What does "show him the kindness of God" teach about our relationships? Scripture Focus 2 Samuel 9:3—“The king asked, ‘Is there not still someone of the house of Saul to whom I may show the kindness of God?’ ” Setting the Scene • Years after Saul’s death, David is firmly on Israel’s throne. • Customarily a new king eliminated the previous dynasty to secure power. • Instead, David intentionally searches for a descendant of Saul—his former enemy—to bless him because of his covenant with Jonathan (1 Samuel 20:14-17). Defining “the Kindness of God” • Not ordinary courtesy; it mirrors God’s own covenant love (Hebrew: ḥesed). • Active, loyal, sacrificial goodness that refuses to keep score. • Rooted in God’s character: “The LORD, abounding in loving devotion and faithfulness” (Exodus 34:6). Relationship Lessons • Pursue, don’t wait – David seeks Mephibosheth; he doesn’t wait to be asked (Luke 15:4). • Show favor to the undeserving – Mephibosheth belongs to a rival house and is lame—yet receives royal kindness (Romans 5:8). • Honor covenant commitments – Jonathan was gone, but the promise lived on. Our words matter long-term (Psalm 15:4b). • Lift others to your table – Four times the chapter says Mephibosheth “ate at the king’s table” (vv. 7, 10, 11, 13). True kindness invites people into close fellowship (Hebrews 13:1-2). • Provide practical restoration – David returns Saul’s fields, ensuring Mephibosheth’s livelihood (James 2:15-17). • Reflect God’s heart, not cultural norms – Ancient monarchs eliminated threats; David extends mercy. Followers of Christ march to God’s drumbeat, not the world’s (Romans 12:2). New-Testament Echoes • Ephesians 4:32—“Be kind and tenderhearted to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” • Luke 6:35—“Love your enemies, do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return.” • 1 John 4:19—“We love because He first loved us.” Putting It into Practice • Ask, “Whom can I seek out today to display God-centered kindness?” • Revisit promises or commitments you’ve made; keep them even if inconvenient. • Invite someone sidelined or forgotten into your “table”—your home, lunch hour, small group. • Offer tangible help that restores dignity: job leads, resources, mentorship. The Bigger Picture David’s act is a living parable of the gospel: the King seeks crippled sinners, brings them from “Lo-Debar” (a barren place) to the palace, and seats them at His table as sons (John 1:12). Let His kindness shape every relationship we touch today. |
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