Lessons from King David: Caring for Others

David was king and Saul was long dead, but David had not forgotten him.

David longed to honor King Saul’s family

“One day David asked, “Is there anyone left of Saul’s family? If so, I’d like to show him some kindness in honor of Jonathan.” {2 Samuel 9:1}

David was reminded of Jonathan’s son, Mephibosheth.

Mephibosheth is described as “lame in both feet.” {2 Samuel 9:3}

Mephibosheth comes and bows before King David, but he is clearly nervous. We are told he was “shuffling and stammering, not looking him {King David} in the eye”. He clearly does not have a loot of self confidence because he says, “Who am I that you pay attention to a stray dog like me.?” {2 Samuel 9:8}

Jonathan’s son, Mephibosheth, came to David

But what does David say to him, “Do not be afraid.” {2 Samuel 9:7}

David has no intention of hurting Mephibosheth. Actually, he honors him.

He calls for Ziba, Saul’s right-hand man and says “Everything that belonged to Saul and his family, I’ve handed over to your master’s grandson. You and your sons and your servants will work his land and bring in the produce, provisions for your master’s grandson. Mephibosheth himself, your master’s grandson, from now on will take all his meals at my table.” {2 Samuel 2:9-10}

David had Ziba and his fifteen sons and twenty servants work the land for Mephibosheth, who is clearly unable to do so.

David honored Mephibosheth

But, Mephibosheth isn’t relegated to a far away island. No, he’s given a place at the table with David.

This wasn’t for just one meal, but for every meal.

“And Mephibosheth ate at David’s table, just like one of the royal family…Mephibosheth lived in Jerusalem, taking all his meals at the king’s table.” {2 Samuel 9:12-13}

David could have murdered Mephibosheth and some may have said he was justified so that he could keep his throne.

David could have sent Mephibosheth far away.

David honored Mephibosheth and cared for him

But, David chose to honor Mephibosheth. In doing so, he way paying alligance to his friendship with Jonathan and even to the memory and legacy of his former father-in-law, King Saul.

There are times when we have options in how we react in a situation. Often, the first choice might be to protect ourselves from a perceived threat or prosecution. Only with great thought and prayer, will a better solution present itself to us.

David was faithful to his friendship with Jonathan and honored Mephibosheth. By doing so, he also honored God.

There are times when we really have to search our conscience and find a solution that is out of the box.

How have you honored God by going against convention?

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