What can we learn about compassion from David's treatment of the Egyptian? Scene Set in Scripture “Now his men found an Egyptian in the field and brought him to David. They gave him water to drink and food to eat — a piece of a cake of pressed figs and two clusters of raisins. After he had eaten, he revived, for he had not eaten any food or drunk any water for three days and three nights.” (1 Samuel 30:11-12) Compassion Interrupts the Mission • David is in hot pursuit of Amalekite raiders who have kidnapped his own wives and children (30:6-10). • Yet he stops for a half-dead stranger. • True compassion allows godly priorities to override personal urgency. – Compare Luke 10:33-34: the Samaritan “came upon him, and when he saw him, he had compassion.” – Proverbs 19:17: “Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the LORD.” Meeting Physical Needs First • David gives water, bread, figs, raisins — basic, restorative, immediate. • No interrogation until after the man recovers (30:13). • James 2:15-16 warns against offering only words; David provides tangible help. • Compassion is practical, not theoretical. Compassion Beyond Boundaries • The man is an Egyptian slave of the Amalekites (likely an enemy). • Exodus 22:21 commands kindness to foreigners; David obeys the heart of that law. • Matthew 5:44 calls believers to love enemies; David models this centuries earlier. • Galatians 3:28 reminds us that compassion is not limited by ethnicity, status, or allegiance. The Blessing that Followed • After kindness, the Egyptian guides David to the raiders’ camp (30:15-16). • Compassion becomes the key to full restoration of all that was lost (30:18-19). • Luke 6:38: “Give, and it will be given to you… For with the measure you use, it will be measured back to you.” Portrait of God’s Own Heart • David, the shepherd-king, reflects the Lord who “heals the brokenhearted” (Psalm 147:3). • Psalm 103:13: “As a father has compassion on his children, so the LORD has compassion on those who fear Him.” • When David shows mercy, he mirrors the coming Messiah, “moved with compassion” (Mark 1:41). Take-Away Principles for Today – Notice the hurting, even when busy. – Meet immediate needs before asking for information or loyalty. – Extend kindness across cultural and relational lines. – Trust God to work unexpected good through simple acts of mercy. – Remember that every display of compassion is a living testimony of the God we serve. |
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