2 Samuel 9:11 “Then Ziba said to the king, “According to all that my lord the king has commanded his servant, so will your servant do.” “As for Mephibosheth,” said the king, “he shall eat at my table like one of the king’s sons.”
One of my favorite Old Testament stories is found in 2 Samuel 9 where King David demonstrates with real actions his kindness toward a man by the name of Mephibosheth. Mephibosheth is the son of Jonathan and the grandson of the former king, King Saul. In so many ways Mephibosheth was a political enemy that should be killed, not shown kindness. Yet David is going to do the unthinkable and show loving- kindness to him
I like to call 2 Samuel 9 an Old Testament picture of a New Testament saint. Mephibosheth represents the lost sinner who is unable to do anything for themselves and King David is a picture of God who will reach out to His enemy and extend grace and mercy. You might want to read the entire chapter as it only has 13 verses.
The verse we consider has Mephibosheth’s servant Ziba agreeing to David’s commands or terms. Ziba and his family along with other servants will make sure Mephibosheth and his possessions are cared for.
Then King David does what may seem to be the unthinkable. He says that Mephibosheth will be eating at his table like one of the king’s sons. The grandson of the former king who saw David as an enemy and who may very well be thinking he should be the king is now going to be sitting at the king’s table as one of his sons. This is kindness in action, and it is what David wanted to do as the chapter starts out. (2 Sam. 9:1 “Now David said, “Is there still anyone who is left of the house of Saul, that I may show him kindness for Jonathan’s sake?”) His kindness included making Mephibosheth part of his family and by having him at his table they would be able to have fellowship. By instructing Ziba to take care of his possessions under the authority of the king Mephibosheth has a brighter future.
Friends, we are Mephibosheth. God has shown us kindness and in our acceptance of Jesus Christ we have forgiveness, become part of the family of God, enjoy sweet fellowship with God and we have a very bright future in front of us.
Ponder the kindness of God toward you.
Continue Strong reflecting on your new relationship with God,
And remember to DATE The Word!