship and his love for God, that compelled David to show kindness to the remaining family members of Jonathan. Even though Saul had attempted to kill him, David still sought to show kindness and compassion.
I challenge you as well as myself to follow the example of David. Let us have mercy, kindness and compassion to overcome the wrongs done to us. Allow the power of friendship and love of the Lord to overpower the darkness of hate and vengeance. Hate and vengeance will build a wall between you and God. They will negatively infect you as well as those around you. This world needs friendship and love. Let us work to spread and infuse this world with love and friendship.
Powerful message, great reminder. Blessings to you today and always
Wonderful message, sometimes we lose sight of forgiveness.