Devotional:
But the king replied to Araunah, “No, I insist on buying it, for I will not present burnt offerings to the Lord my God that have cost me nothing.” So David paid him fifty pieces of silver for the threshing floor and the oxen. (2 Samuel 24:24)

David’s pride-laden heart wanted to trust the strength of numbers rather than the strength of God, so he counted his men. David repented of this sin, but confession and forgiveness didn’t nullify the consequences. In the midst of this ugliness of pride and the death it brings, Araunah offered David space and a sacrifice for free. David declined it as he refused to offer the Lord a sacrifice that cost him nothing. Like David, let us be honest about our faults and refuse to lead lives for Christ that do not cost us anything as we wait for the fulfillment of God’s promise of the King who will one day return for us to sit on the throne of David forever.

Pray it:
Father, guard my heart from the temptation of pride and denial. Instead, help me to be humble and open with my life and deny myself as I follow the son of David who carried the cross for me.

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Devotional:
These are the last words of David: “David, the son of Jesse, speaks—David, the man who was raised up so high, David, the man anointed by the God of Jacob, David, the sweet psalmist of Israel. (2 Samuel 23:1) 

Although these are not David’s final words, they are his last inspired song describing the coming Messiah and His righteous reign. Following this prophetic psalm is a catalog of King David’s mighty men. Men who in faith and loyalty risked their lives for the king and kingdom. What about you? Would your name be listed as one of King Jesus’ mighty men/women? Are you willing to risk it all?

Pray it:
Jesus, I thank you for your wonderful work on behalf of your people that is even greater than the work done by David. Bless and guide me as I seek to be one of the ambassadors and messengers you have commissioned to speak about you to this world. Amen.

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Devotional:
“God’s way is perfect. All the Lord’s promises prove true. He is a shield for all who look to him for protection. (2 Samuel 22:31)

David’s song captures his gratitude for the Lord’s deliverance and countless blessings. It is believed to have been written after he had ascended the throne but before his moral downfall. David’s song is practically identical to Psalm 18 with minor variations. David’s beautiful imagery shows us the central role the Lord held in his life. David reminds us that God is always just, and He is true to His character. What song does your heart sing to the Lord?

Pray it:
Father, I praise you for your perfect words and for your perfect work in my life. Thank you for being my protection and refuge at all times, just as you were to David. Amen.

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Devotional:
David asked them, “What can I do for you? How can I make amends so that you will bless the Lord’s people again?” (2 Samuel 21:3)

As we near the end of the book of 2 Samuel, it is important to recognize the remaining chapters are not in chronological order; rather, they serve as an epilogue highlighting various events of David’s reign. Back in the time of Joshua, Israel had sworn an oath to the Gibeonites not to kill them (see Joshua 9:3-17). Saul had broken this oath, and this broken oath caused a three-year famine that had devastating consequences to David’s agricultural society. The famine would cease only when it was atoned for with the bloodshed of seven of Saul’s sons/grandsons. (Seven is a number of completion in the Bible.) Atonement of sin requires a blood sacrifice. Jesus came to be this sacrifice for us so that we would not experience the punishment that we deserve for breaking our oath to God.

Pray it:
Thank you, Jesus, for being the atoning sacrifice for all our sin, for all time. Help me to remember and rejoice in this truth, being assured of the forgiveness of my sin and turning from the sinful tendencies of my heart and temptations of this world through the power of your Spirit. Amen.

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Devotional:
But a wise woman in the town called out to Joab, “Listen to me, Joab. Come over here so I can talk to you.” As he approached, the woman asked, “Are you Joab?” “I am,” he replied. So she said, “Listen carefully to your servant.” “I’m listening,” he said. (2 Samuel 20:16-17)

Wisdom often asserts itself when least expected. We have David’s men in hot pursuit of a foolish but influential threat to the kingdom. Adrenaline is rushing as Joab will go to extreme lengths to regain his military position. And in the middle of the adrenaline rush, the story halts because of a woman. A wise woman. A woman who is not intimidated by reputation, who observes an escalating conflict and decides to have a conversation. Today, let us be inspired by this wise woman. When conflict is escalating and adrenaline is rushing, choose wisdom. And if you don’t know where you can find such wisdom, remember what we read in James 1:5: “Now if any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God—who gives to all generously and ungrudgingly—and it will be given to him.”

Pray it:
Father, thank you for the wisdom that you have given us in your Word and for the wisdom that you offer through it and the counsel of others. Help me to listen to your wisdom and to seek your wisdom each day, and then to act and counsel others accordingly. Amen.

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Devotional:
You seem to love those who hate you and hate those who love you. You have made it clear today that your commanders and troops mean nothing to you. It seems that if Absalom had lived and all of us had died, you would be pleased. Now go out there and congratulate your troops, for I swear by the Lord that if you don’t go out, not a single one of them will remain here tonight. Then you will be worse off than ever before.” (2 Samuel 19:6-7)

It can be so easy to slip into a funk, as our emotions tend to taint reality. David is so focused on his personal loss he doesn’t clearly comprehend the whole picture of what is happening in his kingdom. The equivalent might be the slippery slope of sweatpants, shower-less days, the mindless consumption of Doritos and binge-watching Netflix. We’ve been there. In our pain, sadness and distress, the last thing we desire is to face the world. Joab minces no words with David as he snaps David back into reality and responsibility. There is a time to mourn, but there is also a time to live fully (see Ecclesiastes 3). Be a voice of truth to help others see the bigger picture and listen to the voice of others as well.

Pray it:
Father, help me to both grieve loss well and also to be able to engage the world as you have called me. Give me wisdom to know when the time is to weep and when the time is to act and to help others in this process as well. Amen.

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Devotional:
During the battle, Absalom happened to come upon some of David’s men. He tried to escape on his mule, but as he rode beneath the thick branches of a great tree, his hair got caught in the tree. His mule kept going and left him dangling in the air. (2 Samuel 18:9)

As we recall in 14:25-26, Absalom had great hair, and he took much pride in it. He didn’t have a bad hair day until the day God ordained it! In a sense of poetic justice, it is Absalom’s head of hair that tangles him up in the oak branches, inciting his execution. We thank God for the reminder that what we take pride in can lead to our own undoing! It is His grace to us that we can learn from the heartache of others before it is too late for us. Pride is serious and has serious consequences. Proverbs 16:18 reminds us, “Pride comes before destruction, and an arrogant spirit before a fall.” We literally see this in action in today’s reading.

Pray it:
Father, I confess that I often take pride in things other than you to my own shame and danger. Help me to instead boast only in you and what you have done for me, trusting in you and not in my achievements, possessions or personality. Amen.

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Devotional:
Then Absalom and all the men of Israel said, “Hushai’s advice is better than Ahithophel’s.” For the Lord had determined to defeat the counsel of Ahithophel, which really was the better plan, so that he could bring disaster on Absalom! (2 Samuel 17:14)

Just a few short chapters ago (15:31) David prayed, “please turn the counsel of Ahithophel into foolishness.” Today we read that the Lord did just that, as Ahithophel’s poor advice is heeded by Absaslom. God answers prayers! He answers the prayers of kings and commoners alike. He answers the prayers of the hopeful and the helpless, the faithful and the fragile. He answers when our faith is strong and when our faith is shaky, at best. Keep in mind, He doesn’t always answer “yes,” but He does always answer with what is best and according to His clock.Take time today and lay your heart before the Lord. Wait eagerly and patiently. Watch, listen and see what our faithful God will do.

Pray it:
Father, thank you for the gift of prayer and for hearing my prayers. Remind me of the ways that you have answered my prayers in the past as I now bring to you the burdens of my heart. Amen.

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Devotional:
David and his men continued down the road, and Shimei kept pace with them on a nearby hillside, cursing and throwing stones and dirt at David. The king and all who were with him grew weary along the way, so they rested when they reached the Jordan River. (2 Samuel 16:13-14a)

“Sticks and stones may break my bones but words will never hurt me.” Unfortunately, we learn too quickly that this is untrue. Words hurt, sting and destroy. David experienced this. He was the recipient of a slew of slanderous accusations. He could have chosen to fight back, but in wisdom, he allowed the Lord to fight his battles. How are you doing today? Have you been on the receiving end of harsh, unkind, untrue words? Settle in, talk to God, and ask Him to fight your battles. What a great reminder of how our frivolous words can be costly. Let’s choose our words wisely (James 3:5-6) and bring life to those around us.

Pray it:
Father, use the words that come out of my mouth to build up and help others rather than tear them down. May you, through your Spirit, bring healing and provide strength in my heart and soul when the words of others wound me. Amen.

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Devotional:
But Ittai said to the king, “I vow by the Lord and by your own life that I will go wherever my lord the king goes, no matter what happens—whether it means life or death.” (2 Samuel 15:21)

The toxicity of this royal family never seems to end, and although it’s shocking, it’s no surprise. God already alerted us to this family’s’ fate (11:10-12). In the unfolding of this next drama, David is forced to exile himself from his home and people, but his trust in the Lord remains unshakeable. In seasons of confusion that beget a crumbling life, one of the greatest blessings is loyalty in friendship. Enter Ittai and Hushai. God often uses people to bring about His will and remind us that He is still with us and for us. Who are the Ittai and Hushai in your life? How is your loyalty? Are you loyal to the King when the world is on a rampage to revolt against Him?

Pray it:
Father, thank you for the people who you have placed around me to help me in the midst of the challenges that I face in this fallen world. Help me to resist the temptation to rely only on myself but rather upon your strength that you provide in and through others. Amen.

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Devotional:
So Joab told the king what Absalom had said. Then at last David summoned Absalom, who came and bowed low before the king, and the king kissed him. (2 Samuel 14:33)

Five years passed without David speaking with his son, Absalom, and here Joab seeks to bring reconciliation between David and Absalom. While Joab’s methods and motives for reconciling David and Absalom might not have been pure, this encounter seems to point to a lack of mercy on the part of David and the call for us to show mercy towards others. There is no time like right now to put away our pride and in humility repair our relationships. Verse 14 reminds us that time is fleeting, “We will certainly die and be like water poured out on the ground, which can’t be recovered.” Don’t wait until it’s too late. Say the words and do the things. Be strong and courageous and have the conversations.

Pray it:
Father, I thank you for the mercy that you have bestowed upon me and have shown me in the fact that Christ died for me while I was a sinner. May your mercy towards me provoke me to be one who shows mercy towards others and takes the first step when needed. Amen.

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Devotional:
When King David heard what had happened, he was very angry. (2 Samuel 13:21)

This is a hard chapter to read; God’s Word never softens the severity and depravity of the human condition. What happened to Tamar is heartbreaking and even more disconcerting is the lack of action on the part of her father who had the ability to bring her step-brother to justice. King David was angry but took no action. We don’t know why David did nothing. Maybe it was because his moral failure embodied elements of this horrific crime. Maybe it was because Amnon was next in line to the throne. What we do know is David did nothing! Let us be reminded that when sin grieves and injustice infuriates our hearts, it’s not enough to just embrace the emotion. We are called to action . . . to be doers of the Word and not just hearers (James 1:22).

Pray it:
Father, the sinfulness and injustice that I see in this world breaks my heart, and I know it breaks your heart even more. Help me to be appalled both by the sin around me and the sin within me, and to move from this emotion to action as I seek to put to death sin in my life and promote justice in this broken world. Amen.

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Devotional:
David was furious. “As surely as the Lord lives,” he vowed, “any man who would do such a thing deserves to die! He must repay four lambs to the poor man for the one he stole and for having no pity.” (2 Samuel 12:5-6)

The prophet Nathan tells David that he would be granted forgiveness, yet the heavy consequences for his actions would not elude him. His penalty would be a repayment of fourfold. Sons of David would die, his household would forever be in conflict, his wives would be disgraced, and his sins would be made public. We are forgiven of our sins in Christ, but at times we will still experience the negative consequences of our choices when we fall into sin. How quickly we forget the shed blood of Jesus was not free. Don’t let us cheapen Christ’s sacrifice by willingly continuing to sin. Instead, may the promise of forgiveness we have received propel us forward into obedience and the joy that comes as a result.

Pray it:
Father, thank you for sending Jesus to bear the ultimate penalty for my sins. Guard my heart against sin today, recognizing both the negative impact of such choices in my life now and the preciousness of the blood of Jesus that brings me forgiveness. Amen.

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Devotional:
Late one afternoon, after his midday rest, David got out of bed and was walking on the roof of the palace. As he looked out over the city, he noticed a woman of unusual beauty taking a bath. (2 Samuel 11:2)

David was supposed to be leading in battle, as this was a king’s responsibility. However, he stayed back. His choice and idleness leads to a myriad of mistakes: lustful thoughts, misuse of power, sexual sin and murder. This is an essential reminder to us of the destructive power of temptation and sin. What do you do when you have time on your hands? You might not be coveting your neighbor’s spouse, but you might be mindlessly scrolling on your device just killing time, which might be killing your soul. While technology has simplified our lives, it also has the power to destroy our lives. Be careful and be mindful, especially when you find yourself bored with a few spare minutes.

Pray it:
Father, help me to resist the pull and allure of comfort, ease, and laziness and instead stay diligent in my endeavors to follow you as I walk in this world. Amen.

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Devotional:
David said, “I am going to show loyalty to Hanun just as his father, Nahash, was always loyal to me.” So David sent ambassadors to express sympathy to Hanun about his father’s death. (2 Samuel 10:2)

This chapter reveals another glimpse into the kindness of David. At one point (possibly when David was a fugitive), Nahash had shown kindness to David, and David wanted to return the favor towards Nahash’s son Hanun. However, Hanun chooses to believe the poisonous lies of his court instead of believing David’s honest intent. We can similarly forget God’s kindness to us when we listen to other voices, including our own doubts. Let us heed the warning of carefully weighing whose insights and perceptions you are trusting. Much harm can come when you choose to listen to the wrong voice and a tainted narrative.

Pray it:
Father, you have been so good and kind to me. Remind me of that truth and let that word speak louder than the voices around me and within my own heart that at times tell me otherwise. Amen.

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Devotional:
“Don’t be afraid!” David said. “I intend to show kindness to you because of my promise to your father, Jonathan. I will give you all the property that once belonged to your grandfather Saul, and you will eat here with me at the king’s table!” (2 Samuel 9:7)

In yesterday’s reading, we learned David administered justice and equity to all his people (8:15). In today’s reading, we see David doing just that and making good on his promise to Jonathan by showing kindness to his crippled son Mephibosheth. The parallels in this passage are a beautiful reminder of how our King lavishes His loving kindness on the helplessly broken and hopelessly undeserving. The King of heaven and earth invites us to dine at His table, to sit and be in His presence. Don’t refuse His extravagant invitation! And today, remember to say, “Thank you!” for His generous provision.

Pray it:
Father, thank you for your kindness towards me in Christ in spite of my rebellion against you and inherent weakness because of sin. Help me to show this same kindness to others in word and deed, testifying to your work in my life and displaying it in how I treat others. Amen.

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Devotional:
He placed army garrisons throughout Edom, and all the Edomites became David’s subjects. In fact, the Lord made David victorious wherever he went. So David reigned over all Israel and did what was just and right for all his people. (2 Samuel 8:14-15)

David’s practice as king was to destroy the idolatrous nations who rebelled against his rule. He was victorious in conquering lands from north to south and from west to east. In doing so, his name and fame became great, and his territory increased as the Lord gave him victory after victory. Have you claimed the spaces where you live, work and play for the Lord? Have you removed all non-God-honoring things from your territory? How do you rule the realm in which God has placed you? Do you practice with both justice and equity?

Pray it:
Father, your kingdom and rule is marked by justice and equity. As I pray, “your kingdom come,” enable me to walk in these ways and reflect your rule in my life to the world, crying out for the justice and flourishing that only you can bring. Amen.

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Devotional:
“How great you are, O Sovereign Lord! There is no one like you. We have never even heard of another God like you! (2 Samuel 7:22)

Out of David’s great love for the Lord flows the idea to build Him a permanent dwelling, which to us sounds like quite a noble idea. However, God didn’t need David to build Him new digs nor did He desire it. David’s purpose was to be a fighter, not a builder, and God shows him in the most generous way who the true Builder is as He promises that He will build a dynasty (a house) for David that will endure further. As we see God’s dramatic display of generous, extravagant love in David’s life, take a stroll down memory lane and take stock of how God has fulfilled His promises to you.

Pray it:
Father, everything in this world belongs to you, so no amount of sacrifice or service could measure up to what you already have or reflect how truly awesome you are. Thank you for being a generous God who makes promises and bestows gifts upon His people and has been so good to me. Amen.

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Devotional:
And David danced before the Lord with all his might, wearing a priestly garment. (2 Samuel 6:14)

David again displays that he is a man after God’s own heart in his determination to bring back the Ark of God, which was put aside by Saul. While God had given specific instructions to His chosen people for the transportation of the Ark, David opted to follow the manner in which the Philistines transported it after its capture. David’s disobedience resulted in a stern, costly reminder of the holiness of God. Witnessing the cost of Uzzah’s irreverence deepened David’s holy fear of the Lord. His worship was unrestrained and uninhibited. It didn’t matter who was watching. There is always a reason to worship. When was the last time you dropped to your knees in church or raised your hands because it mattered not who was watching?

Pray it:
Father, you are holy and also so loving, entering into a relationship with me. Help me to honor your name with the reverence you deserve while also having the passion that comes from knowing you personally and experiencing your great work in my life. Amen.

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Devotional:
David was thirty years old when he began to reign, and he reigned forty years in all. (2 Samuel 5:4)

God fulfills his promises to us, but it is always on His timetable. He never wastes moments or opportunities. Many years had passed since Samuel had anointed the young shepherd boy of Jesse’s clan. Yet in those days, weeks, months and years, the Lord was preparing David to be a great leader of His people. It’s easy to say, “God has a plan.” But many times it’s hard to be patient and not give up hope as that planning is unfolding. Rest today knowing God is working. You may not see it, but He is. Do not lose hope. He who promised is faithful!

Pray it:
Father, thank you for your perfect plan, for working according to your timeline and not according to mine. Give me the strength to trust in your plan even when I wish it would work faster or differently. Amen.

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Devotional:
When they arrived at Hebron, they presented Ishbosheth’s head to David. “Look!” they exclaimed to the king. “Here is the head of Ishbosheth, the son of your enemy Saul who tried to kill you. Today the Lord has given my lord the king revenge on Saul and his entire family!” (2 Samuel 4:8)

Baanah and Rechab are rebel assassins. Of their own accord they murdered Ish-bosheth in his home, leaving Mephibosheth, a crippled young man, the heir to the throne. David was enraged as Baanah and Rechab not only murdered in cold-blood but also had the gall to suggest the Lord prompted their actions. Have you ever justified your bad behavior to that of helping God accomplish His purposes? May we never forget that God is holy, and He is powerful enough to fulfill His promises without us and our personal vendettas and agendas.

Pray it:
Father, I know that you are able to work in and through the evil events of this world, that what others meant for evil you work for good. Help me to resist justifying my own sinful desires in this knowledge and instead seek to reflect your kingdom through following your ways each day. Amen.

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Devotional:
When Abner arrived back at Hebron, Joab took him aside at the gateway as if to speak with him privately. But then he stabbed Abner in the stomach and killed him in revenge for killing his brother Asahel. (2 Samuel 3:27) 

An unforeseen ally in Abner positioned David for a more robust kingdom. Yet Joab held contempt for Abner because Abner killed Joab’s brother in battle. When given the opportunity, Joab retaliated and killed Abner. This murder was purely about revenge and was unjust, so David cursed Joab and his descendants. Joab’s one action launched a lifetime of pain and suffering upon those closest to him. Think about how you respond to those who’ve wronged you (whether justly or unjustly). Are you quick to take matters into your own hands and get even with your actions or your words? Take a breath and take a step back. Leave justice to the One who executes it perfectly (Romans 12:19).

Pray it:
Father, rid me of thoughts of revenge and bitterness towards others and instead empower me to trust in you as the one who has the perfect plan to bring justice and to remember your mercy and grace towards me.

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Devotional:
Then the men of Judah came to David and anointed him king over the people of Judah. When David heard that the men of Jabesh-gilead had buried Saul, he sent them this message: “May the Lord bless you for being so loyal to your master Saul and giving him a decent burial. May the Lord be loyal to you in return and reward you with his unfailing love! And I, too, will reward you for what you have done. (2 Samuel 2:4-6)

When the men of Jabesh-gilead made the decision to reclaim Saul’s body and give him a proper burial, it was with no other motive than to do the right thing and honor someone who helped them (see 1 Samuel 11). So often we do the right thing when others are watching or when it aligns with our agenda. But these men did what they did…just because, and God saw. What is done with no glory to be gained is certainly noticed by God who loves to bless His children for doing what is right. Don’t be quick to swap earthly recognition for recognition from the One who matters most. The latter is far, far better.

Pray it:
Father, remind me that you are always watching me and to seek to please you in all my actions. Help me not to do good in search of honor in the eyes of others but for the pleasure that comes from following you and walking in your ways. Amen.

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Devotional:
They mourned and wept and fasted all day for Saul and his son Jonathan, and for the Lord’s army and the nation of Israel, because they had died by the sword that day. (2 Samuel 1:12)

One might expect David to rejoice at the death of Saul, a king who was laser focused on his quest to destroy David rather than being a solid leader of his people. But this is not the case. David is undone at the death of Saul because he had been the Lord’s anointed. David’s response reveals the awe and respect he had toward the Lord. Saul made David’s life miserable every time he could, yet the way in which David grieved Saul was another testament of his upright character. We live in a broken world with broken people. Those difficult people often make our lives very hard. How do you respond when your “enemies” get their due? Are you full of gladness or are you full of grace?

Pray it:
Father, help me to love and bless those who I find myself in conflict with and with those who oppose you. May your Spirit lead me to pray for their salvation and transformation and to see each person I encounter as one made in your image. Amen.

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Devotional:
Saul groaned to his armor bearer, “Take your sword and kill me before these pagan Philistines come to run me through and taunt and torture me.” (I Samuel 31:4)

This final chapter is the culmination of a life lived cowardly. Saul lived by the sword and died by the sword. Even in his final moments, he fought for control. Death was to be his way and in his time. This was the tragic end of an unsurrendered life. Interestingly the character foil to Saul is the “valiant” man. Valiant isn’t a word often used today. Valiant is the mark of courage and determination. Valiant is doing what’s right, no matter the cost. Whether or not these men agreed with Saul’s politics, they risked their lives to do the honorable, courageous act of bringing dignity to God’s anointed king and his sons. Today, look for opportunities to not only recognize the valiant but to be valiant (Romans 12:10).

Pray it:
Thank you, Jesus, for not doing what was most convenient for you but was best for me by going to the cross for my sins. When I am tempted to take the easy or the cowardly way, help me to remember your great love for me and instead choose the valiant and brave path you took. Amen.

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