How does David's kindness in 2 Samuel 9:5 reflect God's grace to us? Kindness Initiated by the King • 2 Samuel 9:5: “So King David had him brought from Lo-debar, from the house of Machir son of Ammiel.” • David does the searching; Mephibosheth does nothing to attract royal attention. • God likewise takes the first step toward us—Luke 19:10; Romans 5:8. Grace to the Helpless • Mephibosheth is “lame in both feet” (2 Samuel 9:13); he cannot improve his condition. • We are “dead in our trespasses” (Ephesians 2:1-5). Only divine grace can lift the helpless. Restoration and Inheritance • 2 Samuel 9:7: “I will restore to you all the land that belonged to your grandfather Saul.” • Grace not only forgives; it restores what was lost—Joel 2:25; 1 Peter 1:3-4. Permanent Place at the Table • Four times in 2 Samuel 9, David promises Mephibosheth will “always eat at my table.” • God welcomes believers to continual fellowship—Revelation 3:20; John 14:2-3. Cost Absorbed by Another • David furnishes resources, servants, and provisions (2 Samuel 9:9-10). • Our seat at God’s table is purchased by Christ’s sacrifice—Isaiah 53:5; 2 Corinthians 8:9. Fear Replaced by Peace • “Do not be afraid” (2 Samuel 9:7). • Perfect love casts out fear—1 John 4:18; Romans 8:15. Lasting Covenant Loyalty • David’s kindness is grounded in covenant with Jonathan (1 Samuel 20:14-17). • God’s grace flows from His everlasting covenant in Christ—Hebrews 13:20-21. Living in Grace Today • Receive the King’s invitation; stop hiding in “Lo-debar” places of shame. • Rest at His table daily through Scripture and fellowship. • Reflect His kindness to others—Ephesians 4:32; Colossians 3:12-13. |