What can we learn about loyalty from the soldier's actions in 2 Samuel 18:10? Verse spotlight “ When a man saw him, he told Joab, ‘I saw Absalom hanging in an oak tree.’ ” (2 Samuel 18:10) Setting the scene • Absalom’s rebellion has led to open battle. • David charged his commanders, “Deal gently with the young man Absalom for my sake” (2 Samuel 18:5). • One unnamed soldier discovers Absalom helpless in a tree and reports to Joab instead of striking. Marks of loyalty in the soldier’s action • Immediate reporting—he runs straight to his superior, Joab, respecting military order. • Obedience to the king—by withholding violence, he honors David’s explicit command (vv. 5, 12). • Integrity over reward—later he says, “Even if a thousand shekels of silver were weighed out into my hands, I would not raise my hand against the king’s son” (v. 12). • Fear of God and king—he understands that violating the king’s word would bring judgment (v. 13). Lessons for us today • Loyalty is active: it seeks proper channels rather than acting impulsively. • True allegiance submits to authority even when personal gain is possible (cf. Romans 13:1–2). • Faithfulness shows in the small moment—choosing righteousness in a single decision can shape a larger outcome. • Love and obedience are intertwined: “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments” (John 14:15). Scripture echoes • David himself modeled restraint toward Saul (1 Samuel 24:6). • Warriors who rallied to David were “of one mind” with him (1 Chronicles 12:38). • “Loving devotion and faithfulness guard a king” (Proverbs 20:28). Takeaways • Biblical loyalty is measured by obedience to rightful authority and God’s revealed word. • Refusing to advance self-interest at another’s expense demonstrates covenant faithfulness. • The unnamed soldier’s choice reminds believers that loyalty often speaks loudest in unseen, decisive moments. |
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