Chapter 16

June 9, 2016

This chapter deals mostly with politics and intrigue as David is on the run from his son Absalom. Absalom has planned treason against his father and has him on the run. While running, David comes upon Ziba the servant of Mephibosheth.  Mephibosheth was the one that was left when David became king and the House of Saul was no longer in power. Ziba gave David bad information about the loyalty of Mephibosheth. Ziba told David that he was a traitor and David made a rash decision and gave all of the belongings of Mephibosheth to Ziba !!! In reality Mephibosheth was loyal and a true friend to David.

Also in this chapter David's plan to plant a spy in Absalom's camp comes to fruition. Hushai goes to Absalom and pledges loyalty to him. Absalom asks advice from his closest adviser, Ahithophel. He advises him to sleep with David's concubines for all of Israel to see !  This was a way in those days to show contempt and power to take sleep with the King's women !  So Absalom did.

The one spiritual truth that runs through this chapter is about loyalty !  It is hard to know where people are based on their words and actions. The one that was loyal to David was lied about. The one that was not loyal to Absalom was believed ! The only one that is true and loyal is God and not man !!