[NIV] 17 David took up this lament concerning Sauland his son Jonathan, 18 and he ordered that the peopleof Judah be taught this lament of the bow (it is writtenin the Book of Jashar): - P70
David composes a lament to mourn Saul and Jonathan and teaches it to thosein Judah. The lament calls for nature to grieve by not sending dew or rain. - P71
Itgoes on to remember how loved and respected Saul and Jonathan were andcalls for the women of Israel to weep. David also dedicates a personal stanzato Jonathan, who was like a brother to him. - P71
David could have celebrated Saul‘s death, knowing that this paved theway for him to become the king of Israel. Instead, he chooses to grievepublicly, setting an example for the people of Judah as a leader afterGod‘s heart. - P72
He does not express any anger or resentment but rathershows compassion and love even for the man who wanted him dead.
- P72
God calls us to love our enemies and bless them. This is never easy, especially when those people are actively working against us. - P72
But Christdemonstrated this kind of love on the cross when He pleaded with theFather to forgive those who crucified Him. - P72
Next time we have troubleforgiving those who have hurt us, let us remember the cross of Christ. - P72
We all have an innate desire for that one friend who is particularly spe-cial and will stay by our side no matter what. - P72
Jonathan was that kindof friend for David, so his death is a devastating loss. The two were likebrothers, and they both kept their covenant of loyalty until death sep-arated them. - P72
David is heartbroken, and in his grief pays tribute to hisdear friend through a song of lament. Death is an ugly and unwelcomereality that we all have to deal with at some point. - P72
It can feel nearlyimpossible to come to terms with losing a loved one, but in times ofmourning - P72
we can find comfort in knowing that Jesus is our ever-presenthelp who understands our grief. - P72
Lord Jesus, You demonstrated unconditional love for Your enemies when Youdied on the cross so that we could be reconciled with God. - P73
Please help me tolive out that kind of love in all my relationships. In Your name, amen. - P73
[NIV] 1 In the course of time, David inquired of theLORD. "Shall I go up to one of the towns of Judah?" heasked. The LORD said, "Go up." David asked, "Whereshall I go?" "To Hebron," the LORD answered. - P74
4 Then the men of Judah came to Hebron, and therethey anointed David king over the tribe of Judah. WhenDavid was told that it was the men from Jabesh Gileadwho had buried Saul, 5 he sent messengers to them tosay to them, "The LORD bless you for showing this kindness to Saul your master by burying him. - P74
8 Meanwhile, Abner son of Ner, the commander ofSaul‘s army, had taken Ish-Bosheth son of Saul andbrought him over to Mahanaim.
9 He made him king over Gilead, Ashuri and Jezreel,and also over Ephraim, Benjamin and all Israel. - P75
David and his family settle in Hebron. He is anointed as king over Judah. Davidsends a message to those in Jabesh Gilead, thanking them for burying KingSaul with honor and lets them know he has been anointed as king in Judah.
- P75
Abner sets Saul‘s son Ish-Bosheth
as king over Israel. Only the tribe of Judahis faithful to David. - P75
David‘s time of waiting has finally come to an end. He now takes onthe role and responsibility he was anointed for years ago when he wasa mere shepherd boy in the fields. - P76
Over all these years, God has beentraining him to be the king that Israel needs. - P76
David‘s anointing at He-bron is an affirmation of what God already did through the prophetSamuel. - P76
When God gives us a promise, He often takes us through aseason of waiting before His word is fulfilled. - P76
This season can sometimes be difficult,
painful, and seemingly never-ending.
- P76
We might betempted to think that God has forgotten us, but our God never forgetswhat He has promised. - P76
He is always faithful. - P76
Abner, Saul‘s former army commander, refuses to acknowledge David asking but rather appoints Saul‘s son, Ish-Bosheth, as king over the otherterritories of Israel. - P76
The once united nation now has divided loyalties.
One group follows God‘s anointed king, while the other follows onechosen by man. - P76
God‘s plan will ultimately prevail, but for now, thepeople will suffer the consequences of going against His will. In timesof uncertainty, it is easy to act out of fear and make decisions that bestprotect our own interests. - P76
But when we follow our own desires ratherthan the leading of the Holy Spirit, we can make grave mistakes. - P76
Let ustrust in God by surrendering our selfish desires and embracing His will. - P76
Father, today I surrender my will and desires to You so that I can embrace Your will andYour desires. - P77
Please give me the grace and courage to do what is right even thoughit may not be popular. In Jesus‘ name, amen. - P77
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